Chapter: 399

As Bethany opened her mouth to protest, Ryan cut her off.

"You have your reasons for keeping Jonathan in the dark about your daughter. I may not know them, but it's clear there's an irreconcilable issue between you two. As long as that problem exists, I see an opportunity." Ryan leaned in closer, his voice low and persuasive. "Don't dismiss me hastily. I'll safeguard your secret. From now on, your daughter will be my daughter, and I promise Jonathan will never find out."

His words sounded like a promise, but Bethany recognized the implicit threat beneath the surface.

As a seasoned businessman, Ryan knew how to negotiate, leveraging his position to sway decisions in his favor.

Bethany had observed Ryan closely over time. Their interactions, while strictly professional, hinted at his true character. He presented himself as a carefree scion of wealth, indulging in Leisure and occasionally overseeing the company. Yet, beneath that facade lay a keen strategist, meticulously steering the company's direction.

Ryan was clear about the company's latest projects, project returns, and more. He put in extra effort to retain the company's talents, making conversations with him very engaging and accessible.

Being a playboy was merely a facade for him. No one could sense any threat from him.

Bethany refrained from interacting with someone like him. She understood she couldn't match his abilities and influence with her own.

"Ryan, I believe you see me positively because you don't know me well enough." After regaining composure, Bethany forced a polite smile and discreetly maintained some distance from him. "I believe Nikolas must have shared some details about Jonathan and me. I'm unsure if he told you I ended things with Jonathan and initiated divorce proceedings because I fell in love with someone else."

“He mentioned you had an affair," Ryan replied honestly. “But I don't believe it."

He prided himself on his ability to read people accurately.

Ryan had scrutinized Bethany closely. Otherwise, he wouldn't have pursued someone already married. His feelings for her ran deep, despite the circumstances. He wasn't someone who would easily fall in love.

“I'm being honest here. If you doubt it, Jonathan can confirm."

“I won't bring him into this. It's all in the past." Ryan understood that dwelling on this would only worsen things, so he lowered his voice and added, "I believe there's been a misunderstanding. I didn't intend anything else, nor did I use this to pressure you into being with me, ALL I want is for you to give me a chance."

Bethany pursed her lips and remained silent.

"I just need a chance. If we spend time together and discover we're not compatible, I won't push it any further. Look, we're both single now. Why are you rejecting me? Maybe if you get to know me better, you'll find me appealing."

Ryan's tone was earnest. Bethany understood that a firm rejection might irritate him.

People of higher social standing were always expected to uphold specific reputations. Persistently turning him down could spiral things out of control.

She was worried that Ryan would tell the truth to Nikolas. At that point, she wouldn't be able to manage it.

“Ryan, you know I've been swamped with the project lately. How about I tell you my decision when work settles down a bit?"

Ryan nodded in agreement and replied, "Sure, I'm happy to wait for you."

After he left, Bethany felt as though she had just emerged from a battle.

Events seemed poised to spiral beyond her grasp; she needed to strategize her next move before it was too late.

Noting Bethany's non-rejection as progress, Ryan breathed a sigh of relief.