Chapter 194

A complex expression clouded Nicolas's eyes, and he exhaled heavily. He couldn't understand Thea's stubbornness. Was it distrust? Or did she not love him and want to avoid deeper involvement? he wondered.

"What's your plan? How do you intend to resolve this?" Nicolas asked.

Noticing the discontent in his tone, Thea's body trembled slightly. She stared at her feet, struggling to explain, but enthused, she said, "I acted impulsively and unintentionally caused trouble, Mr. Hendrix. But Joyce is my friend, and I couldn't ignore her." Nicolas's expression darkened.

From the driver's seat, Darwin interjected, "Mrs. Hendrix, Mr. Hendrix didn't mean it that way. He was worried about you, which is why he rushed back."

Thea nodded politely. "I understand. From now on, I'll find solutions beforehand and won't hold you back, Mr. Hendrix."

She sensed Nicolas's frustration at not being able to stay in Silvercreek with Stephanie. She wasn't unaware of this, but he seemed even more displeased.

"Mr. Hendrix, if there's nothing else, I won't disturb you," Thea said, opening the car door. To avoid angering him, I should leave, she thought.

Darwin was speechless, unsure how to intervene.

Before Thea could step out, Nicolas grasped her wrist firmly. Losing her balance, she stumbled into his chest. The familiar scent enveloped her, leaving her flustered. She looked up, meeting his cold yet handsome gaze. "I'm sorry about your injury, Mr. Hendrix," she said cautiously.

Unbeknownst to Thea, she seemed endearing to him.

"It's nothing," Nicolas said, his expression a mix of emotions. He sighed, seemingly resigned. "Thea, what am I going to do with you?"

His voice inexplicably struck a chord in her heart. Thea's ears flushed, and she averted her gaze, not wanting him to see her thoughts. She liked him, but he loved Stephanie. This contract marriage would end, and she didn't want to be caught in a love triangle. Quickly changing the subject, she asked, "Mr. Hendrix, anything else to discuss?"

Nicolas's deep-set eyes lingered on her for a moment before he spoke calmly. "Ian is coming from Bangolware. Dad wants us to return to the Hendrix residence together." Thea nodded and closed the car door. She was still his wife, and he'd been injured saving her in Silvercreek. She should cooperate with the Hendrix family's arrangements.

But recalling their last visit to Bangolware, and Nicolas taking her to dinner with Ian, she remembered she hadn't actually met him. Ian clearly hadn't been pleased with her presence, and she worried her appearance might displease him.

Chapter 195

The scene from Max's wedding had likely become a topic of gossip in Key Biscayne. Nicolas, seemingly able to read her thoughts, said, "Don't be nervous. I told you, Ian is easy to get along with. He just doesn't know you well yet."

Despite his reassurance, Thea remained tense. Ian was an aloof, old-school artist with a strong sense of reputation and blunt speech. Unfortunately, Thea's reputation wasn't favorable. Nicolas's hand covered hers, the warmth sending a shiver down her spine. "I'm here for you," he said.

Thea stared at him, her heart skipping a beat. She believed no one could resist him, but then thought of Stephanie. Quietly withdrawing her hand, she nodded and looked out the window, avoiding implications.

Nicolas's mood darkened as the sky outside grew gray. He closed his eyes. "Feelings can't be forced. Why make things difficult?" he thought.

The car reached Sunnyend Manor. Ford, the butler, was waiting. "Mr. Hendrix, Mrs. Hendrix. Stefan is in the backyard listening to an opera with Mr. Davis. I'll take you there."

As they walked, Ford added, "Ms. Davis has also arrived."

Thea looked at Nicolas. Even knowing his nature before marrying him, it bothered her that such a man wouldn't lack admirers. Thinking of women likely infatuated with him, she felt wary. Another cunning rival? she wondered.

Ten minutes later, they arrived. "Once blossomed in purple and red, everything has now fallen into disrepair" As they entered, the opera grew clearer.

Thea saw the opera singer performing on stage, accompanied by musicians. Stefan and Ian sat on a balcony, enjoying the opera with coffee. Next to them sat a graceful young woman in a light green dress. Though Thea couldn't see her face clearly, her posture suggested good manners. That must be Ms. Davis.

Ford approached Stefan and whispered something. The three turned to look at them.

Stefan smiled. "You've arrived."

Servants brought chairs, and Thea and Nicolas settled beside Ian and the young woman. To avoid awkwardness, Nicolas sat away from the young woman; Thea sat beside her, getting a closer look at her features.

She was lovely, with an elegant demeanor and graceful air. The young woman smiled warmly and nodded. Thea returned the gesture. Stefan introduced them. "Thea, this is Ian, a dear friend. The lovely lady is his granddaughter, Winnie Davis."

Thea greeted them. With Stefan hosting, the atmosphere was pleasant.

Ian said, "I thought Nicolas's wife would be Emmalie. I've met her; she's quite astute, which I don't like." Emmalie had often visited Ian, seeking advice, and her unfriendly behavior toward the staff had left a bad impression.

"Though Thea doesn't have the best reputation, I don't judge by rumors. The last time Nicolas brought you, I misunderstood. Please don't hold it against me," Ian added.

Thea replied, "It's good to clear up the misunderstanding. I should apologize. Everyone says you have a terrible temper. If I hadn't met you, I might have believed those rumors." Winnie laughed. "My grandfather's bad temper…"

Nicolas's phone buzzed. He stepped aside to answer, his expression changing dramatically.