a was stunned by Jakes words, staring at him in disbelief. But instead of breaking down, as he seemed to expect, her face hardened with anger. realize how Her chest heaved as she struggled to contain her rage. Through gritted teeth, she spat, Jake, do you even rea revolting you are? The warmth instantly disappeared from Jakes face. He stood up, now looking at her with a cold indifference. Madelyn was right. Youre still so stubborn, he snapped. Let me make this simple go home and get ready for the wedding. As long as you stay out of Madelyns way, I wont press charges, and Ill make sure you live comfortably once were married. Thea smirked, about to respond, when a sharp siren echoed from outside. A rush of footsteps followed, and moments later, someone burst into the meeting room. Hendrix, someone reported Thea for stealing company secrets. The police are here, the person said urgently. Thea stood up calmly, not even glancing at Jake, whose face had turned even grimmer. See that? she said coldly, Your promises mean nothing. In front of her colleagues, Thea was led out to a police car, her departure drawing attention from everyone in the building. Phones were raised as people took pictures, their eyes filled with judgment and contempt. Thea seared that humiliating moment into her memory. Fortunately, the report was just that; they had no solid evidence against her. After hours of questioning at the police station, Jake came to bail her out in the evening. As they drove, Thea stared out the window, her expression icy and distant. Jake softened his tone, trying to break the tension. Let me take you out for dinner. Then Ill drop you off. If you dont want to go home, you can stay at the Hendrix family house. How does that sound? Thea didnt waste time with him. It was Madelyn who called the police, wasnt it? You bailed me out because youre worried Ill retaliate against her, right? Jake froze. His grip tightened on the steering wheel, his voice growing impatient. Madelyn only called the police because you made everyone work overtime. She was just trying to ease the situation. Besides, I didnt press charges, so whats the harm? Youre the one who caused this mess in the first place, so dont blame her. Is that so? Theas voice dripped with sarcasm. No matter how you spin it, the damage Madelyn caused me is real. Ive already told you, since you like her so much, Id step aside. But why are you still trying to have it both ways? Youre insisting on marrying me because, deep down, you think Madelyns background isnt good enough for your public image. Isnt that right? Jake suddenly slammed on the brakes, the tires screeching against the road. Gripping the steering wheel, he turned to her with disgust. You still dont see your own issues, do you? I regres everything. I shouldve just left you at the police station. Without a word. Thea stepped out of the car, her face cold and readable. Through the window, Jake saw her eyes empty, emotionless. Her voice was low but firm. Even if you try to ruin me completely, I wont be asking for Thu, Oct. Chapter 15 味多42%, A wave of irritation and unease swept through Jake as he cursed under his breath, calling her crazy, before speeding off. Thea stood alone as the sky grew darker, the air heavy with dampness, Moments later, a drizzle began to fall. A minute later, the rain intensified. Thea gritted her teeth and made up her mind to make that phone call. Meanwhile, Nicolas sat in a private room, staring absentmindedly at the rain pouring outside the window. Just then. Darwin opened the door, and Nicolas glimpsed a familiar slender figure stepping in. Thea was shivering slightly, though it wasnt clear if it was from the cold or fear. She accepted a towel from the waiter and wrapped it around herself, warming up a bit. Nicolas didnt seem surprised by her appearance. He looked at her with calm, waiting for her to speak. Thea thought about what shed been through these past few days. Feeling a mix of heartbreak and guilt, she broke the silence. Hendrix, Ive let you down. Nicolas had given her a chance, but she realized she hadnt made any progress. Even though she had identified the buyer from the rival company, the trail had gone cold. The contacts phone was disconnected, and her investigation into their social connections revealed that the person had resigned and disappeared over a month ago. She had no idea if Madelyn would report her again. Jake wouldnt come to her aid, and the Rowland family certainly wouldnt help her. The thought of spending over twenty years in prison weighed heavily on Theas mind. After much contemplation, she realized Nicolas was her only hope, Nicolas asked, If thats true, why come to me? His tone was measured, and his eyes showed little coldness. Thea clenched her fists, summoning her courage. She met his gaze and said earnestly, I want to propose a deal. I know Stefan has been pressuring you to marry. I can be your contract wife to ease your stress. Her voice trembled slightly. But I wont interfere with your personal life. Ill stand by your side, work hard, and do whatever you need. I just ask that you protect me this time. I dont want to go to jail. Fear laced her final words. The room grew silent, the weight of the moment hanging between them. Though only five minutes passed, it felt like an eternity to Thea. Her heart sank as slae lowered her head, thinking bitterly that someone like Nicolas would never agree to such a bold offer. Then, to her surprise, Nicolas broke the silence. Are you sure about this? Theas head snapped up, hope flickering in her chest. He hadnt outright refused there was still a chance. Yes, Im sure. Hendrix, if youre concerned, we can sign a contract. I promise I keep everything professional during this time, she said. Nicolas studied her for a moment before responding. Theres no rush. But first, show me youre serious, Thea hesitated, unsure what he meant by that. But she still nodded, determined. Dont worry. The waiter escorted her out, and once the door closed, Nicolass expression darkened. He glanced at Darwin, who stood by, and gave a quiet chuckle. Youre getting bold, making decisions for me now, huh? 20:15 Thu, Oct 24 Chapter 15 日9:42 Darwin wiped the sweat from his brow and replied earnestly, Mr. Hendrix, I only thought you might consider Miss Rowlands offer. Before Nicolas could respond, a sudden loud crash outside the room startled them. Voices followed, filled with alarm. Nicolass eyes narrowed. Without a word, he quickly strode out to see what had happened.