The One He Dismissed Became The One He Died For novel Chapter 95

Swallowing her absolute disgust, Claire agreed. "I'll see you there."

By noon the next day, she was seated in the main dining hall of The Azure Pavilion. The elegant restaurant featured private booths separated by ornate, antique screens, offering excellent privacy.

Claire wore a modest, neutral-toned dress that made her look delicate and refined.

Nathan's face instantly darkened when he saw her outfit, his tone laced with annoyance.

"You showed up looking like a nun? Is this your idea of a genuine apology?"

Claire sat down opposite him with perfect composure, offering a soft smile.

Slowly, deliberately, she unzipped her designer purse just enough to reveal a glimpse of scandalous black lace tucked inside, keeping her voice soothing.

"There are too many people around here. The real apology is best kept private. I brought exactly what you like. Once the contract is finalized, we can celebrate at your place, and I'll model it just for you."

With a few carefully chosen words, she had him completely hooked. The annoyance vanished from his face, replaced by a highly entertained, predatory smirk.

"The untouchable, pure campus beauty is actually a wild thing behind closed doors. Talk about a contrast."

He leaned back smugly against the cushions. "But I like a girl who knows how to please me."

Crossing his legs and taking a slow sip of tea, his attitude turned painfully arrogant.

"Once we're married, you're quitting that pathetic designer job of yours. Your only focus will be serving me at home."

"My mother has a temper, so you better not walk around looking miserable. Even if she screams at you, you'll smile and take it."

"I'm destined for big things, Claire. That means there will be other women. You are not allowed to get jealous. Even if I bring them back to our house, you will serve them politely. Understand?"

The more Nathan spoke, the more vile and delusional he became.

Beneath the table, Claire's knuckles turned white. But for the sake of the contract, she forced herself to endure it.

"I understand. I can agree to your terms."

She pulled the paperwork from her bag.

As the heavy, sickening tension mounted, a tiny figure suddenly darted out from the gap in the wooden partition.

"Goddess Claire! It really is you!"

Toby ran up to her, his massive eyes shining as he tipped his little head back to look at her.

"My mom and Uncle Miles are having lunch right back there!"

Toby pointed directly at the booth separated only by the thin screen next to them.

She couldn't see Miles through the wood, but they were sitting so incredibly close. Had he heard her entire sickening conversation with Nathan?

Great. The misunderstanding was officially fatal now...

A wave of absolute exhaustion crashed over her.

Toby leaned in, dropping his voice to a loud, dramatic whisper. "Goddess Claire, are you mad at Uncle Miles? You won't eat lunch with us, but you're sitting here with this—"