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Chapter 7: Lies

Author: celestialhope
last update Last Updated: 2025-10-31 13:12:10

The rain poured in sheets. The glass walls of the penthouse glowed faintly with the reflection of lightning. Celine stood by the doorway, barefoot, wrapped in a thin robe that barely shielded her from the chill.

Her eyes found him instantly, Duke Austen, seated on the balcony, motionless in the downpour. His suit jacket was discarded beside him, his white shirt plastered to his skin. A half-empty glass of whiskey dangled loosely from his fingers.

She hesitated before stepping out. “You’ll catch pneumonia sitting there.”

He didn’t turn. “I’ve survived worse.”

Celine exhaled, stepping into the rain. “Losing a business deal isn’t the end of the world, Duke."

Duke gave a humorless laugh. “For people like you, maybe not.” She sighed first, feeling how important his business is for him, slowly making her realize while he is willing to waste her money just to find a fake wife.

Her jaw tightened. “People like me?”

He glanced at her finally, his eyes shadowed. “People who still
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