Mark's expression shifted. His voice carried a hint of weariness as he addressed Yvonne, "After all that's happened, do you still want to play games with me?"

She shrugged indifferently and replied, "I'm merely stating the truth. If you don't believe me, there's nothing more I can do."

Mark stepped forward with an intense look in his eyes. "You're a clever person, Yvonne. I don't need to remind you whether Chuck or Gwen is of greater value, do I?"

"I don't evaluate people based on their worth. To me, Gwen matters more," Yvonne retorted bluntly.

She shed her facade, and her voice turned icy. "Chuck, that wretch, is nowhere near worthy of being compared to Gwen."

The very next moment, Mark's fingers closed around Yvonne's throat. He forcefully pressed her against a pillar.

His strength was formidable. It caused the entire pergola to tremble.

"I lack your sentimentality. Your arguments won't sway me. To me, they're just childish and foolish," Mark said. His patience was wearing th