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Chapter 360
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Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 361
"Sorry! I didn't mean to," Angela said as she quickly helped Dexter up. Luckily, there weren't many people around, or his reputation could have been damaged."All of your energy has been spent confronting me." Dexter glared at her, feeling annoyed. However, he remembered the reason for his visit todayâit was a farewell moment."I know I can be quite stubborn at times, but it's all in your best interest. I want what's best for you. If you appreciate it, great. If not, it doesn't matter. That's your choice."This was likely the first time in Dexter's life that he humbled himself before someone. He spoke awkwardly, avoiding eye contact and constantly looking away. "Oh..." Angela immediately grasped what he meant. Seeing his cold, arrogant expression made her hesitant. She decided to let it go and not be upset with him anymore. After a brief pause, she replied, "I'm leaving. Thank you for the gift." Dexter gave her a look that asked, "Is that all?" "I'll bring you some lo
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 1
It was actually very obvious whether a man loved a woman or not. Angela Graham knew it very well. For example, Dexter Bamford could spend a fortune buying out all the billboards in the central business district to celebrate the birthday of his first love, Elena Carrey. He did so that the whole city would be able to tell his sincerity toward her.But for Angela's birthday, all she got was just a small, six-inch cake. In fact, it was the very same cake the nanny had gotten on her birthday.Angela chuckled when she saw the cake. It made sense, after all. Although she was Dexter's legally wedded wife, the actual Mrs. Bamford, her job scope wasn't much different from the nanny's anyway.The only extra task she had was sleeping with Dexter.Angela felt tears well in her eyes when she thought about this. The loneliness in her eyes stood out like a sore thumb amid the noisy surroundings of the party.Dexter had been late to the party as always. Actually, he had planned on staying at the
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 2
Dexter glanced up at Angela before speaking gently into the phone. "What's the matter? Don't cry."Angela watched as Dexter changed into his outdoor clothes and left for the second time, for some other woman and that too, on her birthday.Her eyes stung with tears. She didn't feel sleepy anymore after Dexter left. Thinking she would get a book or two to read, Angela headed into the study and happened to see a contract.The contract was placed right in the center of the table, as if anyone was welcome to take a look at it.It was a contract between Dexter and Elena, his first love. Angela couldn't believe that they were still in contact with each other.The contract was very thick. It had started when Angela had first gotten married to Dexter, spanning five years.Angela's hand shook. The more she read, the more shocking it was for her. The latest date was actually last night.As it turned out, everything that Dexter had done for her, whether a celebration or an anniversary date,
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 3
Dexter could hardly believe what he had just heard. Throughout his marriage with Angela, he had only ever seen a submissive and hopeful look in her eyes. He knew she feared losing him.The term "divorce" was probably the thing she had feared hearing the most in the past three years. But now, she had uttered it so casually. When Dexter had seen Angela's retreating back at the office this morning, he had already felt annoyed. That emotion resurfaced again. He casually picked up a cigarette from the pack on the table and lit it.Amid the swirling smoke, Dexter questioned in a cold voice, "What? Are you upset because I didn't accompany you yesterday? Or is it because I refused to let you participate in that ridiculous competition?"Angela, are you out of your mind? You cried and begged to be Mrs. Bamford. You live in a villa and have luxury cars to drive you around. I even propped up your failing family. What more could you possibly be dissatisfied with?"The disdain and contem
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 4
Dexter cleared his throat with a light cough before pressing the answer button. "Yes, Grandpa?"The robust voice of an old man came from the other end. "Dexter, I may be sick, but I'm not dead. Did you even know it was Angie's birthday yesterday?"Upon hearing this, Dexter glanced at Angela before speaking politely into the phone. "Of course I knew it was her birthday yesterday. I even organized a grand celebration for her.""Hmph! Don't try to fool me!" Joseph Bamford scolded.The next moment, there was the sound of Joseph angrily handing the phone over to his butler, Gary Butler. Gary took over the call and spoke respectfully to Dexter. "Mr. Bamford Jr., Mr. Bamford Sr. has been feeling some discomfort in his chest over the past couple of days. If you have the time, bring your wife along to visit him at Bamford Manor. Mr. Bamford Sr. might not say it, but he probably misses the pasta she makes."Dexter remained silent for a moment before agreeing. "I'll bring her over shortly,
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 5
Angela had just gotten out of the car and steadied herself when the black Cullinan drove off without any hesitation, leaving her in a cloud of dust.She stood there in a daze for a moment before letting out a self-deprecating laugh and thought, "That's right. He's always been like this."But before she had time to dwell on her misery, her phone rang urgently. Angela took out her phone and saw that it was an unknown number."Hello, is this Ms. Graham? I'm the property manager for Villa Heights. I'm calling to confirm if your property has been sold.""Why do you ask?" Angela's heart skipped a beat.Over the years, she had managed the property, so the contact information listed was hers.However, when Marie had passed away, she had been too young. So, Bill had put all of Marie's assets under his name.When Angela had been young, he had used to say to her, "When you grow up and find your Prince Charming, I'll turn this house into a castle for you both to live in happily ever after!"
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 6
Angela frowned and denied it without a second thought.However, the manager didn't believe her. "Regardless, we just found out that you have no work experience. I'm sorry, but we can't hire a complete newbie like you." Even though Angela repeatedly assured him of her expertise in design, the manager was adamant about not going through with hiring her.As Angela stared at the manager, who looked deeply troubled, she instantly understood everything.It was Dexter! He was forcing her to give in!Amidst the strange gazes everyone was casting her way, Angela took her belongings and left.At that moment, she felt an urge to call Dexter and ask him why he was doing this. Still, she resisted that impulse and refrained from acting on it. She kept convincing herself not to let this get to her. It was just a jobâshe could find another.Angela dragged her exhausted body back to her rented apartment, only to find her belongings thrown out and lying miserably in the hallway. Nothing had be
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 7
"It's none of your business." Angela tried to pull away, but Dexter scooped her up by holding her around the waist."Are you really risking your life out of sheer stubbornness? You're nuts, Angela!" Dexter scolded, his expression glum as he carried her out the door and shoved her into the car."I'm not going with you! Even if I die, it has nothing to do with you!" Angela protested.Erica turned around from the front seat and spoke in a somewhat chastising tone. "Mrs. Bamford, I was the one who caused your job and housing issues. It had nothing to do with Mr. Bamford."She thought Angela was out of her mind to speak to Dexter like that. Who did she think she was to scream at him? Angela clearly didn't know her place.Angela ignored Erica. Without Dexter's approval, who would have dared to humiliate and push her around so mercilessly?The only reason he had done that was to make her submit and continue being his spineless trophy wife.But she was determined not to give him that sa
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Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 361
"Sorry! I didn't mean to," Angela said as she quickly helped Dexter up. Luckily, there weren't many people around, or his reputation could have been damaged."All of your energy has been spent confronting me." Dexter glared at her, feeling annoyed. However, he remembered the reason for his visit todayâit was a farewell moment."I know I can be quite stubborn at times, but it's all in your best interest. I want what's best for you. If you appreciate it, great. If not, it doesn't matter. That's your choice."This was likely the first time in Dexter's life that he humbled himself before someone. He spoke awkwardly, avoiding eye contact and constantly looking away. "Oh..." Angela immediately grasped what he meant. Seeing his cold, arrogant expression made her hesitant. She decided to let it go and not be upset with him anymore. After a brief pause, she replied, "I'm leaving. Thank you for the gift." Dexter gave her a look that asked, "Is that all?" "I'll bring you some lo
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 360
As Dexter posed his pointed questions, Fiona's guilt intensified. She cleared her throat several times and paced the room. "Why are you so restless? The truth is, Angela doesn't even like you."Dexter was frustrated. On one hand, Angela looked down on him, while on the other, Fiona was siding with her and wanted to find both of them new partners. There was no way he'd let that happen!âĶThe next morning, Angela and Zack went to the airport to meet Joel."Angela, did you argue with Dexter? Why didn't he come to see you off for your flight today?" After getting out of the car, Zack noticed there were no other familiar cars nearby.Angela's expression stiffened as she checked her watch, noting there was still over an hour until they boarded. She gave a faint smile and replied, "It's fine. He's always been emotionally unstable." A male voice nearby asked, "Who's emotionally unstable?" Angela instinctively turned around and saw Dexter leaving the waiting room. She wondere
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 359
"I can't believe you're still in the mood to drink here. Angela is heading to Otril tomorrow. Aren't you planning to go see her off?" Fiona expressed her disappointment as she attempted to pull Dexter up from the couch, only to realize she wasn't strong enough.She had no idea what was going through Dexter's head. For several days, he had been going out for drinks after work, as if alcohol was the only remedy for his pain. She had never seen him in such a state of decline. She couldn't believe this was the same Dexter who had once excelled in the business industry. He seemed like a hopeless romantic now.Dexter sneered impatiently. "What does it have to do with me? She's so cold-hearted. Do I have a say in her actions? She doesn't listen to me at all. I mean nothing to her!"Several people in the private room were a little surprised, including Zayn. They questioned the situation, recalling how Dexter had always remained indifferent to Angela. It appeared that their roles had sudd
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 358
Dexter's voice reflected heartache, disappointment, and helplessness.Angela felt intense pain in her heart. She looked up and briefly saw his red eyes before he turned and ran out the door. The door was wide open, and his scent faded away with the wind.She stayed like that for a while and took time to decide her next move. In the end, she decided not to dwell on it anymore. It was clear that she wasn't mistaken. Yet, her words were just a bit too harsh.He simply didn't understand her, nor did he need to. She felt complicated.âĶAngela spent almost a week in the hospital, and during that time, Joel visited once. When they finally sat down together, they engaged in an open conversation about the company's future plans. Their discussion flowed easily, and they completely avoided any mention of Bill. Angela and Joel enjoyed each other's company and realized that they had connected far later than they should have.Joel not only lifted the restrictions on Graham Group within the O
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 357
Those familiar with Dexter would recognize his tone immediately. It was clear that he was still in a bad mood. He didn't even want to open the door himself and insisted that others do it for him. To prevent Angela from being sad, Kerry quickly opened the door.Everyone noticed Dexter standing there, burdened with a heavy load and wearing a grim expression. "Mr. Bamford, you..." Kerry was taken aback.Dexter couldn't open the door because his hands were full of shopping bags. "I went to bring things for her," Dexter replied reluctantly, pushing past Kerry. Clara cast a questioning glance at Angela, her eyes silently inquiring about the situation at hand. Angela chose to ignore it. After being unjustly scolded, she was still angry, and she had no desire to engage with Dexter.After Dexter entered, he put everything on the coffee table and sat on the couch, appearing cold and unapproachable. No one said a word after that. "Perhaps we should leave first," Kerr
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 356
Dexter immediately rushed out, slamming the door. "What happened?" Fiona asked. Angela remained perplexed. "No idea. I only said my wound hurt. I didn't say anything else or offend him."She wondered if he had caught the alpha male syndrome. She hoped notâotherwise, Fiona would be in for a nightmare.After that, the doctor carefully examined her and assessed her wounds, explaining that her reactions were typical once the anesthetic wore off. He assured her that as long as she took her medication as prescribed and allowed herself adequate rest, there would be no cause for concern.Angela repeatedly thanked him. Despite the pain, she felt uplifted by her ability to control her fate and make a difference through hard work. She preferred to keep striving rather than seek others' approval through flattery.In the afternoon, Clara called to say that everyone wanted to visit her. They had bought gifts, and Clara hoped she wouldn't refuse them. Naturally, Angela would not decline. S
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 355
Dexter felt an overwhelming urge to rush in and carry Angela away. He considered that it would be better to pressure the Crawford family than to allow her to use this foolish approach.However, he still waited for her silently, knowing that she didn't want to be disturbed.Joel felt helpless. He wiped the blood from his nose and helped Angela up. "I promise you. Go and see a doctor now. Why are you so stubborn?"Angela's eyes sparkled with excitement, and her voice quivered with joy. "Thank you, thank you..."Before she finished speaking, she collapsed. Dexter quickly lifted her up. "Angela!"Fiona rushed over to assist, urging, "Quick! We need to get her to the hospital now!"âĶDexter and Fiona waited anxiously outside the emergency department until the doctor reassured them that Angela's injuries were minor and mostly superficial. Meanwhile, Angela slept with an IV drip, unaware of their concern."Why did she keep pushing herself? It's like she's got some sort of superpower o
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 354
Angela clenched her jaw, her every move radiating intense hostility with every move, embodying the wrath of a vengeful queen. Joel was briefly distracted before receiving a strong punch to the nose. The metallic scent of blood overwhelmed him as he collapsed to the ground.Angela was astonished by what she saw.Joel struggled to stand. His nose was bleeding, making it hard for him to breathe. He felt dizzy and lost his initial fighting spirit. On the other hand, Angela was incredibly strong, seemingly pushing beyond her limits in a frenzied state.Then, the two fought again, resulting in an unexpected draw. Angela realized she couldn't compete with Joel for long, so she put all her strength into each attack. She noticed that Joel's strength was diminishing as he bled.A few minutes later, the standoff ended when Angela knocked Joel down with a punch. As he rose, blood streamed from his nose, distorting his vision and leaving him unable to continue the fight. The team arriv
Love and Devotion: No Longer His to Claim   Chapter 353
Angela had already humbled herself significantly. Despite Joel's consistent indifference, he found it increasingly difficult to dismiss her completely. After all, those who came here were far from ordinary. In the end, he agreed. He would just treat it as a game to see if she was anything like Bill. Angela and Joel soon found themselves on the ring. Angela felt honored and bowed to Joel. Despite secretly looking down on her, Joel maintained a gentlemanly demeanor and smiled.After that, it was time for a heated exchange. Joel sarcastically said, "I'll draw the line somewhere and do my best not to hurt you."Angela smiled with determination, replying, "I'll give it my all until I defeat you." Joel frowned, wondering what this arrogant woman was planning. The battle began quickly. Joel was obviously different from the other contestants Angela went up against. He toyed with her, effortlessly neutralizing her attacks and waiting for her next move, like a cat playing with a mo
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