Her words fell on deaf ears as he chose to ignore her.


    Undeterred, she maintained her innocent smile and continued, “I never had any siblings growing up, you know.


    It was a rather solitary existence.


    But somehow, I’ve always felt a strange closeness to you.


    Ie from humble beginnings, and I can’t help but envy Miss Simmons for being born into a life of privilege.


    ”


    Nathan’s brow furrowed.


    He had no issue with her words until she drewparisons to Lucinda.


    She acted fragile before him and also tried to smear Lucinda?


    A dark shadow clouded his expression as he pressed his lips together, withholding any response.


    Valerie, however, remained blissfully unaware of the change in his demeanor.


    ying the role of a vulnerable child, she continued her act of innocence.


    “If only I could have a fraction of your tenderness, it would be enough.


    ”


    She possessed both beauty and a sterling reputation within the entertainment industry.


    Her allure attracted a multitude of male fans, with even affluent young gentlemen from noble families vying for her attention.


    Few men could resist her charms.


    Yet, Nathan didn’t so much as cast a nce in her direction.


    His words dripped with an icy detachment as he dered, “My love and affection belong solely to Lucinda.


    ”


    Valerie looked hurt.


    But she quickly put on a facade of strength shrouding her true emotions.


    “Oh, please don’t mind me.


    I was just joking.


    But your love for her is evident.


    She must be overjoyed.


    I can’t help but envy her.


    ”


    Once again, he chose to ignore her.


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    This plunged the car into an ufortable silence that stretched on for what felt like an eternity.


    A subtle undercurrent of embarrassment hung heavy in the air.


    A strong desire to win Nathan over ignited within Valerie.


    She decided to steer the conversation toward a different topic.


    “Mr.


    Payne, why did you choose to ride in this vehicle to the party tonight? I’ve heard rumors about your ck Shelby supercar, the exclusive limited edition that’s said to be the only one in the entire country.


    I’ve never had the pleasure of seeing it myself.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    ”


    Nathan remained silent.


    Hisck of response spoke volumes.


    That car had only two seats, with the passenger seat forever reserved for Lucinda.


    No other woman could sit on that spot.


    Since Nathan refused to utter a word, Sonny, seated in the passenger seat, chimed in on his boss’ behalf.


    “Well, you see, as the spokesperson and esteemed guest of the Payne Group, it only seems fitting to go in a corporate vehicle.


    It’s a sign of utmost respect for your position.


    ”