Second Chance: Marrying into Wealth Chapter 41

So, I pretended not to see it and directly deleted the chat history.

Nowadays, to prevent Lawrence from snooping on my phone, I delete all my WhatsApp chat history, leaving only some daily chats with Paula about clothes, jewelry, and our pet Lucky.

However, the other person's suggestion was quite good.

But I've already used the excuse of feeling unwell and going to the hospital, so I can't keep using it.

Then...

I looked at the bathroom and mustered up my courage.

I stayed in there for almost half an hour.

Letting the cold water pour over me again and again, it was also a punishment and a lesson for myself.

So, even though I was freezing, I endured it.

It wasn't until I felt a slight discomfort, a sign of an impending cold, that I stopped.

Paula once teased me, saying I was delicate, pampered by my parents, and indeed I was.

But if I want to achieve a certain goal, I can be really ruthless, especially to myself.

In the past, for a family charity event that was supposed to promote culture, I forced myself to learn the piano in a week. I mastered the basic fingerings in a short time and became very proficient with the piece, even though my fingers were blistered. I endured it and practiced day and night.

I had just put on my nightgown and was shivering when Lawrence came into my room again.

He was quick; he had taken a shower and prepared the meal.

While eating, Lawrence didn't notice my slightly flushed face and slow reactions. He was focused on asking about the financial renewal.

"Melinda, did you sign the renewal?"

I bit my tongue to stay rational, nodded, and calmly replied, "I did. What's up?"

I knew Lawrence wasn't just asking about that, so I asked back.

Lawrence looked at me, opened his mouth as if hesitating, and did this a few times.

I knew he was waiting for me to ask further.

Since it was all an act, I asked, "What do you want to say? We're married, just tell me."

"I didn't expect you to renew so quickly, but since you've signed, I shouldn't say anything. However, this time, I think the opportunity is rare. Fine, since you asked, I'll tell you."

He looked troubled, as if he would only speak if I pressed him, "Do you know the area next to Greenwood?"

"Yes, of course. It's a prime location with several residential areas and two shopping malls."

And recently, Lawrence had sent Missy to Clara's neighborhood, which is nearby.

"I want to bid for that land and collaborate with someone to build something like an amusement park, unique to Starlight City," Lawrence explained.

I showed a surprised expression, "Such a big project, can the Turner Group handle it? We probably don't even have the bidding qualifications, right?"

Lawrence nodded, "We didn't initially, but I recently met someone influential, Jared Cox from Quantum Leap Enterprises. You should know Quantum Leap Enterprises; they originally made their fortune in home appliances but have since expanded into various industries. He got us the qualification, and we will jointly develop the amusement park project. So, if this project goes smoothly, it's a guaranteed profit.

The Turner Group could even break into the upper echelons."

This was essentially a leap in social class.

Lawrence's ambition was indeed significant.

I pretended not to understand and continued to ask, "Is there a problem on our side or Jared's side?"

Lawrence hesitated and then said, "It's not really our problem. Jared's side has been spreading their resources a bit thin lately, so they're short on funds for this project. They've been unable to find suitable investors, and time is running out, so they're quite anxious.

You know, this opportunity is rare and crucial for the Turner Group. I really want to make the Turner Group better and not let down my parents in heaven.

Most importantly, Melinda, I want to give you a better life and let others know that being with me was the right choice."

"Jared is short on funds, so why did he come to you? Are you sure you're not being scammed?" I asked him with a worried look.

Lawrence paused at my words, a cold glint in his eyes, but he smiled at me, "Don't worry about that. Jared came to me because I once helped his wife with a small favor. Otherwise, this opportunity wouldn't have come to me. But since it's a business matter, there are conditions.

Because he's short by about seventy million dollars, we need to advance some funds, about twenty-five million dollars, and he'll consider the remaining forty million."

I was amused by his audacity.

Lawrence was really calculating.

He was essentially planning to drain my financial resources, even taking the money I earned from investments, and possibly expecting me to find more money to make up the difference.

Lawrence really thought I was a fool, not leaving me with anything.

I clenched my fist, resisting the urge to punch him, and frowned at him, "What do you mean? Are you asking me for money?"

Lawrence sighed, "Honestly, the opportunity is rare, and I don't mind you laughing at me. I did have that thought.

I really want to prove that you didn't make a mistake marrying me, and I want to show that I'm not inferior to anyone, so my parents in heaven can see. But asking you for money makes me feel ashamed, and this money is your inheritance from your parents, something you cherish. How could I bear to ask?"

Keep acting!

I looked at Lawrence without saying anything.

Lawrence continued, "I just wanted to share this with you so you wouldn't wonder why I've been so busy lately. I think we might have communicated less in the past, but I won't do that anymore. I'll tell you everything from now on.

We're married, and I used to think you didn't need to know and should just live happily. But after our recent issues, I've reflected. A marriage needs sharing and communication to thrive, without so many doubts. I'm also doing this to reassure you.

You don't need to worry. I'll work harder, visit more banks and financing companies, and see if I can raise the money."

I looked at him with concern, "Do you have any confirmed responses? How much can you raise?"

"Six million dollars, still far from enough! But the opportunity is rare. It's really tough when you need money," Lawrence sighed with a hint of sadness.

I held his hand and frowned, "Lawrence, I don't want you to work too hard. If you really can't raise the money, just let it go. I'm quite content with our current life."

"That's not acceptable! I promised your parents to give you a better life, and I swore to it. Do you really want me to break my promise and face punishment?"

When he mentioned punishment, his words were somewhat vague, probably expecting me to cover his mouth and stop him.

But that was the old me. Now, I truly hope God punishes him.

I knew he was desperate, using a retreat to advance, looking at me with deep affection, waiting for my answer.