?Chapter 1276:


    Jules winced at the sharp pinch, his face contorting in response. She was ruthless! But he quickly masked his difort and replied, “Yes, I know him.”


    Hearing that, Corrine released her grip and let out a sigh of relief.


    Jayden observed their interaction with growing suspicion, then turned his gaze to her smudged lipstick once more. A realization dawned on him. “Alright, go ahead. Don’t drink too much and don’t stay out toote.”


    “Got it.”


    Jayden stood still, watching her retreating figure, his eyes filled with a mixture ofplicated emotions.


    In stark contrast to the room Jayden and his colleagues upied, Nate’s room had a private balcony that led into a back garden, offering a peaceful atmosphere.


    As Corrine entered, she was greeted by the sound of Moses and others chatting.


    Amid their voices was one she didn’t recognize.


    She stepped inside and, just as she expected, saw an unfamiliar face. The man had a rugged, sharp-featured face with striking eyes — not as handsome as Nate, but stillmanding attention.


    His build mirrored Nate’s, though his attire — a white shirt with the cor slightly open — suggested a more carefree, untamed vibe.


    A cigarette dangled loosely from his fingers, his arm restingzily on the back of his chair, his posture like a lion resting in the sun.


    Spotting Corrine, Nate waved her over. “Perfect timing. Let me introduce you to a friend.”


    Corrine walked over, her hand naturally extending to meet his.


    “This is my friend, Rowan Larson. Rowan, meet my future wife, Corrine Hond,” Nate introduced with a grin.


    Your favorite tales live at g?lnσν????s．??????


    Rowan quickly stubbed out his cigarette in the ashtray, stood up, and extended his hand for a handshake. “Hello, Corrine.”


    Out of politeness, Corrine extended her hand in return. However, just as she raised it, Nate grasped her hand firmly, his voice warm. “No need for formalities among friends.”


    Rowan nced at Nate’s hand suspended in mid-air, a knowing, almost amused smile crossing his face.


    Tsk, this damn possessiveness. Not even a simple handshake allowed?


    Corrine, unfazed, let her eyes briefly linger over Rowan’s features.


    Larson family…


    Could he be from the Larson family of the Independent Continent?


    As she pondered, a sudden tightening of Nate’s hand at her waist snapped her back to the present.


    She turned her gaze to him, lowering her eyes to hide the small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.


    The party ended around ten in the evening.


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