Chapter 073

Annie's cheeks reddened further, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. She didn't dare show her anger, instead forcing a look of hurt as she reached out to grab Carl's hand.

Carl casually adjusted his sleeve, avoiding her touch.

"Carl, I'm your fiancée," Annie pleaded, her eyes glistening.

Carl glanced at her coldly. "Yes, fiancée. Not wife."

Annie's expression froze, and she stood there stunned.

He leaned in slightly. "You're still an outsider. Renee, however, is legally the Grey family's second daughter. At the very least, she's not to be bullied by outsiders. As for our arrangement, we both know the truth."

With that, Carl stuffed the number slip into Annie's hand and turned to leave.

Annie looked on in disbelief. Unwilling to give up, she stood to follow Carl but was blocked by Jackson's outstretched arm.

"Ms. Simmons, please sit down."

"Carl... Carl..."

Unable to push past Jackson, Annie could only grit her teeth and sit back down.

Looking at the slip, she realized it wa