The Jilted Heiress' Return To The High Life

Chapter 1701:

He turned down Franco’s offer with courtesy, all while quietly cutting through the purpose behind it.

Corrine, while not fully aware of the undercurrents, felt the distinct tension in their exchange. She approached with Nate, taking his arm. “Leif, meet my fiancé, Nate Hopkins.”

Introducing Nate, Corrine softly pulled on his sleeve and murmured, “Leif Mendoza, a dear friend.”

Nate’s expression grew guarded as they were introduced. Their eyes locked, sparking an unspoken challenge. After a brief moment, Leif was the first to extend his hand. “Mr. Hopkins, your reputation precedes you.”

Nate’s response was a tight-lipped smile as he extended his hand in greeting. As they shook hands, there was a subtle but deliberate measure of each other’s grip—a quiet test of strength between them.

in the veins of their clasped hands and mused about the frightening intensity of jealous men. Yet, he found

in his typically detached tone. “Corrine speaks often of how you all have cared for her as if she were

heard that, he dipped his head, doing his best to hide the grin

close male friend who stayed near Corrine. But if he were

Nate’s remarks. “Thank you for your generous offer, Mr. Hopkins. I must attend to some urgent

𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀

Corrine a meaningful look before

crumbled slightly. He gritted his teeth, frustrated by Nate’s ruthless tactics. Since he couldn’t lash out in front of Corrine, Nate had used the handshake to assert control, and he did it with surgical precision. Now, Leif’s hand still ached from the

Leif couldn’t help but question how

left, Franco briefly observed the dynamics between Corrine and Nate. Sensing Nate’s palpable tension, he chose to extricate himself. “I think I’ll head out now,” he announced, quickly

without warning? Couldn’t you have told me beforehand?”