The Mysterious Billionaire and His Substitute Bride (Ethan and Janet)

Chapter 1304 Being Rejected

Ian's complexion drained of color as Laney interrogated him.

Desperate to explain himself, but noting the disappointment in her eyes, he realized further words were futile. "It was me," he admitted.

Laney's voice was sharp and distinct as she asked, "Why? Why did you do that?"

In a hushed tone, Ian replied, "Mrs. Harding, I merely want to remove obstacles for you. Since leaving Garrett, your life has flourished. No longer bound by the Harding family, you've built a career you love and embraced a life of freedom and joy. Isn't that a blessing?" Property © NôvelDrama.Org.

His eyes locked onto hers, his expression solemn. His voice was soothing, yet seemed to mask a torrent of emotion. "Had I not intervened, Garrett would have pursued you relentlessly, causing you trouble and casting you back into the depths of despair."

Laney averted her gaze, her voice trembling. "Don't do this again. You're crossing the line between assistant and employer."

"Oh, my lady!" Ian sighed, resigned. "Why don't you understand?"

Her heart pounded in time with his words. "Understand what?"

His tender, steady voice whispered into her ear. "Laney, I've stood by your side all this time, doing everything in my power for you, because I love you."

Laney's entire being froze.

As Ian reached for her hand, she snapped back to

reality, stepping away from him.

In her retreat, she knocked over the medicine box, its contents scattering across the floor.

The tincture of iodine spilled, releasing a faint alcoholic aroma.

Disappointment clouded Ian's features at her reaction. "Laney..."

Laney halted him, her voice a flurry of emotion. "I'm sorry, I can't accept your feelings."

His eyes downcast, Ian remained silent for a moment. Then, discarding his crestfallen demeanor, he offered a gentle smile. "I understand, Mrs. Harding. Fear not, I'll strive tirelessly until the day you're ready to accept me."

Laney was unsure of how to navigate the situation.

He hastily gathered the fallen items and made a hasty exit.

Ian watched her frantic departure, his eyes brimming with unspoken disappointment.

It was clear to him that Laney still harbored feelings for Garrett. Her excitement upon seeing him, followed by her fury at his violent actions, were unmistakable signs.

Love stirred emotions, while indifference bred a steady, unchanging state.

In Ian's presence, Laney had always maintained a calm, composed demeanor, revealing no emotions.

Dinner preparations unfolded in a heavy silence.

Laney couldn't fathom how to interact with Ian. She forced down a few bites of food, but the stifling atmosphere soon became unbearable. Setting her chopsticks aside, she decided to clean up the trash can.

Ian had always taken care of such tasks. Observing her actions, he stepped forward to intervene. "Let me handle it, Mrs. Harding."

"It's okay, I can manage," Laney replied.

"No, please let me," Ian insisted.

As their conversation continued, both reached for the garbage bag simultaneously.

For a moment, they froze in place.

Their fingertips grazed one another, amplifying the already palpable awkwardness.

Laney jerked her hand back as if stung, snatched the garbage bag, and darted out the door.

Stepping outside and inhaling the crisp air, Laney's heart, which had been racing from the awkward encounter, slowly regained its composure.

Laney gazed skyward, wondering how to face Ian upon her return.

Truth be told, she harbored no romantic feelings for him.

In her eyes, Ian was family, a friend—but never a lover.

Sighing deeply, she prepared to approach the dumpster when she noticed a new family moving in next door.

Upon closer inspection, her expression darkened.