Trouble in Paradise

Claudia rested in Nicholas' embrace, wiping her tears away. Yet, he remained resolute in his decision.

I lost interest in watching further, but I was intrigued by the guy Nicholas had mentioned and his relationship with Claudia.

Would someone as influential as Nicholas even tolerate Claudia mentioning another guy when he wouldn't let me talk to a guy I've known for over 20 years?

Upon reaching Hawk Manor, Claudia quickly exited the car and hurried inside. Rather than immediately following her, Nicholas circled to my side, opening the passenger door and gently helping me with my seatbelt.

"Brenda's presence is unsettling my dad. You must send her away today!" Nicholas muttered.

I only realized then that everyone outside the manor was watching us. He deliberately grazed his cheek against my lips and said audibly enough for others to hear, "Sweetheart, there are a lot of eyes on us. Let's save that kiss for later when we're alone in our room." "You should start the divorce proceedings sooner rather than later. It's for the best," I whispered.

"I paid you over 80 million dollars. Isn't that more than

generous for you to play along? I wouldn't shell out that much even for a top celebrity. What makes you think you deserve it, Ariana?"

Chaster 0041

Nicholas' cold voice brushed against my ear, sending a chill down my spine. Finally, those words escaped his mouth.

Frustration simmered inside me, and I discreetly hit him, though to observers, it appeared to be playful banter between a couple.ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

Brenda finally felt relieved when she saw Nicholas grasp my hand as I got out of the car. She intertwined his hand with mine, patting mine so firmly that it quickly red after just two taps.

"When you didn't return last night, I thought Ari was causing trouble for you again! Nicholas, if this happens again, don't entertain her. We don't need that kind of drama!" Brenda exclaimed.

Nicholas scratched the back of my hand with his index finger and cast a flirtatious glance my way. "Brenda, she's quite the character, and that's good."

Surrounded by onlookers, his subtle actions didn't go unnoticed. When Frances stifled a laugh behind her hand, I was about to pull my hand away in annoyance, but he tightened his grip, saying, "Alright. Ariana's feeling a bit shy now." "Okay, time to scatter. I'm exhausted too. Let them fend for themselves for a while," Daniel said, waving his hand wearily.

I wanted to see Mom off and discuss the money she owed Nicholas, but before I could, he grasped my wrist firmly and dragged me into the room. His face was grave, and he

+25 RONUS

released my hand almost instantly.

"If you're tired of these random interrogations, then stop playing these games with me. Pretending with you is exhausting." Nicholas said.

I felt a pang of sadness as I watched him quickly head to the bathroom to wash his hands.

"How much longer must we continue like this?" I asked, but Nicholas stayed silent. The only sound in the room was the running water.

"I don't love you anymore. And you don't love me!" I couldn't help but stress again. "What's the point of remaining in this loveless marriage?"

In fact, Daniel's health had deteriorated. The maid had just told me he came back from the hospital today. His kidneys were failing and needed frequent dialysis. At best, he might only have a couple of years left.

My heart skipped a beat. Perhaps there was hope for Nicholas and Claudia to be together if they truly loved each other. As long as Daniel was out of the picture, Frances would assume control of the household. I asked tentatively, "Is it a matter of waiting for your father..."