Mia Foster spoke with seriousness: a rational woman, not only in regards to her work but also in her interactions with men, handles things with a clear head. She fancied Felix Shaw, but her affection was not based on one-sided dedication. Therefore, she set a one-year deadline for him to prove his commitment; if after a year Felix remained as nonchalant as now, she would let go of even the man she loves if he continued to lack responsibility.
However, Felix Shaw didn’t take it to heart. His affections already belonged to Elizabeth White, leaving him indifferent to other women. Even though a relationship was impossible, he still asked with a smile, "Are you very confident in yourself?"
But Mia locked eyes with his smiling, charming gaze and answered earnestly, "My confidence comes from my efforts. If they are not reciprocated, I won’t foolishly wait any longer."
It was thought to be just a harsh statement from Mia, yet unexpectedly, it turned out to be prophetic a year later.
It was also after losing her that Felix realized that some people, some feelings, are like a slow-acting poison, silently seeping into the marrow without one noticing.
From then on, he embarked on a nearly two-year long and distant journey to win back his wife.
"Okay, then win me over with your sincerity!" Felix pulled Mia toward him again. He found comfort in this straightforward woman’s company, even if it was just having a meal together occasionally.
In high spirits, Felix decided on the spur of the moment to introduce Mia to some of his close friends, "Come on, join me for a game of cards."
Mia was ushered into the passenger seat by Felix, who considerately fastened her seatbelt as well. Being introduced to his good friends was a great start; looking ahead at the road, Mia couldn’t help but curl her lips into a smile.
Half an hour later, Felix’s luxury car stopped at the club entrance. Attentively, he helped Mia unbuckle her seatbelt, and the two walked into the club together.
"Do you guys often gather here?"
In the elevator, Mia’s curiosity got the better of her. Deciding to date Felix meant getting to know him more.
"Yeah, just a few guys with nothing special to do; we get together and play cards when we’re bored." As they spoke, the elevator stopped, the doors opened, and Mia followed Felix out, just around the corner a woman hurried their way, seemingly talking on the phone, nearly bumping into them.
Felix raised an eyebrow nonchalantly at the woman, "Sis-in-law, where are you rushing off to?"
The woman merely nodded at Felix and continued to walk hastily forward while talking on the phone.
Felix casually looked back, then continued to lead Mia towards the private room.
Although curious, Mia didn’t ask further questions since Felix had not made any introductions. Smart women know men dislike nosy partners.
Following Felix into the private room, they saw three men playing cards at the table. They all stood up and put down their poker cards as the two entered. Evander Lancaster stepped forward to greet, "Hey, Third Bro, who’s this beautiful lady?"
Seeing Mia’s elegant and upscale attire different from the flamboyant types Felix usually brought, Evander also kept a respectful tone when jesting.
Mia smiled, about to introduce herself when Felix glared at Evander with dissatisfaction, "Fourth Bro, show some respect. This is your future sister-in-law."
Hearing Felix’s introduction, the other two men in the room also turned to look, while Evander stood opposite and took the chance to scrutinize Mia from head to toe.