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.

I stared into his eyes and felt

evening, I remained close

+25 BONUS

from those around us. In everyone's eyes, my in-laws cherished me, and I had a husband who was regarded as a gentleman, completely devoted to me. My role as Mrs. Hawk was firmly cemented in their

introduced my work into conversations. Despite their personal views, everyone complimented me in Nicholas' presence and politely accepted the business cards I handed out. Nicholas tolerated my behavior

conveyed a mix of

more

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

I couldn't withstand it like Nicholas did, so I quickly left the

a corner to catch my breath and

two women gossiping

a stage for Mr. and Mrs. Hawk to flaunt their love," whispered a woman, her hand covering her

manage to be so lucky?" a

Mr. Fisher, right? He rarely attends these gatherings, but today he showed up here just to take the chance to