Bullied and Dumped, But She Won in the End (Adriana) novel Chapter 149

**When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen by Kael Niro Senn**
**Chapter 149: That’s Very Noble of Him, Isn’t It?**

Gary’s frustration boiled over, his eyes igniting with a fiery red hue that mirrored his inner turmoil. He reached for the box of condoms that Irene had carelessly stashed by the bedside, a decision fueled by impulse and desperation.

In an unexpected twist, Irene swiftly intercepted his hand, her movements sharp and decisive as she tossed the condoms aside, sending them tumbling into the oblivion of the room.

Gary halted, confusion knitting his brow. “What does that even mean?” His voice was laced with a mix of bewilderment and hope.

With a playful grin that lit up her face, Irene leaned closer, her arms wrapping around Gary’s neck as if to draw him into her world. “I’ve made up my mind. We’re going to give it one last shot at having a baby, even if I’m not exactly in my prime anymore. Let’s see if luck is on our side this time…” Her words danced in the air, filled with a tantalizing promise. But then, her tone shifted slightly, a hint of seriousness creeping in. “But I have my doubts about my fertility. And if I can’t conceive naturally, don’t even think about suggesting in vitro fertilization. That’s simply out of the question…”

Time seemed to freeze for Gary as he absorbed her intentions. The moment Irene’s words sank in, a primal urge surged within him; he wanted nothing more than to pull her close, to devour the sweetness of her lips against his.

Irene reveled in this playful teasing, knowing how much it affected him. If Gary had a tail, she imagined it would be wagging like a puppy’s, full of eager anticipation.

She cherished the loyalty and possessiveness that Gary exuded, the way he always followed her lead without question. Most importantly, she loved that his eyes were solely for her, unwavering and devoted.

Deep down, Irene recognized the depth of Gary’s affection. For far too long, she had been ensnared in her own pain, neglecting to reciprocate the love he so freely offered. Yet, she was acutely aware of everything he did for her, the little sacrifices and gestures that spoke volumes about his commitment.

—

Meanwhile, at Barton Estate in Harborton, the atmosphere was heavy with tension. Jeremy’s butler entered the room with a solemn expression, placing a small vial of medicine before him. He lingered only long enough to ensure Jeremy took the pills before departing, leaving the air thick with unspoken words.

As soon as the butler left, Jeremy’s frustration erupted, and he spat the pills into his palm, his expression darkening as he dialed Curtis’s number. “Curtis, are you absolutely certain that test result is accurate?” His voice was low, barely concealing the urgency behind his inquiry.

“Jeremy, listen to me carefully. If you trust my judgment, you need to be on high alert regarding everyone around you. Keep your cards close to your chest, and for now, don’t let anyone discover that Nicole is an impostor,” Curtis cautioned, his tone grave.

“I understand.” Jeremy hung up, his mind racing. He quickly reached out to one of his scholarship students, Justin Hotchner, a name that brought a flicker of hope. “Justin, I’m back in Harborton. I need someone trustworthy at my side.”

“Of course, Mr. Barton. I’ll be there to assist you tomorrow,” Justin replied, his voice steady and reassuring.

The homecoming party was a lavish affair, filled with the elite of Haldoria. With Curtis in attendance, he was naturally the guest of honor, and the moment he entered, a flurry of heirs and heiresses began vying for his attention.

Adriana, dressed in an elegant champagne gown, radiated confidence. Her makeup accentuated her features in a way that made her appear both youthful and strikingly mature.

As she linked arms with Curtis, they became the center of attention, all eyes drawn to their entrance.

Curtis had a reputation for attending public events solo. The last time he had brought a date to a charity gala, it had been Adriana, but they had left so quickly that few had even noticed her presence.

This time, however, he proudly introduced Adriana to everyone around them, a gesture that sent ripples of curiosity through the crowd.

“Oh, I’m not nearly as noble as Mr. Langford. Ms. Jones, despite all the scandals surrounding you in Moweland, he’s still determined to marry you. That’s very noble of him, isn’t it?” Curtis raised an eyebrow, his gaze sharp as he redirected the attention.

He had skillfully turned the tide of conversation, leaving Matthew’s face darkened with anger.

“Curtis!” Natasha snapped, her irritation palpable.

“Ms. Jones, while you may not be an orphan, your upbringing… well, it leaves much to be desired,” Curtis continued, squeezing Adriana’s hand reassuringly. “My wife may not have parents, but her character far exceeds anything Ms. Jones could ever aspire to.”

With that, Curtis guided Adriana away from the crowd, leaving behind a stunned silence.

The room buzzed with disbelief; Curtis had emerged victorious, his words cutting through the atmosphere like a blade.

Adriana glanced back at Natasha, who feigned pity, a smirk tugging at her lips. Did Natasha truly believe she could provoke Curtis without consequences? Didn’t she realize how fiercely protective he could be?

Frustration simmered within Natasha, her breaths coming in quick bursts. “Matthew… why didn’t you say anything?” she complained, her voice laced with exasperation.

Matthew, though equally furious, remained composed, his silence a testament to his character. He was calm and collected, a stark contrast to the chaos unfolding around them.