Reclaiming Her Heart

Chapter 489 A Flame of Jealousy

At last, the persistent, searing sensation that had plagued him since his initial encounter with Caterlington became clear to him. It was jealousy. As he listened to his companions recount their lascivious exploits with unfiltered detail, he found the air growing increasingly oppressive.

Sensing his ill temper, Alex nudged his shoulder. "Shall we depart?"

Alex had grown accustomed to their uninhibited discourse. To those on the outside, they appeared to be upstanding citizens engaged in discussions about stocks and business. However, beneath this veneer of respectability lurked less palatable subjects. It wasn't intended to belittle anyone; it was simply a manifestation of human nature, irrespective of one's background or education.

Yet, when Alex suggested they leave, Raymond remained resolutely in his seat. Alex, puzzled, was about to probe further when the door swung open, and Selena entered, sketchpad in hand. Caterlington sprang to his feet. "Selena."

At the sound of her name, he eagerly bridged the gap between them.

"Isn't it rather noisy in here?"

She shook her head and quickly located Raymond, immediately discerning Caterlington's motives.

fine with whatever setting you prefer,

arranged a stool for her, carving out a space in the crowded

a sketch will suffice,

artist of Selena's caliber, sketching was rudimentary; even when exerting significant effort, she could complete a piece in under an hour. Mr. Walsh's concession was likely due to

offered him a grateful

she settled onto the stool and began her sketch, her focus unwavering. The room fell silent momentarily before the others began to tease Caterlington about his newfound interest. "Is

tasteless jokes about Selena. "This lady is a protégé of the esteemed Mr. Butler, so

Butler's student and remembering that she was also Mr. Montague's designer-the jesters fell silent.

this commission, she's done. So, I thought I'd give her a chance to practice with me first. Being able to focus in such a noisy environment

her in his unique way. She returned a fleeting smile before immersing

Caterlington's strategy. It wasn't so much about evaluating her artistic abilities as it was his subtle attempt to court her. By introducing Selena into their circle and publicizing her connection to Mr. Butler, she would become the preferred artist for

the group returned to their drinks, steering clear of the

closely, noting how from the moment she entered, she had been engaged in some form of interaction with Caterlington, sharing knowing smiles. He could feel a sudden surge of anger welling up within him, but he remained silent, gripping his

due to his anticipation of Selena's arrival. "I've always said, someone who'll cheat with you will cheat on you. Cheaters, be they