Reclaiming Her Heart

Chapter 490 The Debt Remembered—Five More Times

The sincerity in Raymond's demeanor almost had Alex second-guessing himself. Could it be possible that Raymond truly held no feelings for the woman in question?

"Very well, if it's merely a fleeting affair, stop this melancholic drinking," Alex advised.

"I'm not wallowing in self-pity," Raymond retorted, his gaze once again drifting towards Selena.

She was a considerable distance away, her head bowed in deep concentration, seemingly oblivious to the surrounding clamor. A profound sense of melancholy began to creep into Raymond's heart.

"She's not that extraordinary, anyway," Alex couldn't resist a smug grin, his lips curling into an amused smirk.

Regaining his composure, he turned back to Raymond, his expression stern. "Indeed, New York is teeming with women far more beautiful and talented than her."

"Indeed," Raymond agreed, the heaviness in his heart deepening.

on the table and leaned back, deliberately avoiding Selena's sight. Unperturbed by the world around her, Selena continued to paint until her masterpiece was complete, then proceeded to pack up her easel. Caterlington

"Indeed," she confirmed.

her to be this exceptional.

I am happy," she

I've done you a significant favor. Merely two pieces, don't you think I'm being shortchanged?"

a promise. "Whenever you require a painting, I

pulled her into a warm embrace. "It's settled then.

Walsh, that won't be necessary," Selena gently extricated herself from his hold. "And you needn't go out

seek companionship elsewhere. Caterlington glanced at Raymond, who was lurking in the dimly lit corner, his expression concealed in

I won't insist. You may leave at your leisure," he

her easel. As she neared the end of the hallway, the sound of footsteps echoed from behind. Assuming it was Caterlington trailing her, she was about to speak when her wrist was abruptly seized, and she was yanked into a

and her eyes met Raymond's. The room was dimly lit, the only source of light being

"Mr.

marks. Even the old ones