Ch. 121..130

Chapter 121 Selena immediately spoke up, "Hey, do you know about first come, first served? I saw that necklace first!"

Sophia blinked, a smile spreading across her face as she looked at Aveline. "Perhaps you should ask Miss Young if she understands. first come, first served."

"You!"

Selena was furious, pointing at Sophia's nose. "Why are you putting on a show? Do you think Aveline cares about this? You should be talking to the one who refuses to divorce, not taking it out on Aveline!" Sophia's smile only grew. "Miss Quin, don't you know? The reason Lucas hasn't divorced Miss Young is to protect me. As long as Miss Young carries the title of Mrs. Tudor, I won't be in danger."

"Shameless!"

Selena was about to explode and turned to the silent, stern-faced. man. "Is what she said true? Is that really what you're thinking?"

Lucas, dressed in a black suit and exuding an air of cold elegance, looked at Selena with his emotionless eyes. "It's just a necklace. Resorting to shouting when you can't get what you want where are your man Selena scoffed. "My manners are reserved for those who deserve them. For people like you? Ha!"

She laughed scornfully at them.

Sophia's eyes flickered as she took the necklace off and handed it to Selena. "Miss Quin, there's no need to act this way. It's just at necklace, I don't need it."

Selena pushed her hand away. "Get lost! I don't want anything you've touched!"

In the next moment, Sophia fell backward, her face filled with fear!

Lucas caught her, his expression turning icy. "Are you looking for trouble?"

An invisible pressure spread through the air, a chilling coldness seeping into everyone's bones, making them tense.

Selena was about to say something more, but Aveline pulled her back, stepping in front of her. "Was Selena wrong?"

Lucas' cold gaze fell on Aveline. Her clear eyes held a hint of frost as she looked at him, her expression calm and unyielding.

The two of them stood there, neither backing down.

Sophia's eyes flickered again, and she suddenly grabbed Lucas' hand. "Lucas, my leg hurts..."

Lucas' face turned even colder as he glared at Selena. "Apologize."

Aveline interrupted, "Why should she apologize? Selena didn't push her. Miss Winter is the one acting so fragile. If she's that delicate, maybe she should stay home. A gust of wind might blow her away!" "Aveline!" Lucas' voice was deep and stern as he looked at her.

Aveline lifted her chin defiantly. "I'm listening, what is it?"

The tension in the air was palpable, ready to explode at any moment.

She still remembered the grudge from last night! That jerk had his way with her and then left, and now he was out shopping with another 1. an. Did he really think she was that magnanimous?

She was determined to make the situation uncomfortable for them.

Sophia's eyes suddenly filled with tears as she looked at Aveline. "Miss Young, what did I do wrong? Why are you saying such things about me? My leg ended up like this because I saved Lucas." Aveline's gaze was icy. "So, what does that have to do with me?"

Sophia's eyes glistened with tears. "Miss Young, you're being unreasonable."

Aveline let out a derisive laugh. "So, snatching something from someone else as soon as you walk in is considered reasonable?"

Sophia found herself at a loss for words against Aveline!

This woman was too infuriating!

Chapter 122 Lucas' lips pressed into a straight line, his eyes fixed on Aveline. "You're not going to apologize?"

Aveline felt a wave of pressure settle over her heart.

She feared nothing and had no attachments, but Selena was different.

She could hold her own against Sophia, but when Lucas spoke, she was instantly at a disadvantage.

She was clearly not the favored one.

The defiance in Aveline's eyes faded, replaced by a trace of self mockery and bitterness.

"Lucas, are you sure you want to do this?"

To humiliate her again and again?

To make her feel utterly ashamed and humiliated?

Lucas' voice was low and magnetic, his tone cool and detached. "What do you think?"

Aveline closed her eyes, then nodded. "Fine, I understand."

She turned to Sophia, about to apologize, but Selena stopped her.

"Ave, don't bow to people like them. I'm not apologizing. Let's see if he can really do anything to me!"

Selena wrapped her arm around Aveline's shoulder. "Come on, we don't need that stupid necklace. I'll get you something even better!"

Aveline frowned. "Selena..."

Selena smiled brightly, her face full of confidence. "It's fine. Let's go.

Aveline felt uneasy.

Lucas was cold and ruthless. If he targeted Selena, what would happen to her?

She wanted to look back, but Selena prevented her.

Once they were out of the mall, Selena said, "Ave, I couldn't let your lower your head for those jerks."

Aveline worried, "But he will definitely target you."

Lucas was ruthless with her; he would be even more so with someone else.

Selena laughed it off. "No worries. Worst case, I'll go abroad. He can't reach me there, right?"

"But..."

"Enough," Selena interrupted. "Stop overthinking. Let's keep shopping. Later, we'll go have steak. I found a great place and want you to try it."

Aveline bit her lip, her clear eyes shimmering slightly.

In the jewelry store, Sophia still looked pale. She turned to Lucas." Lucas, that Selena was so arrogant. Who exactly is she?"

Lucas didn't answer her question. Instead, he asked, "Do you still want the necklace?"

Sophia glanced at the necklace on the floor and bit her lip. "Since Miss Young likes it, why don't you buy it for her to calm her down? It'll keep her from causing trouble. She looked understanding and gracious, her demeanor soft and kind.

Lucas turned to the salesperson. "Wrap it up."

The salesperson hesitated for a moment before quickly nodding and picking up the necklace.

She couldn't help but think, What a day! The scene she had just witnessed made her worry about the necklace's fate. Why did it deserve to be thrown to the ground?

After paying, Lucas held the shopping bag and looked at Sophia. "Is your leg still hurting?"

Sophia shook her head. "It's not hurting anymore. I think I just lost my balance earlier. I'm fine now."

Lucas said, "Do you see anything else you like?"

Sophia smiled warmly. "Lucas, I'm more excited about what you choose for me. Anything you give me, I will cherish."

Lucas' eyes were deep and unreadable. "I'll take you home."

Sophia hesitated. "Aren't we going to have dinner?"

Lucas replied, "Something came up. I need to go to the office."

Sophia bit her lip. "Alright, but don't worry about what happened today. A little pain is nothing. Please don't take it out on Miss Quin."

Chapter 123 Lucas' eyes darkened momentarily, then he said, "I'll have someone. take you home."

Sophia nodded. "Alright."

The driver arrived quickly, and after ensuring Sophia was in the car, Lucas took out his phone and made a call.

"Find a time to catch Selena."

After finishing their steaks, Aveline and Selena wandered around the night market, their moods significantly lifted. Aveline linked arms with Selena and sighed. "Selena, maybe you should go abroad."

Selena shook her head. "No way, I'm staying here to keep you company and protect you from that jerk."

Aveline joked, "Maybe I should marry you instead."

Selena laughed. "Yes, yes, yes!"

Aveline smiled.

"Fancy seeing you here."

A playful voice interrupted them. They turned to see Russell, with his signature blue hair, smiling as he approached.

Aveline was surprised. "Mr. Skyler, you're here too?"

Russell replied, "I'm a regular here. The pasta over there is great. Mention my name and you'll get a discount."

Aveline teased, "Really? I might just check that out."

Russell grinned mischievously. "Not just the pasta shop. The dessert place and the barbecue wing spot too. Just drop my name." Aveline didn't actually go but said, "Wow, Mr. Skyler, you have quite the connections. I guess I'll save a lot on food here."

Selena added, "Looks like I can benefit from knowing you too, Mr. Skyler,"

Russell laughed. "Want to head to my place?"

He meant his bar.

Selena's eyes lit up. "Is there something new?"

Russell said, "You'll see when we get there."

Selena looked at Aveline eagerly. "Let's go! I want to see the new show!"

Aveline nodded, "Alright, let's go!"

The group left the night market and got into a car, heading towards the bar.

The bar was already bustling with people, colorful lights flashing, and the DJ on stage noticed Russell immediately and stepped aside for him.

Russell looked at the bar manager and signaled, "Get them some nice drinks that won't get them drunk."

The manager quickly nodded. "Yes, boss."

Aveline's eyes lit up. "So, you're the owner here? Does this mean I've got an inside connection now?"

Russell grin Absolutely. And not just an inside connection; you can get as close as you want."

713 Selena teased, "Oh, really now."

Aveline shot her a glance, then tumed back to Russell. "I can't do that. If your girlfriend finds out, she'll eat me alive." Russell's smile faded slightly, and his charming face med serious. "I don't have a girlfriend, so don't spread rumors." Selena gave a knowing look Aveline changed the subject. "What's the new soon?

Russell gave her a deep look and said, "Tonight, I'll be dancing on stage"

"Wow!"

Selena covered her mouth. "I've heard you're an amazing dancer, and now I finally get to see it."

Russell added, "But I need a dance partner. No partner, no dance."

As he spoke, he fixed his gaze on Aveline.

Aveline felt a bit helpless. She was married, after all! If she were single, she would have agreed.

Selena nudged her. "Ave, I remember you can dance. Be Russell's dance partner, please! I'll do anything you want if you let me see him dance!"

Chapter 124 Aveline looked at her. "I want you to take back what you said."

Selena shook Aveline's arm, pleading, "Ave, please, come on, please..."

Aveline couldn't resist Selena's pleading, and her heart softened. "Alright." Selena beamed with joy and turned to Russell. "When does it start?"

Russell replied, "No rush, I'll come find you in a bit. You two enjoy yourselves for now."

With that, he turned and left.

Selena and Aveline sat in the best seats, and the waiter began bringing over drinks and fruit platters. Aveline held her glass, looking at the brightly colored drink inside. "I suddenly regret this."

Wasn't this just asking for trouble?

She already had enough problems, and if she got Russell involved, things could get even messier. Selena said, "Ave, you're overthinking it. It's just a dance. When was the last time you danced?"

Aveline sighed. "I'm not up to it anymore, I'm too old for this."

Selena laughed. "Just do it to make me happy."

Aveline gave her a resigned look. "It's too late to back out now.

Selena smile. dely, raising her glass for a toast.

As time passed, the bar grew more lively. When a group of guys left the stage, the lights suddenly went out.

In the next moment, Aveline felt her wrist being grabbed. Startled, she asked, "Who is it?"

"It's me," Russell's amused voice came through as he led her onto the stage.

"Aveline, focus on dancing."

Russell placed one hand on her waist.

Aveline tensed up for a moment but soon forced herself to relax.

How long had it been since she danced?

She had been so busy that she had abandoned her hobbies.

Now, with Lucas tormenting her in every possible way, she felt like her life was no longer her own. What else was there to care about?

The image of Lucas defending Sophia flashed through her mind, causing a dull ache in her chest. But she quickly adjusted her emotions, a smile appearing on her face. "Alright." She agreed.

The music started to play.

Her eyes lit up; it was a song she had danced to before, and she remembered it well.

The crowd went wild when they saw Russell on stage, especially the girls, who screamed non-stop!

The song's rhythm was fast and powerful, and Aveline quickly matched Russell's steps, even seeming to surpass him at times.

At that morient, a group of people entered the bar.

Aaron, with his hands in his pockets, remarked, "Lucas, you haven't changed in two years. You still avoid lively places like this. Why do you always want to go home?"

Lucas walked beside him, his expression cold and indifferent, ignoring Aaron's comments.

Aaron glanced at the bustling bar and clicked his tongue. "What a great atmosphere! Those two dancing over there are pretty good, especially the guy. The way he looks at the girl, you can almost see the spark Lucas instinctively looked at the stage. Seeing the two dancers, his face immediately darkened.

At that moment, the song reached its final beats. Russell held Aveline by the waist, and Aveline dramatically tossed her head back, her arm hooking around Russell's neck. Their eyes locked, and an indescribab "Wow!"

The crowd erupted into cheers.

Aaron patted Lucas on the arm. "Those two are great together. They have real chemistry. What do you think about signing them? They'd be a hit in no time."

Turning his head, he saw that Lucas' expression was stormy.

Chapter 125 Aaron jumped back in surprise, quickly pulling his hand away.

Whoa, what's with that expression? Are you looking to sign with my company too?"

Lucas glared at the two on stage for a long moment before shifting his gaze to the front-row seats. "Brian."

Brian immediately stepped forward. "Yes, Mr. Tudor." Lucas said coldly, "Take Selena to the private room." With that, he turned and headed toward the staircase.

Brian nodded and walked toward the front-row seats.

Aaron was stunned. "Wait, what's going on? Who's Selena? Why are you grabbing her? Lucas, don't just walk away, answer me."

Selena was clapping enthusiastically, her voice hoarse from cheering, her face glowing with excitement. This was incredible! The chemistry between Russell and Aveline on the dance floor was electric. She was Just then, a young man with a serious expression approached her. Miss Quin, Miss Young is waiting for you backstage."

Selena blinked. "Why did she go backstage?"

The young man shook his head. "I don't know."

Selena stood up. "Alright, let's go!"

Brian led her upstairs. As they ascended, the noise from below gradually faded, and they found themselves in a corridor lined with private rooms.

Selena paused, her eyes narrowing with suspicion. "This doesn't look like the backstage area."

She turned to leave, but Brian grabbed her arm, opened a private room door, and pulled her inside.

When Aveline returned, she found Selena's seat empty. She frowned and took out her phone to call her, Russell approached, having taken off his jacket after the dance, now wearing a black tank top that showcased his defined arm muscles. Selena didn't answer the phone.

Aveline's frown deepened. Did Selena go to the restroom and not hear her phone?

Russell noticed her concern and asked, "What's wrong?"

Aveline replied, "Selena's missing."

Russell said, "Come with me to the security room. Let's check the surveillance footage."

Aveline looked at him gratefully. "Thank you so much."

Russell smiled warmly. "No need to thank me. We're friends now, right?"

"Yes, we are."

They went to the security room and checked the footage focused on Selena's location.

When Aveline saw Brian, her expression immediately turned icy. Lucas' man had taken Selena!

Was Lucas planning to retaliate against Selena for Sophia's sake?

No way! She wouldn't allow that to happen!

Aveline took out her phone and looked at the number she had blocked. Pressing her lips together, she unblocked it and dialed.

The line was busy for three rings before the call was abruptly cut off.

She called again, and it was cut off again.

On the fifth attempt, the call finally connected.

Aveline silently cursed Lucas but kept her voice as calm as possible. Lucas, did you take Selena? Where is she?"

Lucas' deep, magnetic voice responded, "A12,"

Then he hung up.

Aveline closed her eyes, struggling to control her emotions.

Russell asked, "Was it Lucas who took Selena?"

Aveline exhaled deeply and looked at him. "Yes, I know where she is now. I'm going to find her. Thank you for your help, Mr. Skyler. You can go back to what you were doing."

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turned out to be laucas' man. How infuriating!

Brian remained expressionless, seemingly unaffected by her words.

"Let her go!" Aveline demanded, pushing Brian away.

Brian stepped back and looked at Lajcas.

Lucas gave him a cold glance.

Brian immediately lowered his head, his expression even more impassive.

Aaron watched the drama unfold with a gleeful smile. “Lucas, this lady seems very familiar to me. She has quite the chemistry with you. Could she be your wife?" Lucas replied coldly, "You're quite perceptive."

Aaron chuckled. "Well, what can I say? My company is full of stars and actors, all discovered by these eyes of mine. I can tell if someone will be a hit the moment I see them. And you know what? I'm never wron Lucas shot him a frosty glance before turning his attention back to Aveline. "Aveline, have I ever denied you food or clothing? And yet, here you are, performing in a bar?"

His tone was icy, and his words were even more cutting.

Aveline met his gaze with a cold smile. "You haven't denied me food or clothing, but you're taking my life bit by bit. Life is short, and I'm just trying to enjoy it while I can. Since I'm already a shield for Sophia, car As she shed, Selena erupted, "Jerk! I've never met anyone more despic.. than you. When Ave found you by the roadside, she should have left you to starve. Taking you home was the worst decision ever!" "Estat, Thit her in us mietid Stian immediae meretresaining Selena Sveine's expressime even colder. "What are you doing? It Wann have a poznam, sake it out onthel Why are you targeting her?"

Takes ont gate served on her. ""Take it out on you? What do you Aveline seached with anger, wishing she could slap him across the Face. But she couldnt Selene was still there, and Brian was Lucas Than. With just one command from Lures. Selena could get hurt.

Chapter 127 Aveline clenched her fists, her gaze sweeping over the assortment of drinks on the table.

She walked over and stood opposite Lucas, taking a deep breath. before saying, "Lucas, you're doing this to vent for Sophia, but Selena is here because of me. How about this: I'll drink all of these, and you lea Lucas' eyes stared at her coldly for a long moment without saying a word. Aveline smiled faintly, then grabbed a bottle, unscrewed the cap, and started drinking. The sharp taste burned her throat, making her co Lucas didn't stop her; he just watched, his gaze dark and complicated.

"Ave!" Selena's eyes widened as she struggled to move closer but was held back by Brian. "Let go of me! Let me go!"

Selena's voice was tinged with tears as she glared at Lucas, but she didn't dare insult him further. Aveline was doing this for her sake; if she antagonized Lucas now, all of Aveline's efforts would be in vain. Aaron watched the scene, the lazy smile fading from his face as he looked at Lucas. "Are you serious about this?"

Lucas' lips tightened into a line as he watched Aveline finish one bottle and open another. Frustrated, he barked, "That's enough!"

Aveline abruptly put the bottle down, closing her eyes for a moment before asking with difficulty, "Do you agree?"

Suddenly, Lucas stood up, reaching across the table to grip her chin, forcing her to look up at him. "Aveline, don't you have anything else to say?"

The alcohol hit her quickly. Aveline's face was already turning red as she stared at Lucas, a silent laugh escaping her lips. "I have nothing more to say to you."

It was as if all sound had vanished, leaving only the pounding of her heart. Tiny fractures seemed to appear within, accompanied by a sharp pain that tore at her senses. Lucas' eyes darkened ominously. He glared at Aveline, releasing her chin with a cold laugh. "If she dares to cause trouble, she should be prepared to face the consequences. Aveline clutched the bottle. "What do you mean?"

Was he not going to spare Selena?

Lucas turned to Aaron. "Are you in need of models? What do you. think of her?"

Aaron blinked, instinctively glancing at Selena. "Not bad. Her physical attributes are excellent."

Lucas said, "Sign her up, but only for the lowest-tier modeling jobs."

"Lucas!" Aveline was on the verge of losing her temper. "Do you even know what you're doing? This is between us! What does she have to do with it?"

Lucas stared at her coldly. "What does she have to do with it? What gives her the right to criticize me?"

Aveline felt as if she had plunged into an ice pit, the chill spreading through her bo "". Despite drinking two bottles of alcohol, she couldn't feel any warmth. Selena gritted her teeth. "Ave, don't beg him. He's nothing but an ingrate! I'll be fine!"

Lucas looked at Brian. "Dislocate her jaw."

"Yes, sir."

Brian raised his hand to grab Selena's jaw, but she bit down on his thumb with all her strength.

"Ugh!"

Brian growled in pain, immediately letting her go.

Chapter 128 "Does it matter?"

Lucas leaned back, his demeanor exuding a noble and aloof aura. His handsome and sharp features were masked by a calm and indifferent expression, making it impossible to discern his emotions.

Selena gritted her teeth, but facing him like this, she couldn't utter a single curse.

What a shameless person!

Aveline held Selena's hand. "It's okay, it's okay..."

It was as if she was comforting both Selena and herself.

She looked at Lucas. "If you have a problem, come at me. Don't make things difficult for Selena."

After saying that, she turned around and pulled Selena away.

Lucas watched her back coldly, his eyes gradually filled with a complex and profound look.

Even after they left, the room remained filled with an oppressive atmosphere.

Aaron clicked his tongue twice. "I say, kid, aren't you being difficult?

Lucas looked at him. "You think you know everything."

Aaron sneered. "Heh... Do you think I didn't notice? Since you walked in, your eyes haven't left her. All you wanted was for her to say something nice, but what happened? She's just as stubborn and would rath Lucas res onded coldly, "You're overthinking. To me, she means gned at him, suddenly asking, "Do you really like Sophia?"

Gances thin reply. Instead, he picked up a bottle and poured himself rink Brwoning it in one go Brian walked on, looking at his hand, and hesitantly asked, "ME Tuàm,, Should I get a radies shot?"

Dacas replied. "Get lost."

Brian fell silent.

eating the bar, the cold wind hit Aveline, and she briefly felt a wave She quickly moved to a trash can and started to vomit.

Selena stayed by her side, patting her back with eyes full of concern. emity did you drink so much? He's just doing this to spite us. But that Miss Winter, he'll do anything! Aveline vomited until her stomach was empty and only then did she "Can you get me a bottle of water?"

"Sure."

Selena responded immediately and went to the nearby supermarket to buy water.

Aveline sat on a bench by the roadside, letting the cold wind blow on her, trying hard not to think about those things. Those things that made her sad and upset. Tonight's issues weren't resolved. He let them go, but that didn't mean it was over. He might still cause trouble for Selena.

Selena quickly returned, opening the water and handing it to her. Ave, bere."

Aveline took a sip and then looked at her. "Selena, you should leave Cloudflare City. If he can't find you, he can't target you."

Selena felt a bit sad. "But if I leave, what about you?"

Aveline smiled lightly. "I'm all alone, what do I have to fear?"

Selena hugged her. "I can't leave. If I see him, I'll just avoid him. I can't leave you alone. If I had known he was like this, I wouldn't have gone abroad."

She had been abroad for three months, and when she returned, Aveline seemed like a completely different person, all because of that scumbag Lucas! Aveline chuckled. "Can you really hold back?"

Selena nodded. "I can, I definitely can. If worse comes to worst, I'll just curse him after he walks past."

Aveline was amused, but she didn't bring up the topic again.

Aveline, Selena."

At this moment, Russell's voice came.

10 Over The two looked up and saw him with a coat draped over his shoulder, looking puzzled. "What are you doing here?"

Chapter 129 Aveline looked up at Russell, giving him a slight smile. "I found Selena. We were just about to head back."

Russell replied, "Great, I'll give you a ride."

Aveline shook her head. "No need, I've already called a car. Thanks anyway."

Selena said, "We can cancel the ride. It's no trouble for Mr. Skyler to drop us off, so thank you, Mr. Skyler."

Russell's handsome and mischievous face lit up with amusement. With Selena saying that, are you still going to refuse me?"

H Aveline gave Selena a helpless look.

Selena, however, winked at her, her expression inscrutable.

They got into the car.

Aveline leaned against the window, staring blankly at the night outside.

Russell, driving, glanced at her through the rearview mirror and asked, "What happened? Maybe I can help."

Selena looked at him, thought for a moment, and suddenly asked, "Do you know any reliable lawyers, especially those good at divorce cases?"

"Selena!"

Aveline immediately grabbed her hand, "Don't say that. I'm not thinking about it right now."

Selena looked at her, hesitating to speak further.

Russell chuckled softly and said, "I do, actually. If you need one, I Aree sid. "ank you."

Selena sighed helplessly beside her Even the station, couldn't she accept some help? Did she truly want to deal with that sambag Lacas every day?

Aveline closed her eyes, saying nothing more. Her mind was hazy, and she drifted off to sleep.

When she woke up again, the car had stopped. Looking around, she realized they were at Maple Garden Solena was no longer in the car. Russell's coat was draped over het.

Areine was momentmily Stamod and asked, "Where's Selena Bussel replied,. She went hom❞ Arceline rubbed her aching temples, feeding a bit embarrassal. " Sorry, I fell asleep. I hope I didn't delay you."

Russell smiled. "No it was no trouble."

Areline said. "Then go now treat you to a meal another day."

"reline."

Bussel called her mame Axeline broked at him, puzzled. "Yes, what?""

Russell got out of the cat and opened the back doon, looking at ber incandy. "Broesch von should quit your job and come work for mo I promise you wont be mistreated. Caught of gooi, velime didn't expect him to shy that ME SHOE WOND...

Russell said, "We've been through a lot together. Stop calling me Mr. Skyler. Besides, I don't need you to look up to me. Call me by my name. I prefer friends to call me by my name." Aveline bit her lip slightly, her long eyelashes trembling. She looked at him, her gaze clear. "Russell, thank you, but I have my own plans.

Russell looked at her for a moment, then chuckled. "You're pretty stubborn, aren't you? Like a mule?"

Aveline was startled, then couldn't help but laugh.

Russell said, "I live here too. Which building are you in?"

Aveline pointed to one of the buildings and said, "It's late. I'll go back now. You should rest early too."

Russell leaned on the car door with one hand. "Alright."

Chapter 130 Aveline stepped out of the car, but having drunk so much, she felt unsteady. As soon as she lifted her head, a wave of dizziness hit her, causing her to stumble instinctively.

Seeing this, Russell immediately reached out to steady her. "Are you okay?"

Aveline regained her balance and realized how close she was to Russell. She quickly withdrew her hand and smiled. "I'm fine, just a bit dizzy."

Russell frowned. "In your condition, how will you get home? Let me take you."

"No need..." Aveline shook her head, about to say more when a familiar voice sounded from nearby.

"This isn't the best spot. Why don't you head upstairs?"

Aveline and Russell turned to see Lucas sitting in a car not far away, the window rolled down, revealing his cold, grim face. His eyes were fixed on them with a dark, intense gaze.

Aveline pursed her lips, looked away, and said to Russell, "I'll go now."

Russell seemed worried. "Aveline, maybe I should..."

"No, it's fine."

Aveline gave him a faint smile, then turned and walked towards the building.

Russell watched her back for a long time before shifting his gaze.to Lucas in the car. A mocking smile curled on his lips. "Lucas, don't you have someone you love? Why not divorce her? Aren't you afraid of hurt Lucas looked at him coldly, "Why? Tired of being a bastard and want a new role as the other man?"

Russell's smile chilled, his gaze turging, dangerous, Lacas, however, didn't regard him at all, looking away indifferently and giving command to the driver. The car then moved forward.

Russell's eyes grew colder, but a mischievous smile suddenly appeared on his lips, When disappointment accumulates, letting go becomes inevitable.

Heh!

In Aveline went upstairs and headed straight to her bedroom. She submerged herself in warm water, gradually dispelling the feelings of dizziness and discomfort.

Closing her eyes, she thought about Lucas's demeanor tonight.

He was so cold and heartless, a stark contrast to the man he used to 1. be.

What was he thinking?

If he was unhappy with Selena's insults, he could have easily. avoided them by divorcing her. Why keep dragging it out?

Could it be that he really intended to use her life as a shield for Sophia?

Instinctively, Aveline didn't want to believe this reason. She felt he wasn't that kind of person.

Her though water engulf completely en new increasingly chaotic. She sank deeper, letting the allowing the sensation of suffocation to pher.

There were some disordered sounds in her ears. Aveline suddenly emerged from the water, wiped her face, and opened her eyes to see Lucas standing not far away. She was startled. "How did you get in here?"

She stared at him in disbelief.

She had changed the lock code, and only she and Selena knew the new code. How did he get in?

Lucas simply looked at her coldly. He raised his hand and loosened his collar, then pulled off his tie and tossed it aside.

Sensing danger, Aveline tried to get up and leave, but he was already in front of her. He pushed her back into the tub.