Magic 134

Valerie had always been clear–headed and financially independent. Money was the one thing she refused to get tangled up in when it came to men. 

From the day she met Lucius, she’d hardly spent a single penny of his money, just to avoid messy financial ties if they ever were to part ways. 

Lucius hadn’t expected her strong reaction. “Valerie, are you misunderstanding something?” 

She shot back, “In that case, explain what you mean by ‘what’s yours is yours, and what’s mine is also yours. 

Lucius calmly replied, “There’s nothing to explain. I meant exactly what I said.” 

Valerie gave a short, mocking laugh. “If it’s that literal, wire me a million dollars right now. 

Without a flicker of hesitation, he transferred a million dollars straight to her account. 

Staring at the bank notification on her phone, Valerie was in utter disbelief. “You actually did 

it?” 

“Isn’t it only natural for a husband to provide for his wife?” 

“How do you even know my bank account details?” 

Lucius smiled faintly. “Nothing’s untraceable if a man wants to know something, especially when we’re husband and wife.” 

He kept saying husband and wife, and the repetition made her uneasy. 

“Give me your account number. I’ll send it back,” she demanded. 

Instead, he pulled her down to sit on his lap. “I never take back money that’s been given away. 

Valerie tried to free herself, but his arms held her firmly in place. 

Then, he began, “I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately. Our families might’ve had their reasons and wisdom for wanting us to marry. 

“Emotionally, I’m not the best at expressing myself. I never really knew that kind of person would be right for me. But after being with you, every day has felt new. It’s an experience I never had in all my years before you. 

“It wasn’t until the eruption on the cruise ship happened that I realized… Maybe we’re meant 

Chapter 134 

to walk this path together.” 

Valerie hadn’t expected such a heartfelt outpouring. “Are you… confessing your feelings to me? 

“If that’s what you think it is, then yes,” Lucius replied. 

Valerie sighed in disbelief. “As I recall, you once swore you’d never fall for me.” 

“Everyone makes silly mistakes.” 

Back then, he had no idea he’d come to care so much for her either. But one of his strengths was that he committed fully once he set his mind on something. 

Valerie snapped, “So when you hated me, I was supposed to keep my distance. Now that you like me, am I supposed to just fall right into your arms?” 

He paused thoughtfully. “I suppose that did sound a little scummy.” 

Then, he leaned close and whispered in her ear, “You could suggest how I can make it up to you. I’ll do whatever you ask. 

She laughed. “You don’t owe me anything, so there’s nothing to make up for. After all, we’re partners, and you just want to stabilize the partnership by changing its terms. 

“We’re adults, Lucius. It’s more practical to talk about mutual benefit than love. 

“I’ll agree to nurture our relationship during the marriage and do my best to make it 

enjoyable for both of us. In return, you must promise me that though anything goes behind closed doors, our marriage stays publicly disclosed.” 

Lucius frowned. “You don’t want to make it public?” 

He’d thought she cared about the status of being his wife. 

Valerie raised her voice slightly as she replied, “Of course not. It’s cleaner that way if I ever 

want a divorce.” 

He couldn’t help but laugh. “Why is your first thought always divorce? Can’t we just stay together for life?” 

She grabbed his collar and hissed, “Just promise me that you’ll say nothing about us to anyone. 

The little spark of fierceness in her eyes made something deep in Lucius‘ chest stir.