Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

Chapter 0045

1 first reinforced Nicholas' psychological defenses, then lowered his expectations to gain agreement. True to form, he agreed in a detached tone.

"I wouldn't lay a finger on you again even if you begged me to."

I smiled triumphantly, though inside, I felt less than pleased. My smile faded and I quietly hoped he would keep his promise. What was so hard about taking Claudia to her college? briskly nodded and said, "Deal."

Nicholas shot me a sideways glance, his forehead creased. Make sure she knows I transferred her to a different college for her good."

"Got it."

"She suspects we're still arguing. Let her know we're not." I hummed in acknowledgment.

He paused, then upped the challenge for me, stating, "She's quite sensitive, so be casual in your approach. Don't give her any reason to question!"

I smiled in a detached manner. Nicholas treated me as if I didn't matter. He had finally shown his hand.

into his eyes and felt a chill

evening, I remained close to

+25 BONUS

husband who was regarded as a gentleman, completely devoted to me. My role as Mrs. Hawk was firmly cemented in their hearts and

everyone complimented me in Nicholas' presence and politely accepted the business cards I handed out. Nicholas tolerated my behavior and remained composed. Since love eluded me, I pursued a different route to secure what I believed was rightfully mine. I threw myself into growing

conveyed

more intense, almost

like the way a woman looked at a man she desired, rather than the

scrutiny made my skin crawl. I couldn't withstand it like Nicholas did, so I quickly left

hid in a corner to catch

two women gossiping about

Mr. and Mrs. Hawk to flaunt their

but how did Mrs. Hawk manage to be so

He rarely attends these gatherings, but today he showed up here just to take the