Chapter 30 Youve been staying at a hotel; my father will eventually figure that out. The house he gave us has been sitting empty. I already had your luggage brought here, Nicolas said casually. Thea considered his words and found them reasonable. She agreed. While staying at a hotel kept her away from the Rowland family, it didnt feel entirely safe. When they arrived, Thea headed toward the guest room with her suitcase. Suddenly, Nicolas took it from her and walked straight to the master bedroom. Thea followed him. Hendrix, it doesnt feel right for me to stay in the master bedroom when youre not here. Theres nothing wrong with it. Youre my wife, legally speaking. This house was given to both of us by my father. You have as much right to it as I do, Nicolas responded calmly He opened the walk-in closet. I had some clothes brought in based on your preferences. If something doesnt fit or you dont like it, toss it. If you need anything else, just let Darwin know. Thea felt a wave of mixed emotions at his thoughtfulness. In the seven years she had been with Jake, he had never shown her even a fraction of this consideration, and Nicolas had done it all so effortlessly. Noticing her silence, Nicolas glanced at her with mild curiosity, Judging by your expression, Jake never did anything like this for you, did he? A bit embarrassed, Thea nodded. Nicolass lips curved slightly into a smirk, and he let out a quiet, mocking laugh. Theas throat felt tight as she pressed her lips together. If he couldnt even handle basic decency as a fiancé, Jakes more useless than I thought, Nicolas remarked, his tone carrying a hint of disdain. A small thrill ran through Thea. The usually cold and distant Nicolas suddenly seemed much kinder, even protective. Later, after her shower, Thea stepped back into the room, surprised to find Nicolas still there. She froze for a moment, then hurried over, lowering her voice and glancing at the ceiling. Hendrix, is your father still monitoring us? Even though she was dressed in pajamas, Nicolas couldnt help but notice her long neck and delicate collarbone. Her face was flushed from the shower, and her clear eyes sparkled as she looked at him. The clean scent of soap lingered on her skin. Nicolass hand tightened briefly, a flicker of something crossing his face as he leaned back. I took care of the cameras earlier. Ive already spoken to my father. Were married now, and he wont interfere anymore. Thea blushed slightly at the mention of their marriage. She straightened up and moved to the other side of the bed. After a brief pause, she asked, So, are you staying here Tonight? She regretted the question the moment it left her lips, feeling like she sounded far too eager. Her heart raced as she waited for his response 11:38 Fri, Oct 25 ? Chapter 30 Yes, Nicolas replied simply, Theas face grew even redder, leaving her momentarily at a loss for words, 69% Just then, Nicolas added. We have a business trip tomorrow. Darwin will come here and pick us up together. Itll save some trouble. Thea felt a sense of relief, though her cheeks still burned with embarrassment. She quickly climbed into bed. pulling the covers over her. Goodnight, Mr. Without Fords surveillance and no cameras overhead, they slept soundly through the night. The next morning. Darwin arrived right on schedule. As they go into the car, Nicolas turned to Thea and said, This trip might last a week or two. If youd rather not go, you can still back out. Really? Thea asked, her heart leaping with excitement. Shed been worried about Jake stirring up trouble after she reported Madelyn. This trip was the perfect escape, and the thought of not having to deal with Jake and Madelyn for a while filled her with unexpected relief. However, to Nicolas, her reaction seemed like hesitation. His eyes darkened a little, and he gave Darwin a signal. Darwin was about to have security remove Theas luggage when she suddenly continued, Mr. Hendrix, Id love to go! If there are more trips like this in the future, please take me along I love traveling for work. Her enthusiastic response caught Nicolas off guard. He looked ather with a slightly puzzled expression. Are you sure? Of course! Thea beamed. Who would pass up an opportunity like this? The security guard quietly returned her luggage to the car. Their destination, Bangolware, wasnt far just in the neighboring state. To avoid the hassle of flying or taking the train, Nicolas had Darwin drive them. It was only a two-hour trip. On the way, they stopped at a convenience store. Thea went in to grab some stuff. Seizing the moment, Darwin glanced at Nicolas. Hendrix, it seems Miss Rowland has really moved on from Jake Nicolas looked away from Thea, his expression unreadable. She is my wife in name, after all. It wouldnt look good if people thought she only married me out of spite. But do you really think seven years of feelings can be forgotten that easily? Darwin went silent/unsure how to respond. Avon Ventures had a small branch office in Bangolware so smal that it was often overlooked. But Nicolas was meticulous. No matter how minor the branch was, he regularly checked on all the businesses under his company. This branch, known as the Virtuex Group, mainly handled partnerships with local vocational schools. For each collaboration, Avon Ventures would send experts to teach at the institutions. Despite its modest size, the Virtuex Group had built a strong reputation in Bangolware over the years. This time, however, Nicolas clause it to stay behind the scenes. Head Darwin escort Thea to tour the company instead. 2/3 11:38 Fri, Oct 25 Chapter 30 Thea, unfamiliar with the business, felt completely out of her depth. She took notes diligently as Darwin explained the companys workings. When Darwins voice grew hoarse, he stepped out to get get some water. Soon after, someone else approached Thea. Without looking up, Thea said, Darwin, you should take a break. Ill try to figure this out on my own Darwins not feeling well. How about I take over the tour? An unfamiliar voice sounded. 69% Thea looked up, surprised. It was one of the employees a man of decent looks, a few inches taller than her, with captivating eyes and the kind of charm that easily drew attention. BUT Thea felt nothing. She smiled politely but distantly. And you are? 3/3