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?”

the idea was almost laughable. Falling for Belinda?

your bet,” Lucas confidently said. Just a single month, 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

said

home to

local restaurant where she had agreed to meet Ryan

Belinda noticed the vastness of the restaurant, its emptiness amplifying the impression. It clicked instantly—Ryan had reserved the entire venue just for this

Thomas,” Ryan greeted

He appeared every bit the gentleman as he offered Belinda a seat. To an outsider, he

gaze briefly betrayed her true attitude towards Ryan, revealing a

his fingers, and the starters were