Dumping My Fiancé For His Uncle

Chapter 196

Did Stefan not know about the relationship between Stephanie and Nicolas, or have I misjudged the situation before? Theat wondered.

Thea was uncertain, and the topic felt out of place. "Mr. Hendrix is always responsible. He will help me, but only because of our contract."

Stefan looked surprised. "Is that really what you think? But Thea, have you considered that for such a minor issue, Nicolas could have easily had someone else handle it? Why would he personally rush back from Silvercreek to take care of your attairst Thea replied without hesitation. "Although Mr. Hendrix and I are only contractually married, I'm still the daughter-in-

law of the Hendrix family in name."I represent the dignity of the Hendrix family, and Mr. Hendrix's involvement isn't solely to help me; it's also for the sake of the family

Her reasoning, while blunt, was not flawed. She didn't want to lie to Stefan. Besides, it was the truth.

Stefan simply smiled knowingly. "Nicolas never does anything he'll regret. You might not know him as well as you think. Thea, I'm not underestimating you. "When you agreed to the marriage contract, you were often oppressed by the Rowland family, and your life was hard He paused and continued. "At that time, you didn't have the leverage of holding shares in the Rowland Group like you do now. He had to deal with the troubles caused by your family. Given that, how much tangible benefit do you think you could provide to him?" Thea's lips moved slightly, wanting to explain something.

Stefan stared at her. I imagine you think Nicolas agreed to this sham marriage because he's worried about your health, but don't rush to argue. "I just want to tell you that if there weren't any feelings involved, how could Nicolas engage in such an unprofitable business deal He explained, "Like Winnie, whom you met today, She's lan's most cherished granddaughter, doted on and valued by the family. Ian has long had his eye on Nicolas, hoping he would become Winnie's husband..."

Thea fell silent. Stefan was right. With Nicolas's intelligence, he wouldn't fail to recognize the difference between a neglected daughter and a beloved daughter.

'But how could this be possible? Then wondered.

Judging by the timeline, Thea hadn't completely shaken off her past with Jake, and she hadn't had much contact with Nicolas

either.

'Does he like his nephew's girlfriend?' she thought to herself. "No way? He is the flawless heir of the Hendrix family in looks status, and wealth! It's absurd!'

Thea wouldn't even dare to think such thoughts even in her dreams. But then again, Thea felt it wasn't entirely impossible. Ever since they began spending time together, Nicolas had shown a keen interest in everything related to her. He had never missed a beat. If it weren't for that, Thea wouldn't have fallen for him so easily. Deep down, she still held onto some hope that she was special in his eyes.

However, Thea was no longer the naive girl she used to be, dreaming of love and craving affection. Her rationality quickly pulled her back from her sentimental thoughts

No matter where Nicolas's affections lay, there was always the shadow of Stephanie between them.

Tue, Nov

Chapter 196

Compared to the elusive notion of love, what mattered more towenty-six-year-old Thea was to love herself and to respect herself. Even when choosing a partner to spend her long life with, she would never accept a three-way relationship.

At that moment, there was a knock at the study door, and the voice of the butler came from outside. "Mr. Hendrix, it's time for your medication."

Thea walked over to open the door, letting Ford in.

"Alright, it's getting late. You should head back to your room and rest. As for what I just said, you might want to think it over. Thea, the decision about your future is actually in your hands... Stefan said.

After Thea left, Stefan took the medicine Ford handed him and swallowed it.

"It seems you've had an open-hearted conversation with Mrs. Hendrix," said Ford.

Stefan began. "Just pointed a few things out to her... Thea is strong-willed. Unlike those women outside who only cover the Hendrix family's wealth, she's capable, smart, and beautiful-I truly admire her. She really is a good match for Nicolas." "Mrs. Hendrix would surely be delighted to hear you speak so highly of her. She might even reconsider her marriage to Nicolas and think twice about her desire for a divorce, Ford said

Stefan shook his head. "You don't understand. She is too strong-willed; I can see that she's devoted to her feelings, and she won't tolerate any disrespect. Nicolas has indulged Stephanie out of gratitude for the life-saving help her brother gave him.

"But Stephanie is rather clueless. This afternoon, Nicolas rushed off after a phone call, and Thea definitely knows about it. It would be strange if this didn't lead to misunderstandings..."

Stefan's dissatisfaction with the situation was clear, and he waved his hand in resignation.

Ford reassured him, "I believe in Nicolas's character. He wouldnt do anything inappropriate. You called Mrs. Hendrix over earlier, right? That was to clarify things for Nicolas"

Stefan said, "People who have been through similar situations can see what's going on with these young ones, but even if 1 want to give them a push, there's a limit. "If I interfere

too much, it will only backfire. Ford, I'm getting, and my health i deteriorating. I can't be their lifelong glue. "Besides, you know Nicolas's rigid personality. Unless it's a matter of life and death, he won't ignore Stephanie.

He signed. "Nobody is perfect. Nicolas is shrewd in business but inherently struggles with emotional matters. That's what worries me the most. I can only guide him. He needs to learn to find his own solutions to problems so that his relationship with Thea can truly stabilize Ford couldn't help but express his admiration. "You care deeply for Nicolas

Stefan smiled. "What kind of parent wouldn't pave the way for their child's future?"

Back in her bedroom, Thea saw a message from Joyce apologizing and immediately called her on a video call.

"Then, are you okay? It's all my fault today. You had warned me, et I still fell for Emmalie's tricks, and now you're the one bearing the brunt of the blame.." said Joyce.

Joyce's eyes were red, and her face was a bit puffy. Given her surroundings, she seemed to be in a hotel in Key Biskane

"I understand you had your reasons. Besides, you still ended up selling me all of Emmalie's plans and stood by my side. didn't you? Joyce, I should be thanking you for your honesty in the end," said Thea.

Joyce was taken aback, her nose tinged with emotion. "You silly girl, you're my friend! 1 betrayed your trust. At that moment. I genuinely considered cooperating with Emmalie for my freedom, even if it was just once. I didn't know how to face

09:39 Je, Nov

Chapter 196

Thea smiled. "It's impossible for me to say I'm completely without discontent, but I can understand your helplessness at that time. It's only natural to have such thoughts. You don't need to feel guilty. Moreover, we haven't known each other for long- Not everyone can make sacrifices for their friends. The fact that you were able to cut your losses for my sake is already impressive."

Thea spoke sincerely. Back in high school, she had once had a frend. She had stood up for a girl who was bullied, only for that girl to team up with the bullies and turn against her, claiming that she was the real bully.

That incident was a thorn in Thea's heart and left her utterly disillusioned with friendship. Despite her previous harmful intentions toward Thea, Joyce ultimately chose her. This made Thea feel that perhaps friendship wasn't entirely untrustworthy.

Thea said earnestly, "Joyce, I know this sounds sentimental, but want to tell you that I'm very happy to be your friend." "Me, too. Just as Joyce was touched, there was a loud knocking on the door.

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