The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 545

As expected of Sebastian, he could see right to the core of the issue with a single glance.

But she would never admit it.

Riley's fingers curled slightly at her sides. "You're overthinking it. Being with you is just too much trouble. I don't want to be the center of public scrutiny. It not only ruins my personal life but also affects my career."

"It will get better." Sebastian grabbed her hand. "Trust me, I'll handle everything."

"Even if the rumors die down, what then?" Riley glared at him accusingly. "I'll always carry the stigma of seducing my ex-husband's brother. No matter what you do, you can never change that."

Sebastian gently squeezed her hand, his eyes dark and earnest. "You didn't seduce me. I pursued you."

Riley's heart fluttered. She quickly pulled her hand back, forcefully suppressing the swelling tide of bitterness within her, and forced a cold expression. "Then please stop pursuing me. I don't want to play this game with you anymore."

"Play a game?" Sebastian's deep voice carried a hint of disbelief and a fleeting trace of hurt.

Clenching her fists, Riley continued delivering her harsh words. "Yes. You're in a position of power, wealthy, and you treated me incredibly well. Naturally, I couldn't reject you. But staying with you has ruined my reputation and my career. I don't like this kind of life, so I'm done playing."

Sebastian frowned. "If you were just playing, then what was that night between us about?"

The memories of their passionate entanglement flashed through Riley's mind, bringing a dull ache to her chest. That night was supposed to be the final moment of bliss she gave him before leaving. "You have a great body and a handsome face. Since we were dating, shouldn't we sleep together properly before breaking up?"

Sebastian's gaze darkened heavily. "I don't believe a single word you're saying."

"Then what do you want to hear?" Riley tugged at the corner of her lips, forming a cold, cynical smile. Suddenly, as if remembering something, she drawled, "Oh, right. You just said I wanted to leave because I was afraid of dragging you down, didn't you? If thinking that soothes your ego, you're free to believe it."