Chapter 244

Juan initially tried to deceive himself, thinking Debra’s actions stemmed from jealousy. But as he looked into her eyes, he saw no sign of caring. Everything she did was calculated, designed solely for her own benefit.

“Juan, you’re a businessman, and I am too. You taught me all this,” Debra said, her voice as icy as her gaze.

He couldn’t understand. Even now, he couldn’t fathom why the Debra who had once been devoted to him had changed so drastically. Debra, however, knew precisely why. Her former self, once wholly centered around Juan, hadn't ended well. She vowed never to repeat those mistakes. In her past life, Juan had prioritized profit above all else, disregarding their marital bond and even the child she carried. In this life, she simply employed the same tactics and bested him at his own game. A smile touched Debra’s lips, but her eyes remained devoid of warmth. “The three-month deadline isn’t up yet. Do your best to impress me, and see if I’ll fall in love with you again.”

Juan looked into her icy eyes and felt his heart sink. “Do you hate me so much? Do you have no feelings left for me?”

Debra shrugged. “You’ll have your answer in three months.”

Back at the Nichols residence, Melody couldn’t sleep. She waited in the living room for their return. When Debra and Juan finally arrived, her scrutinizing gaze fell upon them.

“Where’s Hester?” Melody asked. “I sent her to fetch you.”

Juan, holding Debra’s hand, replied wearily, “We came back first.”

“That’s appropriate?” Melody scoffed. “She’s just a young girl. How could you leave her behind? That’s not how I taught you to behave!”

“Grandma, Miss Vargas is an adult,” Juan replied indifferently. Debra felt his grip on her hand tighten. “I’m not obligated to watch over her. My duty is simply to protect you.” She knew Melody was upset only because Juan was treating her well.

Melody’s anger boiled over. “You’re driving me crazy! Go back and find her. Otherwise, don’t bother coming back.”

Normally, Juan wouldn’t disobey her commands, but this time, he took out his phone and dialed Joe’s number. “Go to the Sapphire Hotel and bring Miss Vargas back.”

“Will do,” Joe replied.

Juan hung up and turned to Melody. “Grandma, if you’re still worried, I’ll send a few more people to find her. I guarantee she’ll be home safely within an hour.”

Melody was left speechless. Juan took Debra’s hand and led her upstairs.

Back in their room, Debra sighed wearily. “I’m going to take a shower.”

“Debra,” Juan grabbed her arm, “Grandma means well. If you’re upset, I’ll persuade her to move out.”