Chapter 94

Thea couldn't deny that Madelyn and Emmalie's tactics, while disgusting, were undeniably effective. Emmalie's face paled with anger. Seizing the moment, Thea waved the doctor inside. But Emmalie refused examination, dodging the doctor's hand. "No need," she said. "I just had low blood sugar. I'm much better now."

Thea laughed lightly. "Wow, looks like my doctor's so good, your condition cleared before he even started!"

With so many people present, Emmalie maintained her composure. Clenching her jaw, she sat near Nicolas. "Nicolas, if I feel unwell again, can I call you?"

Throughout the interaction, Nicolas hadn't looked at her. He checked his watch. "I have other matters. Let's get the truth quickly. If he still refuses, hand him to me. I'll handle it."

[The following sentences were unclear and have been omitted or rephrased based on context]:

• of course, had no objections.
• on the other hand, blanched even further.
• mached her t
• She She clen
• fists, her voice trembling.

She clenched her fists, her voice trembling. "Nicolas, you shouldn't bother with such small matters."

Nicolas turned to Thea. "This involves you. What's your plan?"

His piercing gaze made Thea look away. "Mr. Hendrix, if you're willing to help, I'd be honored."

Nicolas, noting her avoidance, narrowed his eyes. "Alright." He signaled his team to leave.

Emmalie called after him, panicking, "Mr. Hendrix!"

Max, calm and gentle, adjusted his glasses. "We appreciate your help, Mr. Hendrix. The Rowland family is grateful. But it might be best to handle this internally. Family matters should stay within the family. I hope you understand." Nicolas smirked slightly. "Are you saying the Rowland family will investigate thoroughly, Mr. Rowland?"

Max's expression darkened, but he forced a smile. "Of course."

Nicolas nodded, glanced at Thea, and left. Thea understood his unspoken message and sighed. 'Some things can't be avoided,' she thought.

Max turned to Emmalie. "Emmalie, come with me to the study."

Chapter 94 (continued)

Though he didn't directly accuse her, his words froze Emmalie. Biting her lip, she followed Max under everyone's wary gaze.

Ivy, initially stunned, quickly recovered and blamed Thea. "Did you really have to push this far? Are you happy now that you've embarrassed the Rowland family?" Thea chuckled. "Mom, that's not fair. I wasn't pushing. Mr. Hendrix insisted on a full investigation. If you're upset, take it up with him. Or I can tell him you think he's meddling. How does that sound?"

Ivy coughed angrily, knowing she wouldn't dare speak to Nicolas that way. She wondered why Nicolas was involved in Rowland family affairs. She considered a connection between Thea and Nicolas, but dismissed it. There was no way Thea could have that kind of influence. It had to be coincidence.

With a glare, Ivy stormed off, leaving Thea alone. Thea went outside and saw a familiar car. After hesitating, she got in. Nicolas sat inside with his eyes closed, tapping his knee. He stopped when she entered. Thea turned away, staring out the window. The atmosphere was tense.

Nicolas broke the silence. "What are your thoughts on last night?"

Thea's hands clenched in her lap. She took a deep breath. "Last night wasn't entirely my intention. I think I can explain."

Nicolas shook his head. "There's no point in revisiting it. How do we resolve it?"

Hearing him, Thea felt bitterness. Even as husband and wife, his cold tone felt like a business deal. She wondered if perhaps she hadn't wanted it to happen, only acting under the influence of the drug. She calmed herself. "Any solution is fine. We're both adults. No need to dwell on it."

Her meaning was clear: she didn't need Nicolas to take responsibility. What happened, happened. They could pretend it never did. Thea thought this would satisfy Nicolas. But his gaze turned cold.

Chapter 94 (continued)

Clenching his fist, his expression darkened. He sneered, repeating her words, "No need to dwell on it, huh?" He turned to look directly at her. Her face was neutral; she nodded slightly. Nicolas felt deep frustration. A complex mix of emotions roiled within him. His voice was icy. "Miss Rowland, since that's how you feel, remember today's words and never cross that line again."

Thea's expression remained neutral; her hands tightened in her lap. She took a deep breath. "I understand, Mr. Hendrix."

Nicolas hummed softly, then told the driver to start. Thea was puzzled. "Mr. Hendrix, where are we going?"

"There's something I need your help with," Nicolas replied, massaging his temples. "You'll understand when we get there."

The car stopped at a luxury mall. Nicolas led Thea into a jewelry store.

Darwin, nervously explained, "Miss Rowland, Mr. Hendrix has a female friend who recently returned to Reasnatan. He rarely buys gifts for women, so he'd like you to help pick one out." Thea understood; it was likely Nicolas' first crush. Sighing inwardly, she controlled her emotions. "Since Mr. Hendrix trusts me, I'll give it a try."

She carefully selected jewelry, asking Nicolas about the woman's preferences as if unbothered. She chose an elegant, expensive sapphire necklace. Price wasn't an issue.

Nicolas told Darwin to take Thea home. Darwin found Nicolas staring at the jewelry. He asked, "Mr. Hendrix, are we heading to Ms. Ralap now?"

"We'll visit," Nicolas said, putting the jewelry away and handing it to Darwin. "But keep the gift. Don't give it to Stephanie." Darwin seemed confused. The real purpose was to provoke Thea, but she didn't care.

Chapter 94 (continued)

She hadn't even asked who the friend was. Darwin knew Thea responded to gentleness, not pressure. This approach had no effect. Swallowing his words, Darwin put away the jewelry. SEND GIFT