Chapter: 813

Nikolas' expression softened. "I'll be waiting for your answer. Don't take too long."

"Okay."

Without another word, Aimee hurried away.

Initially, Nikolas had planned to take her shopping today, share a meal, and buy her some gifts. But upon waking, she had abruptly changed.

She hadn't budged an inch in her stance.

Still, she wouldn't agree to a date.

Her words seemed merely an excuse. Nikolas wasn't just some naive suitor; he knew the score.

Yet, he was growing weary of the chase. Maybe it was best for Aimee to reflect a bit. These past days hadn't seemed like him at all.

Nikolas turned and returned to the bedroom to lie on the bed. The quilt still carried the scent of Aimee. This only heightened his irritability.

Nikolas’ phone interrupted the silence with a ring. He glanced at the screen; it was Jonathan.

“Are you awake?"

"Yes." Nikolas stripped off his clothes with one hand, poised to shower. “What's up?"

"Will you be at the office today? I need you to attend the domestic shareholders’ meeting."

It was clear that sending Brody wouldn't carry the same weight; despite his competence, he was just a secretary.

With a sigh, Nikolas conceded, “Alright, I'll head back after I pack up. Have Brody send over the documents."

“Okay," Jonathan responded. “Something bothering you?"

"Nothing. It's Bethany's friend!" Nikolas grumbled, frustration evident in his voice. "I've lowered myself for her, but she just won't have it. I've always been the one being chased by women, never the chaser. When have I ever pursued someone like this?"

"She doubts your loyalty."

"Exactly!" Nikolas didn't bother hiding his feelings from Jonathan.

"I've even offered to settle down, to stop playing around. I told her I'd marry her first, try the trick you took with Bethany, and by the time our families get involved, there'd be no objections. Isn't that a happy ending for everyone?"

Jonathan cleared his throat. "It's not a trick."

"If this isn't a trick, then what is?"

Jonathan fell silent.

"Tell me, what should I do? How did you get Bethany to fall for you?"