I Chose Me Over My Marriage novel Chapter 115

"I have no interest in inheriting a corporation. I prefer a life with more freedom."

Though he answered Cecilia's question, his tone was completely flat.

His deep, striking eyes held zero emotional fluctuation.

Cecilia's smile stiffened for a fraction of a second, but she quickly rallied.

"I remember back in high school, you constantly dominated the number one spot in our grade. I was always stuck trailing right behind you in second place. Everyone back then thought you were perfect at everything. Completely invincible."

She gave a soft, nostalgic laugh.

"I moved abroad for my senior year, but I kept hearing from our old classmates about all the national competitions you won. Seeing you now, I realize they were right. Exceptional people remain exceptional no matter what path they take."

"Your grades were excellent. You just leaned too heavily into the humanities. If your math scores had been a bit higher, you probably would have beaten me."

Miles's polite, measured response made Cecilia's smile widen with genuine pleasure.

Seeing the two of them seemingly hit it off, Eleanor turned to Mrs. Chambers and seamlessly intervened. "We shouldn't sit here hovering over the kids. Why don't you come upstairs with me? Let's catch up properly."

Mrs. Chambers nodded. Before leaving, she patted Cecilia's arm, gave her an encouraging smile, and followed Eleanor upstairs.

The moment the two mothers disappeared, the living room fell into a heavy, suffocating silence.

Cecilia studied Miles's impassive face and suddenly let out a quiet, resigned laugh.

"You're not interested in me, are you?"

Perhaps surprised by her bluntness, Miles didn't answer immediately.

But silence spoke volumes.

Anticipating the rejection, Cecilia nodded understandingly.

"That's okay. The fact that you were honest with me is enough."

With that, she stood up.

"Thank you for being the person I looked up to all throughout my youth. Because I liked you, I worked hard to become a better version of myself. I know this might sound completely out of line, but... if things don't work out with her, would you ever consider me?"

It was a desperate, almost pathetic plea, but she didn't care.

Miles looked at her calmly, stood up, and replied smoothly, "I'm sorry, but my feelings will not change. Thank you for your affection. If my mother's setup has caused you any distress, I can explain the situation to her and take the blame."

Cecilia quickly waved her hands. "No, no, you don't need to do that. Just pretend this conversation never happened. Honestly, my mother is constantly nagging me to find someone and get married too. This whole situation is a headache for both of us. Why don't we use this to our advantage and form a mutual alliance?"