He Waited She Wilted (Ottilie and Yorath) novel Chapter 217

The Fordham family recruited dozens of top-tier engineering prodigies from elite universities every single year.

They specialized in highly classified tech development—fields the average person didn't even know existed.

Building a specialized, self-locking micro-explosive ring was probably child's play for them.

She knew this meant he was still dead set on marrying her.

The ring was a very clear, very permanent declaration of his intentions.

But as long as he didn't say the words out loud, she was going to play dumb.

It was an entire week before she finally stepped foot outside that hotel suite.

Yorath threw a massive celebratory gala in her honor.

The guest list was packed with heavy hitters from the entertainment industry.

Lachlan Schmidt was among the invited.

When Lachlan hosted events, Yorath could easily brush them off.

But when Yorath hosted an event, Lachlan didn't have the luxury of declining.

Ottilie remained glued to Yorath's side, maintaining a flawless, polite smile the entire evening.

The Schmidt brothers arrived, bringing Hayden Hadley along with them.

The moment Hayden walked in, he greeted her warmly. "Ottilie."

She gave a polite nod.

Yorath leaned down and murmured, "I wasn't aware you were acquainted with the famous Mr. Hadley."

"We went to the same university," she explained softly.

"Same university? I suppose that means you're 'friends' with half the industry then," Yorath mused. He then turned his attention to Hayden. "I heard a rumor that you were considering offering Ottilie the lead role in your upcoming film?"

"Yes, actually," Hayden replied smoothly. "The character profile fits her perfectly. Plus, we get along well, so I'm sure we'd have great chemistry on set."

"My apologies, but I'll have to decline on her behalf. Ottilie is better suited for strong, independent lead roles. In fact, she's currently headlining an upcoming sci-fi blockbuster. We are, however, looking for a male supporting actor. Given your... 'university connection,' I'm sure you wouldn't mind taking a background role to support her, would you?"

Hayden came from immense old money and undeniable power. His debut film was a dual-lead masterpiece that skyrocketed him to A-list status overnight.

His career had been an unbroken string of monumental successes.

He had never, in his entire life, played second fiddle to anyone.

Just as he reached the door of Room 320, his phone buzzed.

It was Lachlan Schmidt.

He paused by the door and answered, "What can I do for you, Mr. Schmidt?"

"Where is Heath?"

"I'm not with him."

"Hayden, I don't know what kind of game you're playing tonight, but keep Heath out of it. Don't drag the Schmidt family into your mess."

Hayden let out a mocking laugh. "Are you really that terrified of Mr. Fordham?"

Lachlan hung up abruptly.

Chuckling, Hayden pushed the door open and stepped into the dim room.

Before his eyes could even adjust, a dark figure lunged from behind the door.

A heavy black sack was instantly shoved over his head.