Chapter 400: The Hickey

With a wave of his hand, Casimir declared, "Of course you can. My woman can't be a minor character; she has to be the leading lady! It's decided then. You're going to be the lead actress in the first film my production company invests in."

"You're the best, Cas. I love you," Waverly planted a passionate kiss on his face.

At present, the Goodridge family was heading down the path of decline. When it came to Casimir, Waverly decided to treat him as a stepping stone since she couldn’t possess him in the short term. Nevertheless, she had now set her sights on the influential Sutherland family and was determined to become part of it.

That night, the two of them shared many passionate moments, too many to recall. Even though Casimir only lasted a few minutes each time, Waverly still seemed satisfied.

The following afternoon, an energized Casimir went to meet with Leonardo at the appointed time. Upon arriving at the agreed venue, he was surprised to see Raylee there.

Appearing indifferent toward Raylee, he addressed Leonardo, saying, "Mr. Foucault, it's not quite appropriate to discuss business with a lady present, is it?"

Jeremiah wrapped his arms around Raylee, letting out a soft grunt. "This business deal was suggested by Ray-Ray; it's only natural that I bring her along. What if you tried to swindle me? Even though I’ve nothing but money, it doesn’t mean I can be taken advantage of like a sitting duck."

Casimir frantically explained, "Mr. Foucault, I'm a legitimate businessman. There's no way I would possibly swindle you. Anyway, it's no big deal. I'll show you utmost sincerity. I'm confident that if we collaborate, we can surely create something extraordinary."

"Don't just stand at the door talking, go in already," urged Raylee. "Mr. Foucault heard that you've hired a top chef to prepare a variety of garlic dishes for him. He can't wait to try them."

"Please, this way," Casimir excitedly said.

Inside the private room, they were greeted by a plethora of dishes cooked with garlic. In Casimir's view, it was simply horrifying. He despised garlic the most. Even the slightest contact with garlic would trigger his allergies. In mild cases, a localized rash would appear, causing both pain and itchiness. In severe cases, blisters would cover his entire body and face, necessitating a hospital visit for treatment. His aversion to garlic had reached a point where he would be terrified by the mere mention of it.

Immediately, Kaylee served Jeremiah some garlic ravioli, which Jeremiah thoroughly enjoyed. Suppressing his distaste for the food, Casimir said, "Mr. Foucault, might I ask what you have in mind for our collaboration? Sutherland Group is involved in a myriad of projects. Our primary industries include real estate, manufacturing, and the food and beverage sector. If there’s a particular project you’re interested in, feel free to let me know. We can delve deeper into it and provide you with a detailed proposal as soon as possible. Be it existing projects of Sutherland Group, or new ventures you're interested in, I will do everything within my power to make it happen."

As Jeremiah ate, he said enthusiastically, "Mr. Sutherland, you're truly impressive for someone so young. Not only are you handsome, but your business is also thriving. No wonder my dear Ray-Ray was so fond of you in the past."

Suddenly, Casimir found himself in an awkward situation.

"Mr. Foucault, we're here to discuss business. Please, let's not throw personal matters into the mix. We men prioritize our careers, after all. Our hands are meant to conquer the world. Given the choice between wealth and beauty, I firmly choose the former."

"Really? Then how did you get that hickey on your neck, Mr. Sutherland?" Jeremiah let out a chuckle. Judging by its deep color, it must have been from last night! It seems that you’ve had quite the wild time the night before discussing business with me. So, what you say and what you do don’t appear to be consistent. You know, there’s a saying about people saying one thing and feeling another. If I were to collaborate with someone like you, who isn’t sincere, wouldn’t I end up being taken advantage of?"

Casimir was feeling upset, as he was only interested in discussing business. Unfortunately for him, Leonardo seemed insistent on dwelling on personal matters. "Could it be that he is a hopeless romantic? Raylee has truly struck gold with someone like that. As long as she coaxes him, she can get anything she wants!"

Stroking the hickey on his neck, Casimir went along with Jeremiah’s topic, saying, "That’s because I spent last night with my fiancée, Waverly. Mr. Foucault, as a man yourself, you should know how hard it is to show restraint when one’s feelings for the other are especially intense, right? Given that we’re soon to be engaged, our relationship is going strong, which is ample proof that Ms. Somers and I are a thing of the past."

“I see.” Jeremiah chuckled, choosing to remain silent.

Raylee, however, wore an expression of displeasure, her tone laced with sarcasm as she spoke. "So, Mr. Sutherland, you can’t wait to cut ties with me? Alright then, I, your ex-girlfriend, am now a thing of the past. I wish you and your fiancée a lifetime of happiness together."

"Ms. Goodridge, why can’t you let go of the past?" Casimir advised magnanimously. "If we can’t be husband and wife, we can still be friends. I believe Mr. Foucault also hopes that you would be loyal to him, rather than constantly being hung up on your..."