Rural Belle & Three Heirs
Chapter 70 Being Lured

It was a no-go. Even if Chloe had a thing for him, he couldn't reciprocate.

When Chloe first joined the Martin Family, he made a pact with himself that he'd never marry her. Plus, Chloe's looks just didn't do it for him. That mole on her face? Total dealbreaker. Michael shook his head and gave his temples a few slaps, trying to snap out of it.

Ever since Michael left the art show, Zara's eyes had been glued to the spot where he disappeared. Chloe, feeling helpless, patted Zara on the shoulder. "Hey, Zara, Michael's gone. Staring isn't gonna bring him back." Zara turned around with a pout and whined, "This is all your fault, Chloe. All your fault."

Chloe was taken aback by Zara's sudden accusation. "Why are you blaming me? Your idol left, it's not like I made him leave."

Zara huffed, "You're so annoying. When Michael was here, why didn't you remind me to get an autograph or a photo? Such a golden chance, and I blew it. I've liked him for so long. How could I be so dumb?" Zara was practically bouncing in frustration. Chloe just stood there, speechless.

As her best friend, Chloe had to step in. "Zara, it's just Michael. Is he really worth all this? Sure, he's okay-looking, but there are tons of guys out there who are way hotter. You can't just write off all men because of him. Cheer up. Next time, I'll introduce you to some real hunks, with chest muscles, abs, and a fit waist."

No matter how much Chloe tried, Zara wasn't budging.

But when Chloe mentioned a fit waist, she herself couldn't help but think of Grant. His strong waist hinted at some serious stamina, making her blush a little. She felt a bit flustered by the thought.

Thanks to the famous paintings Grant had collected, the Gibson family's art show was a hit. Brian not only rubbed elbows with some big shots in the business world but also landed a few major deals for the Gibson family, all thanks to the Martin Family's clout.

Around noon, Chloe wanted to bounce, but Brian and Zara's aunt Brenda insisted she stay for lunch. With Zara and Tony backing them up, Chloe couldn't say no.

During the meal, Chloe suddenly remembered that Zara had come to Sovereign City to handle some tricky stuff for Brenda and her husband. She'd heard Zara mention that someone was giving Brenda a hard time. Because of Chloe's status, Brian and Brenda treated her like royalty. Chloe, playing the humble card, insisted on sitting with Zara and Tony, saying she was just a kid compared to Brian and Brenda. Brenda, Zara's biological aunt, had grown up in the wild northwest but had mellowed out over the years. But seeing Zara and Chloe, she couldn't help but be affectionate.

Brenda asked Chloe if she was settling in okay in Sovereign City, how her studies were going, and if she needed any help. She also thanked Chloe for helping out the Gibson Group, saying that without the business Chloe brought in, the company would've had a tough time getting a foothold in Sovereign City.

Brian jumped in to express his gratitude. "Miss Davis, without your help, the Gibson Group might've gone under. I really want to thank you, but you prefer to stay low-key. As the general manager of the Gibson Group, I promise you, if you ever need anything from me or my family, just ask."

Brian's words were music to Chloe's ears. The whole reason she backed the Gibson Group and helped them get established in Sovereign City was to have an ally down the road.

Chloe waved it off. "No worries. You also went out of your way to find jobs for my classmates' parents. It's a win-win."

Because Rena stood up for Chloe, Angus and Kassy got dragged into the mess. After sorting things out, Chloe had Tony arrange jobs for Rena's parents at the Gibson Group, with salaries more than double what they made at Quest University. Brian nodded respectfully. "It's the least we could do."

Just as Brian finished speaking, the door to the private room burst open. A heavily tattooed guy with a fleshy face, flanked by a bunch of goons, barged in. Brenda, sitting next to Brian, shrank back in fear.

The guy with the fleshy face strutted into the room and shouted, "I heard someone mention win-win. What's the deal, Mr. Gibson? Got any profitable business to share? We know each other, so can you hook me up with this mutually beneficial opportunity?"

The guy's entrance totally killed the vibe.

Brian forced a smile. "Herbert, there's no business. I was just joking with the kids. You must've misheard."

Brian was clearly scared of this guy, Herbert Perez. He was visibly nervous talking to him.

Brenda, usually sharp in the business world, stood behind Brian, avoiding eye contact with Herbert.

Herbert ignored Brian and signaled his goons to force their way in and take seats. Tony, about to lose it, was stopped by a look from Zara.

Herbert made himself at home, plopping down in the main seat and reaching out to pull Brenda, his actions full of sleazy intent.

Brian couldn't stand seeing his wife humiliated. He shielded Brenda and tried to placate Herbert. "Herbert, please sit down. I'll have more dishes brought up so you and your men can eat and drink well."

Brian tried to leave with Brenda, but Herbert's goons grabbed Brian by the collar and tossed him aside. Herbert then yanked Brenda into his arms and, ignoring everyone's stares, reached for her chest.