Chapter 71

Thea furrowed her brows, her expression serious. "Mr. Hendrix," she said, "I've told you many times that I have no feelings for Jake. There's no need to test me like this. Besides, aren't you worried about what others might think? If your father finds out, he might be displeased."

Nicolas lifted his eyelids to look at her. "So, you know it would be bad if this got out. Yet, you insist on staying at Avon Ventures, entangled with those two fools, Jake and Madelyn. Have you considered how others will view me when they find out about our engagement?"

Thea was momentarily speechless, confusion flickering in her eyes. She hadn't thought about it. After all, deep down, she felt this marriage was merely a transaction, and their relationship would never be openly announced. Moreover, her opposition to Madelyn and Jake wasn't due to any feelings for Jake.

Regardless, Nicolas's actions offended her. Her face turned cold, and her tone became considerably chillier. "Mr. Hendrix," she said, "I believe we should have at least a basic level of trust between us. It seems you're unwilling to trust me at all. I'm not going to explain myself any further." With that, she turned to leave.

Nicolas watched her go, a glint of darkness in his eyes.

Not long after Thea left, Darwin entered. Seeing Nicolas's gloomy expression, Darwin sighed helplessly. "Mr. Hendrix, the doctor advised you not to drink."

Nicolas withdrew his gaze, staring at the mess on the table, and smirked self-deprecatingly. "I seem to have made her hate me even more."

Darwin hesitated, then changed the subject. "The arrangements are ready. I'll take you there."

Nicolas nodded and stood up. After walking a few steps, he suddenly asked, "Do you think she still remembers what happened back then?"

Darwin was caught off guard. He cautiously replied, "Even if she doesn't remember everything, she must have some impression of it."

Nicolas chuckled lightly. "She probably doesn't remember much. After all, back then, she was only focused on Jake."

Darwin frowned. "Mr. Hendrix, you've had too much to drink."

Nicolas raised a hand to press his temple. "You're right. Have someone prepare an antidote for my hangover."

Darwin nodded. As he turned to leave, Nicolas called out, "Find a time to prepare a gift for me. The day after tomorrow is Thea's brother Max's birthday."

Darwin was surprised. Nicolas usually avoided such occasions. He wondered why this time.

Chapter 71

Thea returned home, her face still burning—unsure if it was from anger or embarrassment. Just as she was about to wash up and go to bed, her phone vibrated. She saw multiple messages from Joyce:

Joyce: Thea, are you free? Joyce: Are you asleep? Joyce: Going to bed so early! I wanted to chat with you for a bit. Joyce: Come on! Chat with me!

Ever since they exchanged contact information, Joyce seemed to have latched onto Thea, sending her numerous messages every day. Thea didn't mind; in fact, she felt flattered. After all, since turning eighteen, she hadn't had any friends. She had unconsciously stopped making friends. Now, Joyce's sudden closeness brought Thea joy, yet also stirred a sense of melancholy. If Joyce hears the rumors about my past, would she, like the others, keep her distance from me? Thea pondered.