The Ex-Con Who Conquered the World novel Chapter 37

Stefan nodded. He could see Sara possessed a fierce independence, a sharp mind coupled with remarkable beauty—a true powerhouse in her own right.

A woman like that would never submit willingly to a family-arranged marriage.

Not that Stefan particularly cared. Mayson had sent him here, to the Stewart family, with a contract in hand to marry Sara. It was all just a transaction.

The real objective was the Stewart family's Profound Cold Earth Vein.

Whether this marriage pact with Sara ever amounted to anything genuine meant little to him. After everything with Margery, he was done with pouring his heart out freely.

A woman-free heart, but never a woman-free life.

His new motto? Live loose and easy.

After a pause, Sara seemed to consider the imbalance of the situation. He was bound by the betrothal, yet shackling him with her clauses wasn't entirely fair. "I won't interfere if you have other women. As the clause says, just don't bring them to the Stewart family's place. Keep it discreet, and I'll look the other way—pretend they don't exist."

A grin spread across Stefan's face, sly and satisfied.

That particular clause was the one he valued most in the entire document.

As for the 30-million-dollar penalty for breaking off the engagement, he hadn't even bothered reading that part.

"Sara, I have no issues with these terms," Stefan said.

He paused, a thoughtful look crossing his features. "But... there's one more question."

"Oh?" Sara's eyes lifted to meet his. "What is it?"

Stefan said, "What if... just hypothetically, what if one day you change your mind? What if you don't want to cancel the engagement and demand this document back? What then?"

"There is no 'what if.' I can assure you that situation will never occur," Sara replied, her voice firm and resolute.

Stefan couldn't help but stroke his chin, a shameless smile playing on his lips. "So sure you'll never fall for me?"

Sara regarded him with a calm, detached gaze. "Stefan, you and I... we're from different worlds. It's not about looking down on you or valuing wealth. It's just... certain realities. Never mind, it's difficult to explain briefly. You'll understand in time. Maintaining this engagement does you no favors. As for falling in love with you... I believe you're overthinking it."

"But just in case?" Stefan pressed, his smile unwavering. "Let's play out the scenario. If that day ever comes, and you want this file back, what would you be willing to give up for it?"

"If that day ever comes, then I will agree to any condition you name. Unconditionally. Without a hint of regret," Sara declared, her words crisp and final.

"Deal." Stefan's response was swift and decisive.

*****

What? This was supposed to be my perfect chance to swoop in, with Stefan out of the picture with another woman. Instead, she's pushing me away?

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