Chapter 155: Duties of a Wife

Nathaniel was still awake when Cecilia returned to Daltonia Villa. Dressed in dark pajamas, he sat on the sofa, his gaze fixed on her.

"Did you have fun today?"

"Kind of," Cecilia replied.

Nathaniel rose, his imposing figure instantly blocking much of the light. "I heard from Stella that you were planning to sell me for ten billion."

Cecilia choked back a sob. He clearly knows what I said; why is he asking?

"I didn't."

"Is that so?" Nathaniel leaned closer.

Cecilia instinctively stepped back. "First of all, Stella and I aren't on good terms. How could I ask her for ten billion to sell you? Besides, I didn't even accept your mother's check. Why would I do this now?"

Nathaniel remained unconvinced. He knew Stella wouldn't have let him witness the day's events. Cecilia must have already learned about Stella's actions. He chose not to confront her.

"Is there anything else?" Cecilia found herself pressed against the wall. Nathaniel watched her cautious demeanor, the thought of intimacy nearly overwhelming him.

"How's your money situation?"

Cecilia hadn't expected this. "It's not ready yet."

"Then consider my suggestion," Nathaniel said, his voice heavy. "We are married. If you fulfill your wifely duties, there's no need to return the betrothal gift."

Duties of a wife? Her face flushed. Before she could speak, Nathaniel's hand gently caressed her cheek. "How about one hundred million per encounter?"

Cecilia's mind went blank. One hundred million at a time? Who does he think I am? She was reminded of his disregard for her resistance that first time.

She gently pushed him away. "Not so great." She quickly ascended the stairs, anger bubbling. She locked her door.

Nathaniel was left alone, confused by her anger. He found Cecilia the most easily angered woman he knew; she would flare up unexpectedly and dare to show her displeasure – something no other woman would do.

Upset, Nathaniel went to the Elite Club. The manager quickly assembled the most attractive and intelligent women for his selection. Nathaniel sat solemnly, surveying the rows of women, yet feeling no interest.

"Mr. Rainsworth," a seductive woman approached, attempting to ingratiate herself. He watched coldly, his mind filled with images of Cecilia's anger. Her touch caused him overwhelming disgust.

"Get lost!"

Soon, the women left, deflated. Nathaniel sat alone. Then, a woman named Nancy, using the wine service as a distraction, slipped into the room and knelt before him.

He wasn't surprised to see fear and hurt in her eyes. "Who are you?"

Nancy was startled. "I—I'm Nancy. Have you forgotten me?"

Nathaniel had an exceptional memory, but he didn't remember those irrelevant to his life or work. Seeing his expression, Nancy realized he'd forgotten. She recounted their past encounter.

"You asked if I'd serve you without pay. I agreed, and you said I'd work at the Elite Club without salary."

Nathaniel remembered. "Do you regret it?"

Nancy shook her head anxiously. "No, but please have mercy. Let me go. I don't want to entertain guests."

Nathaniel was puzzled. Who had allowed her to do that?