?Chapter 1315:


    Jules took a long sip of his drink before setting the ss down. “I’ve thought this through,” he said, sinking back into his chair.


    Rachel pressed her lips together, studying him carefully. “Jules, what’s on your schedule this afternoon?”


    “I have a meeting at the office,” he replied steadily. After a brief pause, he added, “Andter tonight, I have a few social events to attend.”


    His reply sounded stiff, more like a business update than a conversation between two people in love.


    Rachel’s eyes flickered slightly as she asked, “So, what time do you think you’ll be done?”


    Jules hesitated. “Not sure.” A slight crease formed between his brows, as if he just realized how distant he sounded. He added, “Work has been hectictely. There are things at thepany I have to handle myself.”


    Rachel gave a small nod. “I see.”


    She lifted her coffee cup, took a slow sip, and lowered her eyes to mask her thoughts.


    Did he truly see her as his future wife? She had been trying to start a conversation, but he responded as if ticking off items from a to-do list. To an outsider, they would seem less like a couple and more like an employer giving instructions to an employee.


    Once the meal ended, everyone went their separate ways. Corrine and Chelsea followed behind, walking at a slower pace.


    Chelsea gently squeezed Corrine’s hand, her voice filled with concern. “Corrine, Jules has always valued your opinion. Can’t you talk to him? I’m really afraid he’s heading down the wrong path.”


    Even if this was a strategic marriage, both parties should enter it willingly. If they didn’t see eye to eye, forcing them together would only bring frustration and heartache. Why put themselves through such misery?


    “I’ll have a word with him,” Corrine said, her gaze following Jules and Rachel as they walked ahead. “I just don’t know if he’ll actually listen.”


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    After all, Jules had agreed to the idea of a marriage alliance because of her. Now that he had introduced Rachel to his parents and taken this step forward, he must have already made up his mind.


    This wasn’t something a simple conversation could undo.


    After saying goodbye to Jayden and Chelsea, Corrine headed toward her car.


    “Miss Hond,” a voice called from behind.


    She turned to see Rachel approaching at a light jog. “Miss Astley, there’s no need to be so formal. Just call me Corrine,” she said with a calm smile.


    Rachel nodded. “Alright, then you call me Rachel.”


    “Sure.” Corrine studied her for a moment, then asked without any hint of pretense, “Did you need something?”


    “Not really.” Rachel hesitated slightly, choosing her words carefully. “I just wanted to see if you were free this afternoon. Maybe you could show me around?”


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