The Cold Surgeon's Contract Bride novel Chapter 492

I didn't know what Leon was planning, but my instincts told me I couldn't accept this gift.

So, I gently pushed the box back, trying to maintain a natural, relaxed smile. "It's not my birthday or a holiday, so why the sudden gift? Besides, it looks incredibly expensive. I can't take this. Why don't you keep it for your girlfriend, Dr. Lennox?"

"I don't have a girlfriend." Leon's face flushed an even deeper shade of red, his words coming out rushed and loud.

I was taken aback by his reaction and looked at him in confusion. "Aren't you supposed to be engaged to Bianca Whitlock? How could you..."

"I'm not marrying her. I don't like her at all—I never have, not since we were kids. My family is forcing us together for an alliance, but I don't want any part of it." Leon started off frantically, his words spilling out before his pace gradually slowed.

His gaze met mine with desperate anticipation as he flipped the midnight-blue box open. "So, Dr. Hayes, could I ask you for a favor?"

Under the soft lighting of the private room, the pearls nestled inside the small box radiated a brilliant, gentle glow. They were large, perfectly round, and exquisitely elegant.

I let out a long breath of relief. It wasn't the ring I had feared. Instead, it was a pearl necklace—a delicate silver chain adorned with stunning white pearls. It was beautiful and refined.

Even though it wasn't a ring, I still couldn't accept the gift because I had no idea what kind of favor Leon was asking for.

"Dr. Lennox, I don't think I can help you..." I pushed the box back to him once again.

In truth, I had a pretty good idea of what he wanted. He likely wanted me to help him rebel against his family's arranged marriage.

But getting involved in something like that was no small matter.

Leon's broad hand suddenly covered mine, his tone growing more urgent. "I want you to pretend to be my girlfriend. Just pretend, okay, Dr. Hayes? I really can't stand Bianca, and I refuse to marry her. If I have a girlfriend of my own, they'll stop pressuring me."