Khloe's tone turned cold. Only then did Ethan fully understand her intention.
"I know what to do now."
Ariana had been completely brainwashed by Trey. If they confronted her directly, she would only be defensive and resistant. So the best approach was to separate them first—then let her see the truth for herself.
"Then I'll leave it to you."
"Relax, Khloe. You can always trust my work." Ethan deliberately dragged out his tone, teasing her lightly.
After finishing the serious discussion, Khloe felt a slight sense of relief and couldn't help but tease him back.
"Of course. I've always trusted my judgment—you're quite suited for this kind of work."
"You—"
Ethan was mildly stung by the jab, then suddenly thought of something. "By the way, does Nick know about this?"
No matter how despicable Trey was, there had once been a past between him and Khloe.
Would Nick really not be jealous?
Khloe froze.
At that moment, she suddenly heard footsteps. Looking up, she saw Nick coming down from upstairs.
"I'm hanging up."
She ended the call quickly.
The next second, Nick was already in front of her. His gaze locked onto her face without blinking—probing, searching, intense enough to feel almost scorching.
Khloe didn't dare meet his eyes. She only glanced at him briefly and forced a smile.
"It's late. Don't wait up for me like this anymore."
As she spoke, she reached for his hand, but he tightened his grip slightly and didn't move.
"What is it? I'm so tired. Let's get some sleep."
Her voice was soft, coaxing—but faintly perfunctory.
She tugged him once, but he didn't budge. Instead, he pulled her straight into his arms.
She cut him off coldly.
Then she lowered her head, fists slowly tightening at her sides.
Nick fell silent.
His tall frame seemed to tremble slightly.
Khloe kept her head down, afraid to look at his expression. She was afraid of seeing that trace of disappointment—afraid she would soften if she saw it.
Neither of them spoke.
After a long moment, Khloe turned to leave, but he grabbed her again.
"What exactly is wrong with you?"
"I'm fine. I already said I'm busy with work—you just don't believe me."
She gritted out the words.
The moment she finished speaking, she was pulled forcefully back into his arms.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Billionaire's Match (by Tangy Candy)
Will more chapters be downloaded? It’s been awhile and I’m still seeing chapter 1175....
When will chapter 1044 and more bd downloaded?...
This is the story that I like reading. The heroine got the hold of the situation right away. No humiliation, no injustice, which keep the readers feeling bad all the way while waiting for the right thing to settle in favor of the heroine. Good storyline,congrats writer!...