Bait for a Gentleman novel Chapter 111

Audrina took the envelope, pulling out a medical report. It was from the best private hospital in Portsmith, bearing Waldo Sutton's name, dated last week.

She scanned the contents.

The diagnosis read: *Coronary artery disease with a high risk of heart failure. Recommendation: Avoid emotional distress and overexertion. Long-term medication and regular check-ups required.*

Audrina's fingers tightened around the paper.

Zachary spoke up. "You know my grandfather's health has always been poor. But what you don't know is that the doctors said his current condition can't take even the slightest shock."

"Audrina, I'm not using Waldo to pressure you. I just don't want his final days consumed by worrying about his grandchildren's drama."

"He adores you more than anyone. Do you really have the heart to let him know we've come to this?"

Audrina placed the report back on the desk and raised her eyes to meet his.

"So, what are your two conditions?"

"First, I'll agree to break off the engagement," Zachary said. "But for now, I need you to play along and put on a show for Waldo. The fact that we're splitting up stays between you, me, and our lawyers. As for Waldo, we can add a clause in the agreement stating I will personally break the news to him when the time is right."

"Second, you hand over every backup of the photos of Vera and me."

"If you agree, I'll sign the papers as soon as the draft is finalized. I'll even return the Monroe Industries shares to you."

"Since I'm agreeing to end the engagement, neither of these requests is unreasonable, right?"

Audrina stared him down. "Are you begging me, or threatening me?"

Zachary offered a bitter smile. "I'm begging you. Just don't let my grandfather pass away with regrets."

A heavy silence settled over the study.

Audrina remembered Waldo holding her hand on the cruise ship, his eyes rimmed with red.

She remembered him piling food onto her plate during the holidays, telling her, *"Eat up, Audrina."*

She remembered sitting by his hospital bed, how he held onto her hand even while he slept.

She closed her eyes. "...Fine. Add one more clause: we remain officially separated."

Zachary let out an audible sigh of relief. He dug the engagement ring out of his pocket. "Take this back. His birthday banquet is next month. Just wear it when you're in front of him."

Audrina looked at the ring, ultimately taking it and dropping it into her bag.

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