?Chapter 372:


    Resolved to endure no further, Elena was set on showing no more leniency, lest the Reeds keep trying to exploit her indefinitely. With a cold demeanor, Elena said, “Your anger confirms that my words struck true.”


    Benjamin clenched his teeth, on the verge of losing his temper, but Cecily restrained him. Her gaze shifted behind Elena, and a smile appeared on her face. “Mr. Lopez, you’re here.”


    Benjamin caught sight of Perry and, remembering their prior arrangements, managed to calm his fury. He approached Perry, saying, “Mr. Lopez, it’s good to see you again.”


    Perry ignored Benjamin and Cecily, his attention fixed on Elena as he assessed her. He slightly touched the corner of his mouth, his look disconcerting. “Indeed, it’s been too long. This must be Elena, more stunning than I recalled. I hardly recognized her.” Perry nodded in satisfaction.


    Cecily smiled and said, “Yes, Elena is the same age as Sylvia and still single.”


    Upon seeing Perry, Elena quickly grasped the Reed family’s scheme. Since Sylvia’s return, Benjamin had hoped to wed Elena to Perry to strengthen business ties.


    Elena had foiled such schemes from Benjamin before. She did not foresee another attempt. They apparently hadn’t learned their lesson.


    Perry, visibly impressed by Elena’s beauty and poise, nodded appreciatively. It was unclear what the Reed family had offered him, but he boldly approached Elena and said, “Even though the Reed family faces financial troubles, it doesn’t bother me. With me, you won’t need to work ever again.”


    Perry conspicuously disyed his watch, which was worth a fortune, hinting at his wealth, hoping Elena would take note.


    He thought Elena would be impressed, but he was surprised when she responded, “You’re nearly fifty, aren’t you? And you expect to marry someone in their twenties? Keep dreaming.”


    “What did you just say?” Perry’s expression grew stormy.


    Cecily hurriedly interjected, “Elena, how can you say that? Mr. Lopez is mature and knows how to cherish his beloved. Plus, he owns coal mines! Being his wife would be fortunate for you.”


    Elena’s face showed no change. “If you hold him in such high regard, why not divorce and marry him yourself?”


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    Benjamin’s expression turned grim at Elena’s words, and Cecily quickly said, “What are you saying? Mr. Lopez is someone we arranged for—”


    Cecily almost let slip that Perry was specifically arranged for Elena. Noticing the presence of guests, she managed to stop herself just in time.


    Perry let out a harsh snort, his gaze fixed on Benjamin and Cecily. “Are you trying to fool me? Since Elena refuses to marry me, our deal is off!” With that, Perry stormed off, and Cecily chased after him, grabbing his arm. She whispered so only he could hear, “Mr. Lopez, please go to the upstairs room and rest. We’ll send Elena to you very soon.”


    Perry, recalling Elena’s attractive appearance, hesitated but then said, “I’ll give you onest chance.”


    Cecily exhaled in relief and nodded quickly. “Don’t worry. Once our n pulls off, she won’t have any other choice but to consent to marry you. It’smon for people to have reservations at first. You can sort things out togetherter.”


    Convinced, Perry headed to the elevator and went upstairs.


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