"We should get a divorce."
Claire had just returned from the hospital when Gilbert Watson stepped out of the bathroom. He was wrapped in a deep navy bathrobe, loosely tied at the waist. A few strands of hair fell over his forehead, lending him a lazy allure. Beneath the robe, his sculpted chest and firm waist, paired with those strikingly handsome features, were nothing short of perfection.
"Divorce?" Claire's mind buzzed, going completely blank.
In the three years of their marriage, divorce had never once crossed her mind. She had devoted herself entirely to him.Loving him with all her heart, managing the powerful Watson family with flawless care.
"No. I won't divorce you," she blurted out stubbornly, her face pale.
Gilbert paused, his tone softening a little.
"Name your terms, whatever you want, I'll give it to you. But don't overstep. Don't be greedy."
A bitter smile touched Claire's lips.
Lately…
She had heard that Emma had returned to Heidelberg.
"Why? Is it because of Emma?" She bit her lip, tilting up her small, delicate face with an unyielding gaze.
Gilbert's charming features turned cold and sharp in an instant. He raised his hand and harshly gripped her chin.
"Claire, my personal life is none of your business. Know your place. To me, you're just a housekeeper. I have never loved you."
Bruises formed immediately on Claire's chin, the pain sharp as if dislocated. But instead of letting go, Gilbert's fingers tightened even more.
Her lips turned purple from the pain, and her heart felt as though it had been whipped raw, bleeding.
Just then, his phone rang.
Gilbert glanced down with a chill in his eyes. At the sight of the caller ID, he suddenly released her chin. A rare softness flashed across his face as he quickly answered.
"Mm, don't move. Lie down and wait for me. I'll be right there." With a gentle command, he hung up and strode to the walk-in closet.
Moments later, he reappeared, impeccably dressed in a suit and tie, rushing out the door.
"Gilbert, I need to talk to you." Claire, snapping out of her daze, fought through the heartache and quickly chased after him, grabbing his arm tightly.
The doctor had told her today,her mother, Miki Shao, was in the final stage of uremia. They had to find a matching kidney as soon as possible.
She had come home to discuss her mother's illness with Gilbert. After all, in Heidelberg, he was still her husband and her only support.
"Whatever it is, wait until I get back."
Impatient, Gilbert forcefully yanked her hand off.
She must be up to one of her little tricks again. So annoying.
Without another word, he flung open the door and stormed out like a gust of wind.
Claire was thrown to the ground. By the time she struggled to her feet, Gilbert was already gone.
She collapsed on the floor, tears streaming uncontrollably down her face.
In front of the presidential suite at St. Heaven Hotel.
Claire stood pale and trembling, but her eyes burned with determination.
Gilbert had been gone for three whole days and nights.
He had been here the entire time with the woman he truly loved: Emma.
Claire had just received a call from the doctor—her mother had fallen unconscious.
In all of Heidelberg, no one wielded more power or influence than Gilbert Watson. Without his help, there was simply no way she could secure a matching kidney in time.
For her mother's life, she had no choice but to beg him. Even if it meant getting down on her knees, she was willing.
Raising her hand, she reached for the keycard and swiped.
Suddenly,the door swung open.
A strong, muscular arm shot out, yanking her inside.
The next moment,she was slammed hard against the wall.
Gilbert's heated, solid body pressed forcefully against hers. He lowered his head and seized her lips in a searing kiss. His hands tore at her dress, his voice thick and fervent:
"Give yourself to me."
Without waiting, he swept her into his arms and carried her straight to the bed.