CHAPTER 100 The First Round, I Lost

  "Stay at my place for now," I said, and everyone looked at me in surprise. Especially Lucas—his gaze was like he didn't even recognize me.

  I looked at Bethany and said generously, "You're a young girl, unfamiliar with South City. It's not safe for you to stay at a guesthouse, let alone a hotel. It would be better for you to stay at our place, that way someone can look out for you."

  Bethany looked at Lucas, a mix of anxiety and expectation in her eyes.

  "Is that really okay?" she asked.

  I could tell she was already secretly thrilled.

  Lucas took out a cigarette, lit it, and after blowing out a puff of smoke, he looked at me with a faint smile, saying, "Our house, my wife makes the decisions."

  His words subtly emphasized my position and authority in front of Bethany.

  After the meal, as we were leaving the restaurant, Natalie secretly pulled me aside.