Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover

Lucas couldn't stand the feeling gnawing at him. He turned on his heel, left the dining room, and headed to his room. When he came back downstairs, he'd showered, changed into fresh clothes, and looked impeccably neat. The shadows of gloom and deep fatigue still lingered in his eyes.

The housekeeper had already set his place at the table, but Connor took his usual seat. Left with no choice, Lucas sat at the very edge of the table, feeling a mix of emotions he couldn't quite describe.

Since Lucas had returned, the once light-hearted and cheerful atmosphere had evaporated. Belle had already slipped away, retreating to her room to text and chat with Juztin.NôvelDrama.Org © content.

Joshua was the first to break the silence. "Lucas, as you may know, Mr. Connor has awarded the Paradise Resort project to Leading Heights. It's a golden opportunity for Moncada International, which has been struggling with losses for years, to turn things around. Tonight's dinner is to thank Mr. Connor properly."

Connor chimed in, "Joshua, you're too kind. Sartori Corporation values the strength and quality standards of Leading Heights. This is a win-win partnership."

Everyone knew that was just the polite thing to say. There were plenty of firms more capable than Leading Heights. Connor's choice was clearly influenced by personal reasons-most likely Chloe.

Lucas knew it, too. Sartori Corporation hadn't even considered Leading Heights until Chloe met with Connor. The very next day, Moncada International received the tender documents. Lucas used to think it was his sincerity that had swayed Connor. Now, it was clear it was Chloe.

Had something started between them back then? The thought made Lucas both bitter and furious.

Out of the blue, he blurted, "Moncada International is in a tough spot, but we're not so desperate that we need to marry off our women to secure deals."

The room went dead silent. Everyone understood the implication. Lucas was accusing the family of using Chloe's charm to win the project. Joshua's face flushed with anger, and he slammed his hand on the table. "What did you just say?"

Lucas couldn't shake the image of

everyone enjoying themselves earlier. They all knew Chloe had

been his wife, even if only in the past. But now, for Moncada

International's sake, they were

ready

to offer her up without a second thought. Did they care about his feelings at all?

"Am I wrong?" Lucas shot back. "Chloe is my wife, yet here she is flattering this man for the Moncada family's benefit. If our family's future hinges on using my wife, then I want no part of it."

The room was stunned into silence. Even Tara looked ashamed. How could he say such things?

Before anyone else could respond, Chloe spoke up. "Lucas, how dare you?"

Lucas' heart ached.

"I am not your wife nor your woman, and I am certainly not a commodity to be traded for benefits," Chloe said, her voice steady and strong.