The Rose He Showed Off Is Putting Down Roots in a Garden of Her Own novel Chapter 147

She used to love Julian. She used to look up to him, believing his capabilities were unmatched. But now she realized it was just blind infatuation. She simply hadn't seen what true, unparalleled excellence looked like.

Julian was undoubtedly competent, but compared to Zane Whitaker's sheer brilliance, he fell entirely short.

It was the difference between a true visionary and a mere pretender.

The Sterling family coasted on old political dynasty money, while the Whitakers had been ruthless business titans for generations. If Zane possessed Julian's political backing, his ceiling would be stratospheric.

A family's legacy might determine a person's starting line, but a person's raw competence dictated the family's ultimate limit.

Elara raised her glass and tapped it against Zane's. "Words can't express how grateful I am, Zane."

Zane smiled, his eyes lingering on her stunning features. "I was half-expecting you to say you'd offer yourself to me as a reward."

Elara let out a soft laugh. The last time she had practically thrown herself at him, he had politely declined.

Even though his body had clearly reacted, he hadn't crossed the line. He hadn't pushed himself against her, and their clothes had stayed firmly on. So, as a married woman, she figured she was just overestimating her own allure.

"As long as you wouldn't find me repulsive," she joked lightly.

Repulsive?

Zane wanted to devour her right there on the rug.

But how could he say that?

Could he just stare at her and say that he wanted to take her right now?

Instead, Zane forced a smooth smile. "I'm just teasing, Elara."

Elara knew her current status wasn't highly valued in his world.

She might have been a prized heiress once, but to a man of Zane's caliber, she was complicated baggage. After all, The Sapphire Lounge was filled with endless, unburdened young beauties throwing themselves at his feet.

Elara held up her whiskey glass. "Zane, I really don't have much to offer right now. But like I said before, if there is ever anything you need from me, I won't hesitate."

Zane stared at her, thinking that all he wanted was for her to marry him.

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