My Substitute CEO Bride201-300

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Chapter_261
According to Hera’s previous account, Nash hadn’t even been a security manager before—he had only assumed the role after marrying her. Yet, the more James and Yvonne discussed his position, the more it became apparent that they had no idea what Nash was truly capable of.
“Uncle James, being a security manager is impressive. It’s just like your position!” Yvonne quickly intervened, sensing the growing tension and hoping to defend her cousin-in-law.
James sneered, casting a cold, arrogant glance at Nash. “How could he compare to me? Our company is a legitimate security firm. Any random team leader there makes a monthly salary of 20,000 Marriot Dollars—and I mean in Marriot Dollars!”
The mention of Marriot Dollars hit home, as James knew that such a sum, when converted to Drakonian Dollars, would amount to nearly 200,000. As a manager, James earned close to a million a month. To him, a security manager at a smaller firm like Baroque was nothing but a drop in the ocean.
Yvonne, eager to lighten the mood, whispered to Hera, “Uncle James is amazing. He’s protected people from the royal family before. His starting commission is 500,000 Marriot Dollars!”
Hera’s eyes widened in surprise. “That much?”
“Half a million Marriot Dollars… that’s not even enough for the reservation fee for many country leaders who have sought my services!” Nash murmured to himself. In his past line of work, he had been sought by over 30 royal families, each willing to pay a hefty sum just for the privilege of his protection. The appointment fees alone ranged from 100,000 to 800,000 Marriot Dollars.
“You’re just too young, with limited social experience. You were easily deceived by a few sweet words!” James lamented coldly, his disdain for Nash more evident than ever.
Hera, trying to ease the tension, quickly stepped in. “Uncle James, please don’t misunderstand. I’m the one who insisted on marrying Nash!”
James blinked, clearly caught off guard. Why would she insist on marrying him? With her looks, she could have easily married into one of the top elite families in Capiton. His mind raced with questions, unable to understand her choice.
Yvonne, ever the quick thinker, shifted the conversation to prevent further conflict. “Wow! Hera, tell me why you insisted on marrying him. Was it for love?”
Before Hera could respond, the sound of footsteps interrupted them, and Harrison and Lauren entered the room.
“Yvonne…?” Lauren exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with excitement at the sight of her niece.
Yvonne, having never met Lauren, hesitated for a moment before asking, “Are you Aunt Lauren?”
Hera nodded gently, smiling warmly at Yvonne. “Yes, she’s your Aunt Lauren!”
Yvonne, eager to make the connection, rushed forward and embraced Lauren. “Aunt Lauren… I’ve finally met you…”
The reunion was heartfelt, and Lauren couldn’t hold back her tears. After being estranged for over 20 years, even Liam—who worked in Jonford—had been reluctant to come and see her. She never expected that she would be reunited with a member of the Mare family, let alone Lincoln’s daughter.
“James!” Harrison’s voice cut through the emotion in the room as he pulled a pack of unopened cigarettes from his pocket.
James, who had attended Harrison’s wedding to Lauren years ago, had left behind a trail of unpleasant memories. However, with time, all grudges were forgiven. Harrison, remembering James’ fondness for smoking, had gone out of his way to purchase an expensive pack of cigarettes—a gesture he would normally not consider.
“I quit smoking…” James declined, his face returning to its familiar coldness.
Harrison chuckled softly, trying to lighten the mood. “You must’ve had a tough time, James. I’ll have a bit more to drink with you later!”
James shot him a sharp look, his voice dripping with irritation. “Stop trying to cozy up to me!”
The air in the room thickened once again, the old tensions between James and the rest of the family resurfacing. Yet, amidst the undercurrents of animosity, there was a sense of familiarity. Years had passed, but some dynamics remained unchanged. The questions about Nash’s worth lingered, and James’ opinion of him seemed unlikely to soften any time soon.
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