His unwanted wife, the world’s coveted genius by Derk Blaylock

Chapter 44:

Lucas sealed his lips, remaining silent. The room felt colder, yet a subtle softness touched Lucas’ gaze, betraying a fleeting concern.

Harold’s temper eventually subsided, though his breath still came heavily. He looked at Lucas, pausing thoughtfully before saying, “Lucas, let’s make a bet about your relationship with Belinda. We’ll give it one month. During this time, I need your cooperation with my plans and your honest attempt to nurture feelings for Belinda. If, after this period, you still prefer Verena over Belinda, I vow to forever stay out of your love life. However, if that’s not the case, you must end things with Verena and commit to your marriage with Belinda.”

He knew that Lucas had changed fundamentally over the last six years. Old tactics of coercion were bound to fail now, so a less overt method was necessary.

At Harold’s proposition, Lucas furrowed his eyebrows in mild surprise. He hadn’t anticipated such an unusual bet being placed before him.

With a knowing smile, Harold, seeing Lucas’ quiet contemplation, said, “What’s wrong? Are you afraid? Or maybe worried you might end up falling for Belinda?”

was almost laughable. Falling for Belinda? The

and afterward, Harold would withdraw from meddling in his love life. As for harboring any affection for Belinda? That seemed an unlikely outcome. Lucas was confident

Harold said with

home to

distinguished local restaurant

of the restaurant, its emptiness amplifying the impression. It clicked instantly—Ryan had

Thomas,” Ryan greeted as he

in a crisply tailored suit, his hair meticulously styled. He appeared every bit the gentleman as he offered Belinda a seat. To an outsider, he

her true attitude towards Ryan, revealing a trace

his fingers, and the starters were promptly