Ch. 421..430

Chapter 421

The woman's voice was sweet and even seemed to sound a little shy.

“Just say what's on your mind. I made an appointment to go car racing with my friends later.”

I was stunned when I heard the man's voice as it was none other than Ronan Moore's.

A smirk surfaced on my face. I didn't expect to bump into him like this. It seems like things are getting interesting.

“I... Actually, I like you. Can I be your girlfriend?”

The woman glanced at Ronan nervously while she waited for his answer.

Meanwhile, I stayed silent and continued to listen in. I was looking forward to hearing Ronan's answer. It had already been a year but he still had so many admirers around him. I wonder if he'd agree to go out with her.

“You're the third woman to confess to me today. Do you know how I rejected the other two?”

He sounded so casual and relaxed as if he didn't feel distressed about how to answer the woman's confession.

“How?”

She looked up at him, puzzled.

“I told the first one that she was too ugly, and that there's no way I'd stay erect if we were to sleep together.”

An amused smile appeared on Ronan's face, his demeanor languid and nonchalant. He didn't care that his words would make the woman in front of him feel awkward at all.

Upon hearing his words, the woman blushed but she couldn't stop herself from asking, “Then what about the second one? How did you answer her?”

“I said that she was too fat. There'd be no difference with sleeping with a pig.”

I was speechless when I heard what he had said. It had been a year but he was still as vicious as ever. As long as he didn't like her, he didn't care whether his words would hurt the woman at all.

The woman's expression changed and she flushed red. The atmosphere around them became slightly awkward.

Naturally, anyone would have felt awkward if they were to hear the person they like to say something like that.

“Then what about me? I don't think I'm ugly, and I'm not fat.”

Her heart raced as she stared at Ronan. It's about time he said something about me.

“Well, your legs are too short. I like women with long legs, but you don't have them,” Ronan said with a raised brow, having little concern that his words would hurt her.

“Ronan, you—”

She stared at him with a heartbroken look, perhaps because she didn't expect him to make such a rude comment about her body.

“You're not my type, lady. I will never be with you so it's best that you give up now.”

Ronan was someone who seemed like he could become intimate with any woman, but he never held back when rejecting them.

The woman already seemed so pitiful. Yet, he still said something so hurtful. I had never noticed that he was so good at rejecting people before this.

After listening to their conversation, I was sure that if he didn't like the woman who confessed to him, there was no way she would get a happy ending. After all, not everyone could stand that vicious tongue of his.

“Are things really impossible between us? I really like you, and I've liked you since a long time ago.”

Even though Ronan had been firm with his rejection, the woman continued to press further, refusing to give up.

“Do you think you have anything worth liking? Do you have a pretty face like a celebrity? Or a great body like a model? Or maybe the skills of a porn star? Get lost if you don't have any of that.”

Ronan was harsher than ever. I never expected him to say something as malicious as that.

No woman could ever stand hearing something like that. At his words, the woman left in tears.

Sighing a breath of relief, Ronan muttered, “Ah... Finally some peace and quiet.”

“I see you're still as vicious as ever, Mr. Moore. Seems like no one can ever be compared to you.”

I finally stood up and walked over to him, my words dripping with a hint of mockery in them.

Having heard my voice, Ronan, who was sipping his coffee, whipped his head around instantly. He then got up when he saw that it was me.

He quickly pulled me into his embrace without saying another word. He hugged me so tightly that I could feel his body trembling.

I didn't say a thing to him when I left back then, and we had not kept in touch during the year I wasn't around.

As such, it was a great surprise to be able to meet him here at the café that day.

“Are you really that excited to see me, Ronan? Are you trying to strangle me to death?”

He wrapped his arms around me so tightly that it was getting difficult for me to breathe. He's getting too excited.

“Where have you been this past year, Anna? Why isn't there any news from you? Do you know how much I've missed you?”

Ronan finally let go of me and put his hands on my shoulders as he stared at me.

Looking into his eyes, I could tell that he was concerned and worried. I knew that how he felt about me was sincere just from the looks of it.

I had always been grateful for what he had given me. It was also because I couldn't return his feelings that I had purposely kept my distance from him.

“I went abroad. But I'm back now, aren't I? And I'm perfectly well at that. Besides, I managed to witness something interesting today.”

I didn't want to bring up what had happened a year ago, so I quickly changed the subject.

“You left without saying anything back then. Do you know that Michael and I have been looking around for you like crazy? But there was still no news from you. All of us had been worried to death.”

Nonetheless, Ronan insisted on continuing with the topic. My heart lurched violently when I heard what he had just said. Did Michael really look for me like crazy back then? Is he really telling the truth?

I was starting to feel more and more confused as to what had actually happened with the divorce now.

It felt like there was something that Michael and I both didn't know about because I realized so many things that were suspicious recently.

“All right. Let's not talk about the unhappy things now. I'm back now, so shouldn't you be happy?”

I wanted to use this chance to question further but was worried that Ronan would get suspicious. So, without any choice, all I could do was to suppress my curiosity.

We sat across each other, and after a moment's silence, he looked up at me and asked, “Does Michael know that you're back?”

“Yes. We've already met a few times now.”

In fact, the very first person I met upon returning to the country with was Michael.

Chapter 422

“So, you've been back for a while already, huh? And here I thought I was the first one to see you. You know, I'm pretty disappointed that you didn't notify me the moment you got back.” Even though Ronan looked sad after hearing my response, he gave a half-smile.

“I had to meet with Michael because of work. Even if we didn't bump into each other today, I planned to contact you soon anyway. It's just that fate put us together before I could do that.” Seeing Ronan's downcast eyes, I could not help but shake my head helplessly. He's the same as he was a year ago. Still the same old Ronan.

“So, you still remember me then? I thought you'd long forgotten about me.” Ronan's smile grew wider after listening to my explanation. The man's mood seemed to have gotten much better.

“Of course! How could I forget you? You're one of my best friends!” I teased him before laughing at him.

Then, we chatted until the sky turned dark. Since I did not drive there, Ronan offered to send me back to my apartment, and I accepted.

I reckoned after a year, his feelings for me would have changed, so I decided it was no longer necessary to keep my distance from him deliberately.

On the way, Ronan asked me a lot of questions. Most of them were about why I left a year ago and how I could just leave my child.

I avoided answering any of those questions because I did not want to be reminded of my painful past. The past should stay in the past. I don't want them to affect my current life.

After taking a hot shower, I slumped into my bed and quickly fell asleep. Since returning to the country, I haven't had the time for a good sleep because of all the things I had to do.

The following evening, I arrived outside the restaurant Nicholas and I agreed to meet at. He told me he had something to say to me, so I took him up on his invitation.

It turned out that the restaurant he had booked was one frequented mainly by couples on their date nights. Hence, I hesitated to go in and wondered if it was appropriate for me to meet Nicholas there.

I knew how he felt about me, but the feeling was not mutual. On top of that, I had a hunch that he would say something I would not want to hear.

I was still wondering if I should just turn around and leave when my phone suddenly rang. It was Nicholas calling.

“Hey, Anna. Do you have trouble finding the place?” Nicholas decided to check in since it was way past the time we were supposed to meet.

“I'm just outside the restaurant, actually. I'll be right in.” With that, I decided to stop thinking about leaving and simply walked in.

Nicholas chose the table near the window because it was much quieter there, and I appreciate it.

When he saw me walking in, he smiled warmly at me and said, “Honestly, I thought you were going to stand me up.”

“Well, I'm a woman of my word, and I did promise to meet you here. What makes you think I wouldn't turn up?” I responded to him snarkily.

Instead of saying anything else, Nicholas picked up a bouquet on the chair next to him and handed it to me. “Here, this is for you.”

There was a gentleness in his eyes as he gazed at me with a soft smile.

The bouquet was comprised of crimson red roses, and they looked magnificent.

However, I was well aware of what it meant when a man gifted a woman roses, so I started to panic. “Uh... What's with the gift?”

I did not accept the flowers because I knew what Nicholas was trying to express. Suddenly, I regretted agreeing to meet with him.

“I have my reasons for asking you out, Anna. There's something I have to tell you.” After seeing my response, Nicholas's face hardened, making him seem sterner than usual.

“Nicholas, what do you say we have dinner first? As you said, it's quite late, and I'm pretty hungry.” I could guess what he would say next, but I did not want to hear it, so I quickly changed the subject to deny him the opportunity.

“Can you just listen to me for a brief moment before we have dinner, Anna? I'll try to keep it short,” requested Nicholas with his eyebrows slightly furrowed. It seemed my attempt to change the subject was futile.

I lowered my head and avoided eye contact. At that moment, I desperately tried to find a way to turn Nicholas down. At first, I thought I could bring myself to accept him, but I quickly realized that Michael was the only person I want to be with.

Even though Nicholas was by no means inferior to Michael, I just did not have feelings for him. To me, Nicholas was just a friend and a business partner.

“Anna, I've been by your side for the past year, so I know how much you've grown. Things haven't been easy for you, but still, you're doing everything you can to get your child back. I know you're more than capable of taking care of yourself, but don't you think it would be nice to be loved and cared for by a man?”

There was a moment of silence after Nicholas made the suggestion.

Not knowing how to respond to him, I gritted my teeth and remained quiet.

“It must be tiring for you to face everything alone, and it breaks my heart to see you so. Be mine, and I'll take care of you. I can protect you. Heck, I'll even make sure that you get your kid back. You can trust me.”

Nicholas confessed with so much sincerity that it was almost impossible for anyone not to be moved by him, and I was no exception.

Not only had I been through a divorce, but I also had a child with another man, so I was deeply touched that Nicholas would want to be with someone like me. However, I could not be with him because he was nothing more than a friend and business partner to me.

“Please don't say anything like that, Nicholas. We're just friends,” I reminded him with my head still lowered.

This was exactly the situation I wanted to avoid, but it happened anyway.

“No. If anything, I should've confessed to you sooner. I waited too long when I should've just told you my feelings a year ago. I wanted to give us more time, but then I realized I might miss my opportunity to be with you if I don't do this soon.”

Seeing how insecure Nicholas was only made it more difficult for me to turn him down.

I had always known how Nicholas felt about me, but I never said anything to clear things up between us, and I regretted it. I should've made it clear that I only wanted to be friends with him back then. But now that we've reached this point, I have no choice but to reject him directly.

“I'm sorry, Nicholas. But you're just a friend to me; nothing more. I just don't feel the same way about you, so there's no way—”

 

Chapter 423

Before I could finish my sentence, Nicholas suddenly interrupted, “I know what you want to say, Anna. You're trying to turn me down because you think we're just friends and business partners, right? But I know the real reason why you don't want to be with me. It's because of Michael, isn't it?”

It did not take long for Nicholas to figure me out, and when he mentioned Michael, I got even more nervous because everything he said was true. I just did not want to admit it then.

Feeling guilty as charged, I kept my head lowered for quite a while before finally deciding to bite the bullet. “Nicholas, I only rejected you because I don't have feelings for you. It has nothing to do with anybody else. I'm simply listening to my heart.”

I knew better than to get Michael involved because it would only make things more complicated, and that was the last thing I wanted.

“Anna, you know what kind of person I am and how much I care for you. If you have my help, I'm sure things will get much easier for you. And since Michael's out of the question, why not give me a chance? I think it'd be best for the two of us, don't you?” Nicholas seemed to have stopped suspecting Michael, yet he was still not ready to give up.

I did not expect Nicholas to be so persistent; I thought he would just let it go as soon as I turned him down because that was what happened before.

Every time I deliberately tried to change the subject, he would go along with it. However, it seemed that he was determined to get an answer from me this time.

“Nicholas, I—”

“Aren't you going to take the flowers first? I've been holding them out for a while now, you know?” Nicholas interrupted me again before gesturing for me to accept the bouquet.

Staring at the roses, I thought it would only be polite for me to accept them, but at the same time, I did not want Nicholas to take it the wrong way.

Eventually, I decided to accept the bouquet out of courtesy.

“I don't believe that you never imagined us being together. I mean, I'm not that bad, am I?” Nicholas's expression softened up a little after I took the flowers from him.

I frowned a little when I heard those words. I can't deny the fact that Nicholas is a fine gentleman, but he's still no match for the old Michael. So honestly, I really don't have any feelings for him.

“You are a catch, and I'm sure there are a lot of women out there who would kill to be with you. But I'm not one of them. I'm just different like that. You know that, right?” I inquired while looking him right in the eye.

Since Nicholas had decided to come clean, I thought I should make myself clear as well to avoid the awkward situation from happening again in the future.

“That's precisely the reason I fell for you. The more I got to know you, the more my feelings for you grew. I've never felt this way about another woman! That's why I decided long ago that I was going to make you mine.”

Although I had already made myself as clear as possible, Nicholas continued to express his feelings for me. My goodness! What do I have to say to make him understand? It's like he's ignoring what I said on purpose.

“This is the proposal ring I've prepared for you, Anna. Will you marry me?”

Just when I was still trying to figure out how to explain myself, Nicholas suddenly pulled out a ring.

I was utterly stunned as I stared at the expensive-looking diamond ring. Never did I expect Nicholas to propose to me that night.

I thought he was just planning to confess to me, so the sudden turn of events caught me completely off guard.

I stared coldly at Nicholas and wondered what was going on in his mind. What the heck happened to him? The Nicholas I know would never do anything like this. Since when did he become so hasty?

Before I could reject him, I heard someone clapping behind me, and following that was a familiar voice.

“I only came here for dinner, so I never expected to see such a grand display of love. Are you that eager to get married, Anna?”

Michael's tone was icy-cold, and when I turned around to face him, I could see that he had clenched his fists in anger.

My mind immediately went blank after seeing the furious look on his face. “What... What are you doing here?”

For some reason, a part of me hoped that Michael heard what Nicholas said to me.

“Why shouldn't I be here? Are you afraid that I would witness how you accept another man's proposal? No wonder you kept refusing to see me. You're trying to throw yourself into someone else's arms, aren't you?” ridiculed Michael with a condescending sneer.

Immediately after listening to those harsh words, I, too, got upset. What right does he have to judge me like that? I didn't even respond to the proposal yet! Even if I were to marry another man, what does it have to do with him? I can be with whoever I want!

“I don't think this is any of your business. I'm allowed to marry anyone I please,” I retorted before turning my back on Michael.

Meanwhile, Nicholas seemed unusually calm about Michael's sudden appearance.

Since the two were seated facing each other, I suspected Nicholas would have seen Michael coming. Why didn't he say anything about it, though? Did he want Michael to see him propose to me?

The look on Nicholas' face was enough to convince me that I was right, and at that point, I was disgusted by his deviousness.

“Are you really that desperate for a man, Anna? Why didn't you come to me then?” Michael got even angrier after hearing what I had to say, but he did his best to suppress his emotions.

 

Chapter 424

Michael strode toward me, his every word causing the rage within me to burn brighter by the second.

“Michael, so what if I'm desperate for a man? It has nothing to do with you. I would rather get myself a male prostitute than go to you. Please get out of my sight now. I don't want to see you!”

When he appeared just now, there was a split moment where I felt guilty. However, after hearing what he said, my guilt was swiftly replaced by rage.

I had no intention of being together with Nicholas. Yet, he misunderstood and humiliated me in public.

“I can leave if you want me to leave. But you are coming with me!”

As Michael spoke, he grabbed my arm abruptly and started dragging me outside.

Although it was true that I wanted to leave this place, I had no intention of leaving with him.

“Michael, what are you doing? This is a restaurant. Many people are watching us! Are you trying to kidnap me?”

I struggled to free myself from his grip as I shouted wrathfully at him. I did not care about my image anymore as he had totally pissed me off.

Michael stared back at me, his gaze burning with fury as well. However, before he could say anything, Nicholas, who had been keeping silent, opened his mouth.

“Mr. Shaw, if I am not mistaken, Anna has already divorced you. It's up to her whether to accept my

proposal or not. You have no right to interfere, and you can't force her to leave.”

Standing up, Nicholas cast a calm look at Michael. He sounded calm and composed.

Upon hearing that, Michael furrowed his brows and stared at Nicholas coldly.

“Even though we are divorced, she is still my woman. So you'd better keep your grubby hands off her. Nicholas, I'm warning you. You can't afford to cross me!”

Michael narrowed his eyes, his gaze flashing a sense of hostility. He was determined to go against Nicholas no matter what.

“Is that so? I'm actually curious now to find out what will happen if I get together with Anna. In fact, if she's willing to become my woman, I will gladly pay whatever price I need to pay, it would be worth it. Don't you agree, Mr. Shaw?”

Nicholas smiled faintly. He did not seem to be bothered by Michael's threat in the slightest.

I was displeased with Nicholas' words. I knew he was trying to provoke Michael, and what he said would only make my relationship with Michael worse.

I was well aware of what his purpose was. As a result, I found the disdain I had for him grew more profound.

Michael clenched his fists as he glared at Nicholas. Before the latter could react, He had landed a punch on him.

I knew Michael was good at fighting. After all, he managed to rescue me from a few kidnappers back then. Seeing him making a move at Nicholas, I could not help but worry.

It's indeed terrifying whenever Michael gets physical. If anything happens to Nicholas, he would also need to take responsibility. I couldn't help feeling concerned that Nicholas might get hurt.

While I was still deep in thought, Nicholas had already gotten beaten to the ground. The next second, he immediately stood up and charged toward Michael. The two wrestled, but it was evident that Michael had the upper hand.

“The two of you, stop fighting!”

I shouted desperately at them. Yet, none of them listened to me. At that moment, they were obsessed with defeating the other party.

The customers dining in the restaurant shifted their attention toward us. Some of them even seemed to recognize Michael.

“That's enough!”

The two of them were in the midst of a fierce fight, and they did not care how the others thought of them. I could not stand getting treated as a bargaining chip between them any longer and kept shouting at them to stop.

Once again, Michael beat Nicholas to the ground. I saw the corner of Nicholas's mouth start to bleed. My heart was petrified in fear, for I knew there was no limit to Michael's violence once he lost his

temper.

Just when Michael was about to attack Nicholas again, I rushed toward them and stood in front of Nicholas.

Michael's gaze burned with rage when he saw me blocking his way. His fist paused in the air and trembled incessantly.

“Anna, are you trying to protect another man now?”

If it weren't for the fact that I was a woman, I reckoned he would have punched me by then.

“Michael, that's enough. If you don't stop, you're going to injure him!”

There was no time for me to recompose my thoughts. At that moment, I only knew that I must stop him from escalating the fight. If Nicholas were to get injured, it would spell serious trouble for Michael. Even though Michael would probably find a way to solve the issue, Nicholas was not an easy opponent to get rid of.

“Anna, I'm fine. Don't worry about me.”

Nicholas sat up and patted my shoulder gently.

I turned around and observed his face. There were bruises all over his face and bloodstain on the corner of his mouth. He looked utterly miserable. No one would have known he was a general manager if they did not know him.

In the year that I had known him, I had never seen him in such a pathetic state. Knowing that he was a sore loser, I was sure that he would take his revenge against Michael. I feared that the conflict between them would not end so quickly.

“How do you feel? Is it painful?”

My brows knitted tightly together as I stared at his wounds.

Even though I was not into him, he was still my friend. I would not want to see him getting hurt. Moreover, I would not be able to forgive myself if he got hurt because of me.

“Don't worry about me. It's just some scratches. If I can't even take these, I am not qualified to be called a man.”

Nicholas smiled at me casually before using the back of his hand to wipe off the blood on his mouth. He looked like he was not bothered by those wounds at all.

I could not help but worry. After all, his wound looked severe, and it must be painful. I guess all men liked to put on a tough front, huh? Especially in front of the woman they favored.

“Anna, how could you worry about another man right in front of me? You're just blatantly disrespecting me! How could you treat me like this?”

Michael could not bear seeing my concern for Nicholas. He kept his cold gaze on me, his chest heaving up and down as he tried to suppress his rage.

I was livid as well upon hearing his words. You are the one who hit him first.

“Michael, stop making a fuss! I really hate the way you're behaving now! Nicholas didn't even offend you, so how could you hit him?”

I confronted him, my voice getting louder as I spoke.

“I can hit whoever I like. There is no need for a reason. Anna, you keep pissing me off today!”

His dark eyes glinted as though they could swallow me whole.

 

Chapter 425

“Michael, how could you be so unreasonable? This is preposterous!”

I shot an angry look at Michael. At that moment, I wished I could slap him in the face. He was the one who got violent in the first place. Yet, he still acted like he did nothing wrong.

“Anna, forget it. Stop arguing with him.”

Just when I was about to lose my temper completely, Nicholas grabbed my hand and comforted me with a meek voice.

I was concerned about his wounds as they looked severe. Hence, I turned away and ignored Michael.

“Let's skip the dinner tonight. Let me send you to the hospital first. The wounds on your face look severe. We need to get it treated immediately.”

If he goes to the company tomorrow looking like this, I bet the employees will come up with all kinds of gossip.

“Hold on. You haven't given me an answer to my proposal just now. Anna, I really want to be with you. Can you accept my proposal? I promise I will treat you well, and I won't do anything to hurt you.”

Nicholas took out the ring again and handed it to me. I was rendered speechless by his gesture.

Seeing him being so persistent even after getting injured, I furrowed my brows. Even though I still felt nothing for him, I could not make myself reject him. Besides, I was not in the mood to consider such an important matter in such a situation. The priority now should be getting him to the hospital to treat those

wounds.

I took a deep breath and tried to recollect myself. I intended to persuade him to go to the hospital first. However, before I could open my mouth, Michael's voice sounded again.

“Anna, don't you dare accept his proposal! You belong to me!”

His tone sounded arrogant and rude as always. He's indeed the most self-centered person I have ever met.

I was beyond exasperated upon hearing that. Even now, he still tries to threaten me! Everything happened today because of him. Yet, he shows no remorse at all. I never thought he could be so unreasonable. What makes him think he can control me?

Initially, I wanted to reject Nicholas. However, Michael's insufferable behavior provoked me, and I changed my mind. Overwhelmed with rage, I accepted Nicholas' proposal.

“Okay, I'll accept your proposal. I believe you are a good man, and that you will never do anything to hurt me.”

I looked at Nicholas with a gentle gaze. Even though I was talking to him, my words were actually meant for Michael. Since Michael did not want me to marry another man, I would do the opposite of what he said. I wondered how he would react to it and what kind of crazy antics he would pull next.

“Anna, how dare you!”

Before Nicholas could say anything, Michael opened his mouth again, his tone dripping with unadulterated rage.

“It's my freedom to be with whoever I want. You can't control me!” I uttered indifferently.

I did not look at Michael at all when I spoke.

“Okay. Let me put the ring on your finger.”

Nicholas seemed to be surprised by my answer, for he looked to be in shock as he slid the ring onto my middle finger, his hand trembling slightly as he did so.

I froze on the spot as I stared at the ring on my finger. It was only then that I finally realized what I had done in my moment of anger. I could not believe I had actually accepted Nicholas' proposal.

Am I out of my mind? How could I let my anger blind me?

After putting the ring on my finger, Nicholas planted a gentle kiss on the back of my hand. Feeling his warm lips, my expression stiffened as I immediately pulled back my hand.

He noticed my awkwardness, but he did not say anything. He stood up and pulled me up with him.

Meanwhile, Michael was shooting daggers at my ring as he clenched his fists. I had never seen him so enraged before. For a moment, I thought he was going to hit me.

“Anna, I hope you won't regret the decision you made today!”

Upon saying that, Michael turned and left abruptly.

Disappointment welled up within me as I stared at his departing figure. I did not know how it ended up like this. However, it was not the time for me to get emotional. I still needed to take Nicholas to the hospital.

I cleared my thought and tried not to think about Michael anymore.

“Let's go. I'll accompany you to the hospital. Your wounds need to be treated soon. Otherwise, I fear it will cause an uproar in the company tomorrow,” I uttered faintly as I grabbed Nicholas' hand.

Nicholas nodded and did not reject my request. I reckoned he was satisfied with that night's outcome. After all, he had always wanted to make Michael misunderstand our relationship. It seemed like he had succeeded.

After we got to the hospital, the doctor applied some ointment on Nicholas' face and prescribed some anti-inflammatories for him. The doctor said there was nothing to be worried about in his injury. Hence, it didn't take long for us to leave the hospital.

Since he was injured, I drove his car and sent him back to his house.

After parking the car outside the building, I prepared to leave. Before I could, however, Nicholas grabbed my hand.

“Are you leaving already?”

His tone sounded unsatisfied. I glanced at him and noticed him furrowing his brows.

“Of course. It's late. I need to go back earlier to rest. We can talk tomorrow if there's anything.”

After all the fuss earlier, I was not in the mood to entertain him anymore. All I wanted was to get a good night's sleep and forget about everything that happened.

“I was beaten badly, and I have not eaten dinner yet. Are you really fine with seeing me heading up alone and cooking for myself?”

Still frowning, he let out a helpless sigh as he spoke.

I understood what he was implying. He wanted me to cook for him. Even though I did not feel like doing so, I felt guilty since he got injured because of me. As such, I thought it was my obligation to at least take care of him for that day.

Letting out a sigh, I eventually chose to give in. “All right, then. I'll go and cook something for you. I'll leave after that.”

Nicholas' eyes lit up, evidently delighted after hearing my response. With that, I followed him into his house.

Even though we came back to this country together, I had never been to his place until now. I thought we were not close enough for that. After seeing his house design, I felt like he was someone with great taste.

Walking into the living room, I placed the medicine on the table and asked, “Where is your kitchen? Let me cook for you first.”

“There should be some ingredients inside the fridge. I'm not sure if it's enough, though.”

He pointed at the kitchen.

I did not say anything else as I made my way toward the kitchen.

Just like he said, there was nothing much inside the fridge. There were only some eggs and vegetables.

I sighed helplessly as it was challenging to make a meal with such limited ingredients.

 

Chapter 426

I went back to the living room and asked Nicholas, “Why is there only so little food here? Is there something else?”

“I guess not. I live here alone. As you know, not many men know how to cook. I usually order takeout or I'll eat outside. But I don't think there will be any takeout service at this hour.”

Nicholas shrugged helplessly.

Heaving a sigh, I dragged my feet back to the kitchen. I figured I could whip up a bowl of noodles.

Even though that might sound a little too simple for someone like him, the most important thing now was to fill his stomach. I was somewhat relieved as it did not take long to cook a bowl of noodles. All I wanted was to fulfill my obligation and go home right after that.

After I was done preparing the dish, I brought it over to Nicholas.

If it wasn't for the fact that he got beaten up for me, I doubt I would be willing to cook for him. After all, it was awkward for me to do so based on our current relationship.

Seeing the bowl of noodles in my hand, Nicholas raised his brows. But he did not seem to be disdained by it.

“It smells nice. I bet it's delicious.”

He flashed me a gentle smile before picking up his fork to eat.

“Enjoy. I'll clean up and leave once you're done.”

“You only cooked one portion. You have not eaten dinner too, right? Aren't you hungry?”

He was puzzled to see me not eating anything.

“I'm not hungry.”

After all that happened earlier, I no longer had any appetite.

“You look unhappy. Is it because of Michael?”

Nicholas paused after eating a few bites.

“I don't want to talk about it tonight. I'm exhausted.”

I knew that I would get emotional again if I mentioned Michael. Hence, I chose not to touch on the topic.

“Okay. I won't mention it if you don't like it.”

He did not press further on the topic. He simply lowered his head and continued digging in.

Probably due to the fact that he was actually famished, he finished the bowl of noodles in the blink of an eye.

After cleaning up, I grabbed my coat, preparing to leave.

Yet, at that moment, Nicholas grabbed my hand. I was forced to turn around and face him, only to see that he was looking at me with a profound expression.

I did not know why but I felt extremely awkward. I shook off his grip and tried to keep the distance between us.

“Is there anything else?”

I frowned slightly, my tone indifferent.

“Why don't you stay here tonight?” Nicholas uttered in a low voice.

I could see that he had a strange expression on his face.

Being an adult that already had sexual encounters before, I knew right away what he was implying.

As I looked into his eyes, I started to panic. Without hesitation, I rejected him, “I'm not going to stay. I've got to go. You should rest early.”

It never crossed my mind to start a sexual relationship with him. Plus, there were only the two of us in the house. I was worried that something might happen.

As I turned around to leave, he hugged me from behind.

Even though he was injured, there was still no way I could defeat a man's strength. No matter how hard

I struggled, I could not free myself from his hug.

“Nicholas, let go of me. Don't be like this!”

I struggled desperately as anxiousness filled my heart. His behavior was frightening me.

Even though I have had sex countless times, I did not want to do it with someone I did not like.

“Anna, you've accepted my proposal today. Sooner or later, we will be together. So please just stay here tonight.”

His tone was heavy with desire and impatience.

I had known him for around one year. I knew he was a decent man, and he seldom hung out with women. As a man, it was only natural he would have sexual desire. I understood that. Nevertheless, I did not want to have sex with him.

“Nicholas, I know what you mean. But I won't stay. Our relationship is not at that kind of level yet. Plus, I only treat you as a friend.”

How could I possibly do such a thing with a friend?

“A friend? How could that be? You've already accepted my proposal. You are my fiancée now. We are no longer friends. In fact, we will get married and have children in the future.”

Upon hearing what I said, he got slightly emotional.

I was overwhelmed with frustration as I stared at him. Initially, I wanted to wait until tomorrow to explain to him. However, judging from his behavior, I felt I needed to explain everything clearly to him right then.

I shook his hand off and looked at him sternly. “Nicholas, I only accepted your proposal because I didn't want Michael to look down on us. I wasn't thinking straight. It was a reckless decision of mine and I feel like I need to be honest with you now.”

Thinking back, I could only blame myself for accepting Nicholas' proposal. After all, I only did it to piss Michael off. I could not believe I had made such a hasty decision and put myself in a troublesome spot.

Upon hearing that, Nicholas frowned. His gaze was filled with disappointment. “Do you mean to say that you accepted my proposal not because you wanted to but because Michael was present?”

There was a trace of anger in his voice as he spoke. Being a man, it was natural that he would have his pride to uphold. As such, I knew it would be hard for him to accept the truth that I only accepted his proposal because of another man.

Looking at his piercing gaze, I lowered my head with guilt. I should not have mentioned Michael in front of him. Nonetheless, I had no choice but to explain everything to him right there and then.

“I'm sorry. I acted recklessly and made you misunderstand. It's my fault.”

I knew his feelings for me, yet I used him to piss Michael off. It was reasonable for him to feel angry now. I did not blame him. I only blamed myself.

“Stop saying that you're sorry. Anna, be honest with me. Are you still thinking of Michael? Are you still holding hope for him?”

Chapter 427

Nicholas' tone was solemn when he asked that question, and he kept staring at me while waiting for my response.

It was as though he saw through me, and I felt my heart beating faster as I panicked. Ridden with guilt, I tilted my head down and couldn't bring myself to look him in the eye.

He was a smart man, so it would be a miracle if he couldn't guess why I had rejected him that quickly.

In a way, I guess I was also admitting to it with my silence.

“I see. So you haven't moved on from him. Are you still fantasizing about being with him? Have you forgotten why you came back in the first place? Do you still remember how he hurt you a year ago?”

Nicholas became agitated when he saw how I was keeping silent. His tone was a little hostile, and he had his hands on my shoulders as he said those words.

I knew he must feel terrible at that moment. He only said all that to remind me I will never be with Michael again.

Everything he said was true. There was no way Michael and I could find our way back to each other, but even then, I wouldn't get together with just any man. Emotion simply didn't work that way.

I didn't have any feelings for Nicholas, so there was no way I would sleep with him or marry him. It was cruel of me to reject him like that, but I thought it was the best option for both of us.

“I am well aware of everything you said. There is no way Michael and I can be together again, and I

never even dreamed of us finding our way to each other. That is the one thing you don't need to worry about.”

Nicholas only came back to prove his strength and to acquire Michael's company.

Hence, his main concern should be a skilled worker like me supporting Michael. If I were to get back together with Michael, Nicholas' quest would be virtually impossible to accomplish. That was not an exaggeration because I had worked for Nicholas for years. I knew all about him and had a good idea of what his plans were.

“If you know that the two of you will never be together, why won't you be with me? How is Michael better than me? Is this about his power? His looks?”

Nicholas' hand gripped my shoulder. His emotions were getting more and more out of control, and his eyes shone with discontentment.

That was the first time I saw him that agitated, and I was a little taken aback. The sudden change was too drastic, and it got to the point where I felt as though I no longer knew the man standing in front of me.

He was usually grounded and stoic. It seemed he was confident in accomplishing whatever he had set out to do, and that was a trait similar to Michael's.

The way he lost control, however, made me feel as though he was someone who was too stubborn. If it were anyone else, they would probably have given up after being rejected that directly and clearly. Yet Nicholas refused to let go.

“Nicholas, love is not something rational or something that can be explained. I will never be with Michael, but I won't get together with you either, because I don't love you. I don't want to spend the rest of my life with someone I don't love. You understand that, don't you?”

I was getting a little agitated, so my tone was getting hostile. His constant badgering made me impatient. Guilt was burning in my heart when this topic first started, but that had since turned into a desire to flee the place. I simply didn't want to continue talking to him about it.

“No, I don't believe that. How could you work with an excellent man like me for a year and still not love me? Trust me, Anna. You will surely fall for me once you become mine.”

After saying that, Nicholas hugged me and kissed me all over my face without letting me reply.

My heart pumped with surprise and fear when I realized what was happening. I struggled as much as I could to push him away, but he kept his lips on me. That was when I truly panicked.

I was terrified of him doing something crazy to me because I am a woman. Women simply couldn't force themselves to sleep with someone they didn't love.

At that moment, the only thought running through my mind was that I needed to run away quickly.

Unfortunately, his hold on me was tight. He was on the verge of kissing my lips, so I used every bit of strength in me to push him away. Alas, I still failed to do so. In the end, his lips found mine.

Anger and fear burned in my heart. Taking the opportunity when he was distracted, I bit and injured his lip. The pain prompted him to loosen his grip on me, and I shoved him away. Before he could even

come around, I landed a heavy slap across his face.

“Nicholas Cadman, I can't believe you're such a despicable man. I honestly gave you too much credit.”

We had spent a year working together, and in all that time, I had always seen him as an honorable gentleman. However, the fact that he forced a kiss on me and had planned on going further completely changed my opinion of him.

At that moment, my heart burned with disdain for him. I hated the way he behaved.

Nicholas seemed to have regained some control after being slapped. When he tilted his head up again, his eyes shone with guilt.

“I'm sorry. I-I lost control and didn't mean to do that...”

He looked into my eyes and was trying to explain himself. It was obvious he was nervous, but I was not in the mood to listen to him.

“There is no need to say anything, Nicholas. I don't want to hear it. My gosh, I am so disappointed in you!”

My eyes were reddened with anger when I spat those words out, and I left immediately after.

My legs were trembling a little because I was terrified, and the shaking lasted quite some time.

It was late at night, and I was alone when I walked down the sidewalk. My tears wouldn't stay put, and they rolled down my cheeks. I truly regretted my decision to have dinner with him, and I regretted

saying yes to his marriage proposal. I definitely regretted taking him to the hospital and going to his place afterward.

If I hadn't accepted his invitation for dinner, none of the other events would've taken place.

I never thought Nicholas would do something like that to me. Is he still the Nicholas Cadman I know? Perhaps, it would be more appropriate to say that I never knew the real him, to begin with.

That night, as I strolled around on my own, my phone suddenly rang. I fished it out of my pocket and saw a series of numbers that I knew all too well. Michael's calling.

I never saved his number on my contact list after I got back to the country. Sadly, that phone number had been etched into my brain, and I simply couldn't wipe it out of my memory.

I could guess that he wasn't calling me with any good intentions. Coupled with the fact that I was too tired to deal with anything, I didn't bother to pick up and simply hung up instead.

That night, Michael threatened me when I agreed to marry Nicholas, and those words were still echoing in my mind. Calling me that late at night meant that something was definitely off.

I was already in a bad mood, so I didn't want to make things worse for myself.

A few seconds after I hung up the call, my phone rang again. It was Michael. I frowned in annoyance and turned off my phone in a fit of frustration.

 

Chapter 428

I hailed a cab and went back to my apartment. A familiar-looking car came into my view before I even got home, and Michael was standing right beside it.

Michael's unannounced visit only made me frown. Too much had happened that night, and he left in a fit of anger at the restaurant. Hence, I was sure he didn't drop by to be nice.

I didn't want to deal with Michael, so I stood in the same spot instead of moving forward. My mood was getting worse by the second.

When he saw me there, he frowned as well. He fumed a moment later and marched toward me. His anger definitely made me panic a little.

I took a deep breath and did my best to make myself seem calm. Everything that happened was his fault, so there was no need for me to feel guilty.

Michael made his way to me and loomed over me. His eyes glowed with rage, and he demanded, “Why are you home so late? Were you with Nicholas?”

He spoke as though he was interrogating me, and I hated that tone.

I glared back at him and spat my words icily, “Is that any of your business?”

He didn't have the right to question me about who I have been hanging out with. This guy keeps making demands in the worst tone, and that's what makes him so insufferable.

“Anna Garcia, you'd better stop messing with me. My patience has its limits!”

My initial plan was to circle around him and leave, but he swirled around and blocked my path again at the next second. I glared over and made sure he could see the anger burning within me when he looked into my eyes.

“Michael, I am not the one messing with you. You're the one who keeps showing up and making things difficult for me. Will you stop already? Who I spend my time with has nothing to do with you, and you don't get to interrogate me about it. Get that through your thick skull already.”

I tilted my head up and glared angrily at him. What is with this guy? How many times do I need to repeat myself? Why must he keep badgering me?

“Nothing to do with me? You're mine, and you want to get together with another man! How can you say that it has nothing to do with me?”

Michael put his hands on my shoulders and looked into my eyes. His grip was strong, so I made sure to glare at him in the evilest way possible.

“What the hell do you want? What do I have to do to get you out of my sight?”

I looked into Michael's eyes, my heart burning with rage. What will it take to get this guy to leave me alone? It took me so much to bring myself to cut all ties with him, and he kept showing up as though it were his mission to ruin my efforts. What the hell does he want from me?

I was frustrated, but a part of me was also glad. Perhaps I knew that my heart would be filled with sorrow if we ever became strangers.

“Where is your ring? Didn't you accept Nicholas' proposal? So, where is the ring?”

At that moment, his gaze was locked on my finger, and the fury in his eyes dissipated a little. His tone was a little more excited as well.

“I didn't want to lose it, so I kept it away.”

I instinctively covered my finger with my other hand, despite knowing it was too late to hide anything. Truth was, I had taken the ring off and returned it to Nicholas when I was at his place. I didn't expect Michael to notice something so minor.

“Kept it away? That's an engagement ring, so why would you keep it away just like that?”

Michael didn't buy a word I said, and his eyes shone with suspicion when he looked at me. The silver lining was that his suspicion seemed to have made him feel much better.

“I...”

His interrogation made me feel guilty, and I found it difficult to look into his eyes.

“Anna, you don't love Nicholas at all, do you? I am still the man you love, right?”

Michael got closer to me when he saw how I was keeping quiet. His eyes glowed with a hint of anticipation as he did so.

His gaze made me uncomfortable, so I turned to the side to ignore him. To be honest, I didn't know how

to answer his question.

“Answer me, Anna Garcia!”

Michael raised his voice a little when I kept my mouth shut. He was also getting more and more agitated.

“What kind of answer do you expect from me? I've already told you I will never be with you, but you refuse to believe me, so why are you asking me this now? Will you only believe me if I give you an affirmative answer? Is that it?”

I turned to him and looked into his eyes before I said those words firmly.

With his gaze still locked onto mine, he fell silent, but I could tell he was angry.

“Move aside. I'm tired, and I want to rest now.”

I pushed Michael aside and walked up the stairs. At that moment, I didn't want to see him. He always made me upset whenever he showed up, and I was so done with that.

I unlock the door and was ready to get inside, but his huge palm pressed against the door. He wouldn't let go regardless of how much I pulled.

I glared over and spat icily, “Go away!”

He didn't care about what I said at all. He opened the door with a slight pull and circled around me to walk into my place.

I could only gawp at him. Michael strode into my living room as though he owned the place, and I could feel my anger building up. He's acting like a complete madman! Is he still the Michael I used to know?

“Michael, I'm really tired, and I want to sleep. Can we just talk some other day? I'm exhausted and am in no mood to deal with you now.”

I approached him and sighed in frustration. At that moment, I was too emotionally spent to argue with him.

“Then go to sleep. I never said I'd keep you up,” replied Michael calmly as he raised his brows.

“I can't sleep with you here. If you want me to rest well, then please leave.”

He might not be making any noise, but how am I supposed to sleep with him sitting in my living room like this?

“Just ignore me and pretend I'm not here.”

His tone was nonchalant, and the anger in his eyes had faded when he looked at me. Still, the way he behaved annoyed me.

“I can't sleep like this.”

I frowned and sat in front of him while glaring impatiently.

“If you can't sleep, then that must mean you're not tired. In that case, let's do something else.”

He approached me as he spoke, and my heart was thumping so fast that it felt as though each beat was sending ripples all the way to my throat. I watched as he moved closer to me.

Wait, did he just say he wants to do something else? Is that something else what I think it is?

I wasn't sure if I was dirty-minded or if Michael was actually thinking about that, but I had my guard up around him. I even tried to get up and stay away from him.

Unfortunately, he tackled me and pushed me back onto the couch as soon as I got up.

“Michael Shaw, what are you doing?”

He was already hovering over me at the time, and I would have to be an idiot to not know what he was thinking.

How can his monstrous lust act up at a time like this?

“What do you think a man and a woman can do at a night like this? It's been a year since we last played. Don't you want it?”

Michael was right in front of me, and his voice had turned huskier from the lust.

 

Chapter 429

Michael's blunt words made me flush red. I couldn't believe he said that with a straight face on.

We hadn't had the chance to have a proper conversation since that night, and we certainly hadn't been intimate in a while. Yet, he was being that straightforward.

“You shameless oaf!”

I pushed Michael as hard as I could. My body wasn't opposed to being with him, but I didn't like the idea of him forcing my hands. Moreover, I still hadn't moved on from the incident last year, and I was truly annoyed.

“Shameless? Weren't you enjoying yourself that night, too? Can you really say that you didn't feel anything at all?”

Michael's words were even more shameless, and his lips had already reached my ear. He was nibbling on my ear and neck.

“Michael Shaw, leave me the hell alone!”

I exerted my energy and pushed him while anger kept building inside my heart. This guy really can say all sorts of shameless things without feeling anything. Seriously, is he that into forcing others?

He used his weight to pin me down and prevented me from moving about. I tried to push at him but to no avail. By then, his hand had already started caressing my body, and his breathing had become uneven.

I knew the desire within him was burning wildly, and my heart trembled. I stopped pushing him as hard.

“Weren't you rejecting me just moments ago? Why are you stopping now? You've missed me this past year, haven't you?”

He whispered endlessly into my ears, and I blushed after hearing them, but my body reacted differently.

I closed my eyes and ignored him completely. There was no point for me to struggle since he wouldn't let me go, no matter what I say. This man has always behaved this way. He will only do what he wants and will force others' hands if necessary.

I kept my eyes closed and let Michael do whatever he wanted with me.

When my body was ready, he entered me.

Perhaps it was because I was at a sexually active age, but I could feel my own body losing control. It was an undeniable fact that I was enjoying it.

This time around, Michael didn't go crazy and ignore my well-being. He was much gentler, and at the very least, he didn't make me suffer.

When all was done, he rested on top of me and panted. I was utterly exhausted by then. This is the second time we slept together after I return to the country.

At first, I was determined to make sure that I would no longer have any attachment to him. It seemed that this mission of mine was not as easy as I initially thought.

“Anna, come back to me and be mine.”

Michael's voice was deep and husky as he whispered into my ear.

My heart jumped. There was a moment when I was tempted, but that temptation quickly faded away and was replaced with hatred.

I closed my eyes and ignored him, but underneath it all, I thought it was funny. If he's that in love and that eager to get me to go back to him, why did he hurt me all those years ago? Did he regret his actions?

So what if he regrets it? It's too late now, anyway.

“Anna, I will make you come back to me willingly, and I will make you fall for me once more.”

He wasn't angry with my silence and spoke with determination while resting beside me.

My heart stirred a little when I heard that, but I acted as though I did not hear what he said. I would ignore every word Michael said at that moment. The same warning kept echoing in my mind. You must not cave.

Michael stared for quite some time before he averted his gaze. It was as if he knew I wouldn't talk to him, but he wasn't angry about that. He simply carried me to the bedroom and helped me clean up.

At the moment, he behaved the way he did when we first got married. He was gentle and treated me like a piece of treasure.

I couldn't help replaying the sweet memories we made together. That was a time when I thought I was the happiest woman on Earth and that Michael would love me forever. It wasn't until a year ago did I realize how naïve I was. It was laughable, really. The past me probably let my guard down and trusted him because he treated me the way he is treating me now.

His tenderness at that moment tempted me so, so much, but I worked hard to keep myself calm. I didn't want to be the idiot I used to be a year ago. I certainly would not let myself remain ignorant until the damage was already done.

“Michael, what do I have to do to get you to leave me alone?”

I opened my eyes and looked at him. I did not speak too loudly, but I made sure that my tone was serious. The thing was, my heart was truly swaying, and it worried me. What if I couldn't stand my ground as time passed?

 

Chapter 430

Michael's hand paused for a moment after he heard what I said. He frowned at the very next moment and turned around. In a deep voice, he asked, “Anna, are you really that eager to make me leave? Do you really hate me that much?”

His voice was soft as well. It carried a hint of dissatisfaction, but he wasn't angry at me.

“I don't want to see you again because I don't want you to mess my mind up. Michael, please. I beg of you. Please don't show up in front of me again. Will you do that? What do I have to do to get you to leave me be? Or are you trying to chase me out of the country again?”

I looked into his eyes and lost control of my voice. I could tell my tone was getting more and more agitated as I spoke. My mind kept showing me the memory of how he helped clean me up. The tenderness he showed... It truly worried me. I honestly didn't know how to deal with him.

He looked into my eyes, but he didn't respond. Still, I could see the disappointment and pain in his eyes. I wasn't sure if that was just an illusion, though. Are his eyes even capable of showing that kind of emotion?

“I won't show up for the next few days, and I'll give you some time to cool off. However, you should know that you will only ever be mine. No other man will ever have you.”

Michael spoke in a domineering tone, and his eyes shone with determination.

Looking into his eyes and sensing his resolution, I knew he wasn't joking about anything, and I panicked. I didn't know how to interact with him when his eyes were glowing that way.

The silver lining was that he claimed he wouldn't show up for the time being. That allowed me to sigh a breath of relief because, at the very least, we wouldn't have any contact for the next few days.

Michael carried me out of the tub afterward and wrapped me up in a towel. Then, he placed me on the bed. I kept quiet the entire time.

I assumed he would leave after setting me down on my bed, but he rested beside me instead and closed his eyes.

Speechlessness engulfed me as I stared at the man. Just moments ago, he promised he would leave me alone for the time being. Has he already forgotten what he said? Fuming, I glared at Michael and wished that he would recall the promise he made earlier when we were in the showers.

It seemed he couldn't sense my glare, though, as he kept on resting with his eyes closed. He might actually have forgotten that there was someone there with him.

I frowned. I wanted to remind him of the promise, but I didn't want to talk to him, so I gave up on that thought.

Too much had happened that day, and I truly was exhausted, so I fell asleep soon after.

When I woke up the next morning, I thought I would see Michael still sleeping beside me, but surprisingly, he was gone. I sighed a breath of relief. I guess today's the day he stops showing up.

Just then, my phone rang. I picked it up and realize Michael had sent me a text. The relief I felt earlier faded, and I panicked once more. Didn't he say he'll stop getting in touch with me for a few days? He

just left this morning, so why is he texting now?

Despite my anxiety, I opened the text and read the content. He told me to take the time to readjust my emotions and said he wished he wouldn't have to see my sorrow the next time we meet.

Warmth spread out in my heart when I saw his text. I knew he had an ulterior motive, but I couldn't stop myself from loving him.

When I showed up at the office, everyone was gossiping. The bits I overheard suggested that they were talking about Nicholas, and I recalled what he did to me last night at his place. That made me feel a little angry.

If we were as close as we used to be, I would go ask how he was doing and check up on him. However, I had no intention of caring for him whatsoever at that moment.

I didn't know why, but I kept getting the feeling that everyone was staring at me. Did they find out what Nicholas did to me last night?

No, that's not possible. It happened at Nicholas' place, so there's no way they'd know anything about it. I must be overthinking it.

When I reached my office, I sat down and focused on my work. I didn't want to think about all the drama, but fate had a funny way of making things come to me.

Nicholas didn't knock on the door before he entered my office. When I saw him there, I frowned angrily.

I was disappointed with him after what happened last night and seeing him only infuriated me more.

“I thought you'd skip work today, Anna. I tried calling you, but you never picked up.”

Nicholas' voice was filled with anxiety, and the way he looked at me suggested that he was nervous.

I tilted my head up and scanned the guy. He looked a little off. Or rather, he was downright disheveled. The injury Michael inflicted on him yesterday was still in plain sight.

“What are you doing here?”

I glared over icily and made sure I used my stoic voice when I spoke.

I didn't even bother looking at him. Just thinking about what he did last night left me drowning in anger. I regarded him as a friend and trusted him. That was why I went to his place to cook for him, only to have him do something so heinous to me in return.

That incident had changed the way I treated him, and all I felt was disgust when I saw him.

“As I said, I thought you'd skip work today, Anna.”

He seemed guilty when he looked at me, and his eyes were shining with shame. I knew why he repeated that sentence, and it seemed he had realized he made a mistake.

“This is my workstation, so why wouldn't I be here?”

I stared icily at him. I didn't want to think about what happened last night because he would likely have raped me if I hadn't fled in time.

Nicholas' expression shone with even more guilt when he saw how stoic I was. The way he looked at me also told me that he was ashamed of himself.

“I should apologize for what happened last night. I was impulsive and did something evil. There was no excuse, but Anna, please trust me. I honestly didn't mean to hurt you. It's just... I love you too much, and I couldn't control myself for a moment there. That's the only reason that happened...”

Nicholas looked into my eyes and was nervously explaining the situation.

I frowned a little and ignored him completely. If a random apology was all it took to make up for a mistake like that, then world peace would already be a reality.