I felt dizzy under Claudia's piercing gaze, and I quickly turned to Christopher.
"What's going on? Mr. Newton, aren't you going to explain this to me?"
Why was someone else in our private space? And of all people, it had to be Claudia!
However, Christopher simply gave me a cold chuckle.
"Of course, I'll explain. This bitch claimed Nelson was really fond of you. She wanted me to risk Mr. Hawk's wrath and target you.
"If you hadn't exposed her relationship with Nelson, I would have ended up being used as a pawn!"
My heart sank. It turned out someone had been plotting against me without my knowledge. If I hadn't secured my deal with Christopher, I would be the one lying on the ground now, in agony and tears.
He burst into laughter, clearly furious with Claudia. He kicked her head hard and added, "I've been around long enough to know better. If word got out that I was tricked by some kid, I would be the laughingstock!
"But don't worry, Ariana. We have an agreement, and I won't go back on my word. Now that it's time to deal with her, feel free to stay and watch."
Claudia writhed on the ground, screaming.
"Mr. Newton! Mr. Newton! You've misunderstood me! Please give me a chance to explain!" Claudia cried.
As she squirmed pitifully, it struck me that I was the one feeling helpless now. Each of Christopher's kicks felt like they were landing on me. I couldn't imagine Nicholas's reaction if he learned about any of this.
How could Christopher treat Claudia this way? She was Nicholas's cherished sister, the official heiress of the Hawk family.
My mind felt hazy. I hadn't eaten anything when I came here at noon.
"Ariana, don't worry. You just had a little water. You've been drinking too little, so the effects of the medicine are slow. Once you fall asleep, I'll make sure to get you home safely!" Christopher said, patting his chest for assurance.
"In the meantime, just sit back and enjoy the show. Consider it a treat from me!"
I didn't trust a word he said. I couldn't afford to lose consciousness in front of him. Yet, my eyelids felt incredibly heavy, urging me to succumb to sleep.
I bit my tongue, trying to stay awake as much as I could.
Claudia shouted, "Mr. Newton! You've misunderstood me! When I said Nelson liked her, it's not the simple liking of a godfather for his goddaughter. It's that irresistible desire between a man and a woman!"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Trouble in Paradise (Arianna and Nicholas)
What the hell??? The lead character's train of thought and reasoning is too annoying for a successful and brilliant lawyer. WTF....
The leads were supposed to be successful in their fields, but were presented as stupid. So unbearable....
Please upload twins-the unforeseen legacy of my ex's uncle-in-law...
Unrealistic story. Siblings in love?...