Married a Secret Billionaire novel Chapter 1431

Renee stood there, utterly shocked by Toph's unexpected reaction. She had always viewed him as the wealthy, naive son she could easily manipulate.

In their previous conflicts, no matter how heated they became, Toph would invariably return to her like an obedient puppy whenever she shed a tear and showed vulnerability.

However, something in his eyes had changed this time. Panic briefly gripped her, but she regained her composure and continued crying.

"Toph, what am I to you? I have realized my mistake and genuinely want to be with you. You're an exceptional man, and I should cherish you—"

"That's right, I'm quite exceptional." Toph forced a smile. "I must have seemed like a fool to you, huh?"

"Toph!"

"Do you have any idea what I've been through?" He locked eyes with her. "I felt like I was losing my mind. No matter what I attempted, there was always a voice in my head saying, 'You can't do it...'"

"Renee, I started having nightmares. I'd wake up in the middle of the night and couldn't fall back asleep. I was exhausted but couldn't find rest. I isolated myself in my room, avoiding everyone, and I even neglected my comic."

He emphasized the last part. "But during all this time, you didn't even call."

Renee's expression changed. "Toph, I-I was busy."

"Busy? So busy that you couldn't even send me a text?" he asked.

"No!"

"Toph, I'm afraid you're not the one I truly love," he said with a pitiful smile, sadness clouding his eyes. "You see, you love wealth and status, the power to crush those you dislike. But do you know what I want?

"All I want is a peaceful life, to be with the people I love, and to pursue my passions."