Chapter 64

Jake looked significantly haggard, dark circles under his eyes. He forced a smile, striding toward Thea and gazing at her with deep affection.

His voice was gentle. "I'm here to apologize. I was wrong about everything. Madelyn and I have broken up, and I'll treat you well from now on. Please don't be angry. If you don't believe me, I swear I'll never see Madelyn again."

Thea lowered her eyes, smiling faintly at the bouquet. Three months ago, she would have been moved to tears and immediately agreed.

Jake had made an effort; the flowers were the same ones he'd used years ago when he'd confessed his love. Trying to win me over with memories? How laughable. The truth is, I've fallen out of love with him, she thought.

He shoved the flowers into her arms, seemingly convinced she wouldn't refuse.

Thea stepped back, her gaze icy. "Mr. Hendrix, what do you mean by this?"

Jake's eyes widened. "I've apologized and promised not to see Madelyn again. Isn't that enough?"

Thea shook her head. "We have no relationship. Regardless of your situation with Madelyn, don't pretend it's for my sake."

She took the flowers and tossed them into a nearby trash bin. "I believe once unfaithful, always unfaithful."

Jake clenched his jaw, catching up to her. "Thea, what will it take for you to stop making a scene?"

Thea turned, her expression strange. "What scene? I'm speaking the truth. Don't act like I've let you down. You ended our relationship. There's no rule saying I have to wait for you."

Jake was speechless, his anger replaced by helplessness. "Please, don't do this. Can't we be together like we used to?"

Thea had a thought. "We can, but tell me: are you making amends because you still have feelings for me, or because of Madelyn?"

Meeting her cold gaze, Jake felt guilty. His eyes flickered. "After all these years, we naturally have feelings. Madelyn is pitiful. If you and I are together, you get your wish, and my dad can let go of Madelyn. It's good for everyone."

Thea scoffed. As expected, it's still about Madelyn, she thought. She shook off his hand. "Sorry, but there's no possibility for us."

Thea turned to leave. Jake stared at her retreating figure, reluctance in his eyes.

Memories of Madelyn's words flooded his mind: "I heard Miss Rowland has someone possibly even during your relationship. But it's just a rumor. I don't think someone like Miss Rowland could easily let go of her feelings for you. But if there"

Turning the corner, Thea bumped into

Chapter 61

He stood silently by a window at the end of the hallway. His tall, elegant figure was silhouetted against the light, exuding a chilling aura. A cigarette hung between his perfectly manicured fingers, smoke curling around him.

"Mr. Hendrix?" Thea asked, surprised.

Nicolas turned, his expression indifferent. He nodded slightly.

He walked slowly toward her, his tone cold. "The situation is resolved. You did well."

A wave of unexpected joy washed over Thea; she smiled.

He continued, "Keeping you at Avon Ventures is a waste of talent."

Thea's heart sank. He can't be firing me, she thought.

The passage has been cleaned up for grammar, punctuation, and flow. Some minor stylistic choices were made to improve readability. The abrupt ending suggests more text is missing.