Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover

Lucas' hidden feelings had barely begun to form before Connor yanked them into the open for everyone to see.

Embarrassment, guilt, and shame flickered in his eyes but were quickly masked by a cool exterior.

"Mr. Connor, Chloe and I have been friends since we were kids. Our bond is over two decades strong. It isn't something an outsider like you could understand. I'd appreciate it if you'd stay out of our business."Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.

Without missing a beat, Connor draped an arm around Chloe's shoulders. "I don't think I'm much of an outsider."

The tension in the air was palpable, like a storm about to break.

The two men stared each other down. Lucas' face was a mask of cold fury, his body tight with hostility, like a leopard ready to pounce.

Connor, on the other hand, was the picture of relaxed disdain. He wore a cool expression, but his eyes twinkled with mockery, clearly not taking Lucas seriously.

This only stoked Lucas' anger further.

Chloe stood up first. "It's getting late. Connor and I are heading out."

Then Tara spoke up unexpectedly. "Chloe, can you come here for a sec? I have something for you."

Chloe nodded and stood while Connor remained seated. Her hand naturally found its way to Connor's shoulder as she leaned in to whisper, "Wait for me in the car. I'll be right out."

Connor looked up, patted her waist, and smiled softly. "Okay."

Their movements were so casual and intimate, like a couple who'd been together for years. It didn't seem like an act.

But how could that be?

Chloe followed Tara out of the dining room. Connor excused himself and left, too. Antonio and Joshua also departed. Lucas stayed in the dining room for a bit before finally deciding to follow. "Mr. Connor, a moment, please."

Lucas caught up with Connor just

outside, under a magnolia tree in the

villa's courtyard. This year, the

magnolia had bloomed later than usual, its grand white flowers only alts

fully blossoming by the end of August. Normally, the tree would already be heavy with fruit by now.

Bathed in the soft glow of ground lamps, the magnificent flowers looked serene and noble, standing apart from the world.

Much like the man beneath the tree.

Tall and elegant, Connor was a sight to behold even just standing there. It was undeniable-he had an aura of aloof nobility. Though they were all born to privilege, there were levels even among the elite. Connor was at the pinnacle, looking down on the world from his lofty perch.

Connor glanced at Lucas with cool detachment, his voice calm yet somehow oppressive. "Mr. Lucas, what do you want?"

Lucas mustered his courage and met Connor's gaze. "Mr. Connor, Chloe and I have grown up together. We are best friends since birth. Three years ago, we had a wedding ceremony witnessed by many."

"Due to some misunderstandings, I missed our appointment to officially register our marriage that day."

Connor let out a soft chuckle. "Then I must thank fate."

Lucas' expression hardened. "Mr. Connor, a divorce certificate doesn't change the fact that Chloe and I are still married in my heart. At least we once were. I believe Chloe feels the same."

A flicker of sharpness crossed Connor's eyes, but he remained outwardly indifferent. “So what, Mr. Lucas? You know that's all in the past.”

Lucas decided to be straightforward.

"I won't give up on Chloe. Linda's

schemes marred the past, but now that the truth is out, I won't give up on her again. I intend to spend the rest of my life making up for my past mistakes."

"Mr. Connor, you come from a distinguished family. The most beautiful and accomplished girls are at your disposal. But it's different for Chloe and me. We've lived like family for twenty years. I hope you'll stay out of our way."