Chapter 49

Nicolas’s expression didn’t soften much. He looked at Thea, his tone devoid of emotion. “Don’t let anything like this happen again.”

Thea nodded. Jake’s words and Nicolas’s reaction hung over her like a thick fog.

Soon, Thea let out a bitter laugh inwardly. The strange feelings she’d experienced over the past few days finally made sense. She had unknowingly developed feelings for Nicolas that she shouldn't have. She wasn't surprised by her thoughts. Nicolas was strong and lacked the arrogance of other Hendrix family members.

During her time with him, she had indeed learned a lot. He seemed to embody many positive traits. But now, it seemed wise to stop before things escalated.

Thea comforted herself with this thought, but a pang of sadness remained.

Nicolas was unaware of Thea’s inner turmoil. He felt a level of frustration he’d never experienced before. His gaze toward Thea grew colder. “Unless it’s urgent, just head back,” he said. “I’ll explain things to Dad. You don’t seem yourself. Take some time to adjust; work is going to ramp up soon.” His tone was purely business. Thea felt completely deflated.

When she finally lifted her head, Thea managed to compose her expression. “Okay, got it, Mr. Hendrix.”

Once home, Thea allowed herself only half an hour to wallow. She had more important things to focus on. The Rowland family, the Hendrix family, and Nicolas were unreliable. She needed to think about her future.

If her engagement with Nicolas ended, Thea didn't want to be a victim.

Just then, a college friend contacted her. “There’s a yacht alumni gathering the day after tomorrow. Are you going?”

Her friend teased, “I bet Jake will accompany you, right?”

Thea didn’t share her problems with Jake. Instead, she smiled and redirected the conversation, asking about the time and place.

An alumni gathering might seem insignificant, but her university was one of the best in the country, and the connections made there could be invaluable. She needed to prepare.

The day arrived, and Thea attended the event. It was grand, and she overheard two people discussing the organizer:

“Jake really went all out. No surprise, he’s from the Hendrix family.”

“Yeah, the Hendrix family’s wealth is beyond imagination, but it makes sense. After all, he’s cultivating high-caliber talent, giving him a head start on networking.”

“What I’m curious about is, who is that woman by his side? She doesn’t seem like Thea.”

“You might not know, but Thea’s recent drama has been making waves in Key Biscayne. Apparently, she offended the Hendrix family with her bad temper, and Jake has found a more attentive and gentle secretary.”

“Thea’s jealousy is notorious, and she’s been tormenting others. I have contacts with the Hendrix family, and it sounds like their marriage is off.”

“What a shame! This tells us that women shouldn’t harbor too much jealousy.”

“Then let me ask you, if your wife cheated on you, would you be cool about it? Would you just let it go, divorce her, transfer the house and car to them, and even give your blessings for their engagement? Maybe even act as the wedding MC?”

At this, Thea walked away, swirling her glass of red wine.