Chapter 12 The Art of Playing Hard to Get

"Miss Duvall, your razor-sharp wit is as remarkable as your design genius," Rowan Blackwood remarked coolly, releasing her hand. For a moment, he felt disoriented—there was something unmistakably familiar about Marielle Duvall, an essence that sparked an irresistible urge to uncover her mystery. Marielle laughed coldly. "Mr. Blackwood, perhaps you should attend to your family affairs first." She turned and left Horizon Corp. This time, Rowan didn't stop her. After Marielle's departure, Selina Vaughn approached, voice quivering. "Rowan, I didn't know she was a company designer. But she provoked me first! I—" "Why are you here?" Rowan's icy expression deepened her unease. "You skipped breakfast. I worried about your stomach, so I brought food. Rowan, I didn't mean trouble. Please don't be angry." She clutched his sleeve desperately. His piercing stare made her shrink. "Rowan..." "You struck first?" The image of Selina's earlier frenzy still disturbed him. Under his relentless gaze, she admitted, "Yes... but—" "She's Marla, Argentum Group's top automotive designer—the one I've pursued at any cost. You've driven her away. We'll lose millions, plus our reputation. Secure her forgiveness. I want her here tomorrow to discuss collaboration. Otherwise, leave the Blackwood household." Rowan turned and left. Selina stood frozen, pale-faced. "No! You can't! I'm Reese's mother. What about him? Rowan, I'm sorry!" She grabbed his arm desperately. Five years since giving birth to the Blackwood heir had secured her position. Yet Rowan remained detached. He pampered Reese but treated her like a stranger. People assumed he treated her well. Materially, yes. But she wanted to be his wife, not just Reese's mother living on pretense. Rowan ignored her completely. She never entered his bedroom or heart. Now he threatened expulsion—devastating news. "I'll beg her! I'll grovel! Don't separate us! I nearly died giving birth—remember?" "Without that, what claim would you have to the Blackwood name?" His voice was ice. Selina trembled, despair overwhelming her. "How can you be so cruel?" "Miss Zhang, bar Miss Vaughn without my permission. Fail, and resign." Rowan left without looking back. In the elevator with Victor, Rowan said, "Find her hotel. Send an expensive gift—my personal apology." "But you told Miss Vaughn to apologize. Why this too?" "Her apology is personal. Our gesture shows professional integrity. She's using this to assert position. She's fascinating—a master at withholding. I'll deliver the gift myself." Victor froze. "You're going personally? Isn't that excessive?" "She's waiting for my invitation. I'll assess her true intentions. Do it." Rowan returned to his office, leaving Victor stunned. Five years since Mr. Blackwood showed such interest in any woman. Could this designer truly have such power? Could she melt the eternal ice mountain?