Your Gold Digger is Actually A True Heiress by Vera Fiore

Chapter 216 After that day, Thalia didn't see Asher for almost two weeks. When Lucia cto the firm to discuss a case, Thalia learned that Asher had flown overseas to handle issues with an international branch of his company. During those two weeks, Thalia buried herself in work, barely coming up for air. Several of Blackwood Group's cases had been filed in court, with hearings scheduled for a month later. Marcus and Sophia's divorce case was coming up sooner - next Thursday.

That evening after work, Thalia joined Alana, Lucy Jenkins, and Katie for dinner at a fried chicken place near the office. With their food spread across the table, the women chatted while enjoying their meal. Lucy had been renting an apartment near downtown, but her lease was about to expire, and she was hunting for a new place. Katie happened to be looking for a larger apartment and suggested, "Why don't you move in with me? I've been thinking about upgrading anyway.

We could get a two-bedroom together and split the costs." Lucy hesitated, fidgeting with her napkin. "What's wrong?" Katie asked, eyeing her suspiciously. "Don't want to live withor something?" Lucy took a sip of her soda, looking suddenly uncomfortable. "It's not that, Katie. It's just... I, um ... "" You what?" Katie laughed. "Did the hot sauce short-circuit your brain? " A telltale blush crept across Lucy's cheeks.

"I'm actually planning to move in with my boyfriend. " Katie's jaw dropped, and the chicken wing she was holding fell back onto her plate. "You're WHAT? Moving in with your boyfriend?" Thalia also looked at Lucy with surprise. " You and Mark are official now?" Lucy nodded, her blush deepening." How long have you two been together?" Thalia asked. "Almost three months," Lucy admitted, dabbing at her mouth with a napkin. Katie frowned, leaning forward earnestly.

"Lucy, honey, three months is way too soon to be shacking up. You barely know the guy." "I have to side with Katie on this one," Thalia said seriously. "I know Mark seems like a good guy, but moving in together this quickly? I'm worried you're rushing things. " " Trust me, I'm speaking from experience here," Katie said, her expression darkening . " Ask Thalia how we met. I was in college in New York when I got played by this total jerk . Lived with him for two years.

We agreed to split everything 50/50 - rent, utilities, groceries, the works. He'd transfer$ 300 every month, and I'd put in another $ 300 for our shared expenses. "As she spoke, Katie's indignation visibly rose. She slammed her hand on the table, making their drinks jump . " Then after we broke up, this asshole had the nerve to askto pay him back! Said those monthly transfers were ' gifts with the intention of marriage. 'But that was clearly our agreed-upon arrangement ! In two years, all the gifts he ever gavedidn't even add up to $75. Meanwhile, I bought him a pair of sneakers that cost $ 150, not to mention all those stupid gadd-ons I kept buying him. Just... think about this carefully, okay?" Lucy looked embarrassed. "I appreciate your concern, Katie, I really do. But Mark isn't like that.

He's already said he'll cover rent and utilities, and for food and stuff, he'll pay 70 % and I'll pay 30 %. I've even introduced him to my parents. We're serious about each other. " " You've introduced him to your parents ? " Thalia asked, genuinely surprised. "When did this happen? " " During the May Day weekend," Lucy explained "They really liked him. We're just a regular family, and Mark has a stable job now.

He's hardworking, ambitious, and doesn't shy away from challenges. My parents approve of our relationship. Katie raised an eyebrow . " But do they approve of you two living together?" Lucy hesitated before shaking her head. "I haven't exactly told them that part. " Katie gave her an " I knew it " look. Thalia asked, "What about Teresa ? She's still in elementary school, right? Is she going ve with you both?" "Yes, Teresa will be with us, Lucy nodded.

"We're planning to rent a two-bedroom apartment for now, then save up for a down payment on a house." " Make sure you test for formaldehyde levels before you sign any lease, Thalia warned. "You don't want to end up in another toxic apartment . " She glanced at Katie . " You too, if you're apartment hunting. Remember, Teresa developed leukemia because of formaldehyde exposure in their previous place. Mark was lucky not to be affected." Katie nodded solemnly.

"I'll definitely keep that in mind. " Still, she looked unconvinced about Lucy's plans. " I still think moving in together after just three months is a mistake. " Chapter 216 " Katie, it's really okay," Lucy insisted. "Thalia's met Mark - she even helped him when Teresa was sick. Ask her if he isn't one of the most reliable guys you could meet," Katie looked at Thalia expectantly. "You know her boyfriend?" Thalia nodded. "I do.

I helped find a bone marrow match for his sister when she had leukemia. He is genuinely a good person - hardworking, determined, and sincerely kind-hearted. "" Fine," Katie sighed tically. "I'm just trying to look out for you. Whether you take my advice or not is up to you. Obviously, I hope things work out. I want you to be happy." "I know you care, Katie. Letbuy you another drink. " Lucy raised her glass. " Cheers to that ! " Katie clinked glasses with her.

Thalia smiled. "Just promise you'll invite us to the wedding when the tcomes." Lucy grinned. "You'll be first on the guest list. " Katie added, " And bring Mark around sometso I can give him the third degree . " " Deal," Lucy laughed. Their dinner stretched on for over an hour. By the end, both Lucy and Katie were stuffed and slightly tipsy from the beers they'd shared. Katie swayed a little as she asked, "Why isn't your boyfriend picking you up tonight?

""He's working late, "Lucy replied with a proud smile. "Saving up for our future." " At least he has his priorities straight, " Katie nodded fumbling for her phone to call an Uber Thalia gently took the phone from her hand. "No way you're taking an Uber alone in thi both h. " te. Letdrive you Lucy currently lived near downtown, about ten miles away, while Katie's place was closer to Winters & Associates, just a couple of miles from where they were.

Thalia helped Katie into her car and called to Lucy," Con, Lucy. I'll drop you off too." " Thanks, Thalia . " Lucy slid into the passenger seat with a grin. "Riding in style again - your - car is seriously amazing." Alana drove, with Lucy in the front passenger seat and Thalia supporting a giggly Katie in the back.

After safely delivering both women to their respective homes, Thalia directed Alana to drive to her private villa.

Chapter Thalia owned a two-story detached villa in an upscale neighborhood near Winters & Associates. The location was perfect for an - close to the office for an easy commute. Alana lived with her as both assistant and bodyguard, providing round-the-clock protection. As the white Rolls - Royce stopped at a red light, Thalia gazed absently out the window. Suddenly, she spotted a familiar figure on the sidewalk. Thalia quickly lowered her window, straining to get a better look at the entrance of a bar across the street." Alana, find somewhere to park - now ! " Thalia's voice was urgent, her eyes never leaving the figure she'd spotted. (5) C