Betrayed I Upgraded to His Billionaire Brother novel Chapter 103

Chapter 103

After signing and thanking the courier, I carried the box inside. I untied the magnificent bow and lifted the lid.

Nestled within a bed of delicate black tissite paper lay a masterpiece of haute couture–an evening gown of such breathtaking beauty it made my breath catch

The fabric was a deep, jewel toned emerald silk, so rich and vibrant it seemed to swallow the light only to give it back as a subtle, luxurious shimmer

It felt like liquid coolness beneath my fingertips. The dress was impeccably constructed, its lines clean and sophisticated, promising a flawless, elegant drape. Intricate, almost imperceptible hand beading traced subtle patterns along the neckline, designed to sparkle with the slightest movement. This was more than a dress; it was a statement of pure, undeniable luxury.

Obviously from Zane.

But it was perfect for an event like an auction. If he was insisting I go, the least he could do was provide the dress.

After a quick shower. I worked with what I had: a light layer of foundation, a subtle winged liner, and a nude lip. I swept my long blonde hair over one shoulder, letting the waves cascade down.

The gown hugged every curve of my tall frame, the low back dipping daringly.

A black Maybach was already waiting. Zane leaned against the car, looking like he’d stepped from the pages of a financial magazine.

His dark hair was swept back in that impeccable style, his sharp features accentuated by the sleek gold frames of his glasses. A tailored black Brioni suit, worth more than my monthly clinic revenue, draped his broad shoulders perfectly.

When he saw me, his eyes–usually so analytical behind those lenses–lit up with genuine heat. “That dress really suits you,” he said, his voice a low

murmur.

He said it like a perfect gentleman, even opening the car door for me.

I got in first. The dress had a high slit, and when I sat down, it revealed a long stretch of pale skin. Zane’s throat moved as his gaze lingered. “Are you cold?”

I shook my head, my voice cool and even. “I’m fine.”

Both my apartment and the lobby had heating, and the car was warm, too.

He took off his expensive suit jacket, the fabric whispering with the movement, and draped it carefully over my legs. “Your period’s due soon. You should keep warm.”

I was a little surprised. The gesture felt oddly intimate, a stark contrast to the clinical distance he usually maintained.

I couldn’t quite put my finger on what was different about Zane tonight, but he was different. It was like he was finally trying to show he cared through actions, not just empty words.

I gave a small, fleeting smile, my voice softening despite my best efforts. “This is the first time you’ve given me your jacket.”

The first time he’d done something like this.

“Before…” He couldn’t deny it, his handsome face tightening slightly, “I wasn’t good enough. From now on, I’l-”

“Is the hotel far?” I smiled, cutting him off cleanly. There was no “from now on.” I didn’t need his promises.

The smile on my lips felt hollow to him, I could tell. He looked at me, his gaze softening even more behind the sophisticated glasses. “Not far. About ten

minutes.”

I’d put on makeup, which sharpened my delicate features, giving them a glow I didn’t usually have. My blonde hair seemed brighter against the

Betrayed? I Upgraded to His Billionaire Brother

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Chapter 103

emerald silk.

But I still had that natural gentleness, that quiet purity my profession demanded. Even the fine hairs on my cheeks were visible in the soft light–easy

to want to protect.

But I sat all the way on the left, with enough space between us for two more people. I was keeping my distance, both physically and emotionally.

“Elara,” he finally said, unable to hold back. He moved closer instinctively, the fine wool of his trousers brushing against my bare leg, wanting forgiveness? “You… you’re still upset with me, aren’t you?”

I didn’t know what was wrong with him. Before, surface level peace had been enough. But not today.

“No.” I’ve always been good at lying.

What was the point of being upset? At most, he’d just send a few more expensive gifts. And it would mean more drama. I’d rather spend that time seeing a few more patients at the clinic.

Before Zane could say more, the limited–edition Maybach slowed to a stop at the hotel entrance.

Zane was tall and handsome; he drew eyes the moment he stepped out, the epitome of old money and power in his bespoke suit and polished demeanor. But he seemed not to notice, patiently bending down to adjust the train of my dress for me, his long fingers deft and careful.

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