?<strong>Chapter 501:</strong>


    Jake contemted for a moment. “He’s naive. Regardless, the viin in this scenario is him, and you’re merely a pawn between them. You won’t offend yton. Don’t stress about it.”


    Kallie’s heart warmed slightly at his words, but she pouted, “Even without your help, I can handle myself.”


    Jake said nothing in response. Instead, with a firm press of his long legs, the horse abruptly bolted. The sudden movement startled Kallie, and her face paled with fear. She longed to turn and hide in Jake’s embrace.


    Sensing her anxiety, Jake didn’t slow the horse but gently held her hand as she gripped the reins tightly. He leaned in to speak softly near her ear. “Breathe steadily, focus on your posture, and keep a firm hold on the reins. There’s nothing to fear.”


    Guided by Jake’s calm instructions, Kallie’s fear gradually subsided. She began to enjoy the rush of the wind and the earthy fragrance of the racecourse, her mood lifting. From a distance, yton watched Kallie’s bright smile beside Jake, frowning.


    His assistant, noting yton’s distraction, leaned in and whispered in his ear. “It seems Mr. Jack has developed a fondness for Miss Nixon, but there’s not much we can do about that.


    Even though Miss Nixon is remarkable, she’s not the only exceptional woman out there. You’re on the lookout for a life partner. Given your status and capabilities, you will undoubtedly find a suitable match.”


    yton clenched his fists, his heart heavy. “If I told you my interest in Kallie goes beyond just marriage convenience? I’m intrigued by her, and I genuinely want to get to know her better. That’s why I can’t allow Mr. Jack to have her.”


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    After the horse ride, Kallie was surprised to find yton still waiting. yton was intent on taking Kallie for a stroll around the estate, and Jake quietly trailed behind them, uninvited.


    yton’s patience was thin, and he shot an irritated nce back at Jake over his shoulder. “Mr. Jack, do you have any other business here?”


    Jake grinned cheekily. “That is a peculiar question. Whatever you intend to do, I want to do as well. Our thoughts align.”


    yton’s face turned pale with annoyance, silently cursing Jake under his breath.


    The afternoon slipped by quickly, and soon, it was time for the evening banquet. Luckily, Kallie had packed an extra outfit for the asion.


    Typically, such banquets were attended by couples. yton had initially assumed Kallie would be hispanion; however, Jake was still lingering close by.


    Before yton could speak, Jake gently took Kallie’s hand, smiling charmingly. His voice, smooth andpelling, caught everyone’s attention. “Miss Nixon, would you do me the honor of being mypanion tonight? I came alone this time, unlike yton, who’s surrounded by friends and could easily find another partner.”


    Kallie’s lips twitched, half-amused. The rivalry between them was fierce, and she had never seen this side of Jake before. yton, refusing to back down, said, “We should let Kallie decide.”


    Still holding Kallie’s hand, Jake squinted at yton with an almost oppressive gaze. “Do you really think she has the audacity to say no to me?”


    Caught between them, Kallie frowned and shook her head at yton, her cheeks flushed. “I’m sorry, yton, but I have to consider my circumstances. I’m raising my child on my own, and I can’t afford to offend the wrong people.”


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