Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover

"Chloe, thank you for coming into my life," Connor murmured, his voice so low it almost seemed like he was talking to himself. Chloe felt a bittersweet ache in her heart. She usually savored his sweet words, but now they sounded like a

goodbye.

"When we get out of here, how about you whip up your amazing sweet and sour ribs for me every day?" Chloe asked, her eyes twinkling. She could never get enough of Connor's ribs, with their perfect blend of tangy and sweet.

"Absolutely. As long as it makes you happy, I'll make anything for you," Connor replied. He paused, then added with a playful grin, "But since your husband is a busy CEO, maybe I should show you the recipe? The trick is a few plums; they really make the dish. Start by blanching a couple of pounds of ribs in cold water..."

Chloe cut him off with a teasingly stern look, "You know my cooking's a disaster. Even if you teach me, it'll be no use. I just want your version."

Connor laughed softly, "Alright, alright, I'll keep making them for you."noveldrama

Time seemed to blur, and when the door finally swung open, it wasn't Claire and Barrett who walked in. Instead, a group of mercenary bodyguards appeared. One of them, a tall, muscular guy with blond hair and piercing blue eyes, gave Connor a nudge, speaking in English, "Go rustle up some grub."

Connor blinked in confusion but stepped out into the dim evening. The light was fading, the sunset barely peeking through the dense forest canopy. Outside, a makeshift kitchen had been set up, ingredients scattered around. The blue-eyed guard, holding his AK, steered Connor towards the stove with a firm gesture.

Scanning the area, Connor noticed Barrett and Claire were nowhere in sight. Not surprising, given the ramshackle state of the place they likely had somewhere better to stay.

Connor got to work cooking, all the while discreetly taking in his surroundings. There were seven armed bodyguards patrolling the area. The compound consisted of four rundown buildings, made of concrete and wood, two of which had collapsed. Only the one he and Chloe were in was barely standing.

This confirmed his hunch: Claire and Barrett wouldn't be here overnight. A flicker of hope sparked in his mind.

Connor cooked up a storm, but when supplies ran low, he suggested a quick forage for more fruits and veggies nearby. Naturally, two burly guards shadowed him to prevent any escape attempts.

Using this chance, Connor surveyed the terrain. His exploration was limited, but he could piece together the lay of the land within a few kilometers, thanks to the geological features and tree lines.

He spotted a banyan grove nearby. With their sprawling roots and branches, banyans could create a natural labyrinth. Given the climate and soil, this grove was probably expansive-perfect for hiding

As Connor's plan began to take shape in his mind, he served up the meal on a stone table in the

courtyard Then, he was ushered et

back into the room. The bodyguards remained alert, taking turns to eat while never leaving his and Chloe's door unwatched.