I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 269

The table was already set with fresh fruit. Camila peeled an orange and held it out for Alexander. Her hand hung in the air, waiting, but Alexander didn’t bother to take it. Instead, he glanced over at Samuel Thompson, a faint, mocking smile tugging at his lips.

“Mr. Thompson, I doubt you’re bored enough to think I’d waste my time on someone who doesn’t matter.”

In Billy Firth’s office, Natalie Watson was watching everything from her tablet. She hadn’t gone to the event, so the tech team had set up a live feed for her to follow along. By accident, they switched over to the VIP room camera, letting her catch the conversation between Alexander and Samuel.

Someone who doesn’t matter...

Samuel’s smile grew sharper, a hint of sarcasm in his eyes. “You’re right, Mr. Ramirez. Natalie Watson isn’t important to you. But to me, she matters quite a bit. She gave my cousin a real chance and has always looked out for her. That means a lot to me.”

Camila awkwardly pulled her hand back. From the corner of her eye, she noticed Alexander’s hand clenching at his side, knuckles straining and veins standing out. Camila’s gaze dimmed. Bitterness crept in. They were about to get engaged, yet he was still thinking about Natalie Watson.

Alexander let out a cold laugh, his whole presence distant. “Whether she matters to you or not, I couldn’t care less.”

The VIP room felt tense, until Bruce Ward broke the silence. “Just don’t try to outbid me later. I’ve got my eye on something for Mrs. Ward.”

“Wow, look at you, finally going home and suddenly feeling all dutiful,” Alexander said, leaning back in his seat, legs crossed, looking completely relaxed.

Bruce snorted. “What do you mean, ‘suddenly’? I’ve always been a good son. Mrs. Ward gave me a heads-up that I had to come home today. Of course I’m bringing her a gift.”

“The best gift you could bring is a decent girl she can approve of,” Alexander replied, shaking his head with a smile. His eyes wandered over the crowd below, searching but not spotting Natalie anywhere.

Bruce let out a sigh. “You know what? You’re actually right. And today, I really am bringing home a proper girl.”

Samuel suddenly remembered something and pulled out his phone.

There’s an industry mixer tonight. Some important people will be there. Wait for me at the office after work, I’ll have someone pick you up.

He sent the message to Arianna Mitchell.

On the stage below, the host started warming up the audience. Just then, Samuel’s phone buzzed with a reply.

Sorry, Mr. Thompson. I have plans tonight, so I can’t make it. Thank you for thinking of me.