Ch. 241..250
Chapter 241
My past with Jace had left some serious scars. I needed to know-was I really that unappealing? Like, was I the kind of girl who could be held like this without him feeling anything? Someone he could resist without even breaking a sweat? "Hayden," I whispered, my hand sliding up his back, pulling him closer through his shirt. My nails dug in a
little..
His whole body went stiff, and he sucked in a breath. "Kiki..."
I pressed against him, knowing he could feel how soft I was under this nightgown, fresh from the shower.
If he could still walk away now, then yeah, I'd have to accept I was a complete failure.
"Kiki," he said, voice tight, before suddenly pulling away, His hands gripped my shoulders, head down, breathing like he'd just run five miles.
His Adam's apple bobbed, and I could see he was shaking.
He looked like he'd just crossed a finish line, exhausted.
Twasn't much better. I'd made this move, and now I felt both embarrassed and bold as hell.
"It's late," Hayden muttered, stepping back and turning like he was ready to bolt.
A cold rush of anger and humiliation hit me. "Hayden, it's this late and you're really leaving? Is it that you can't, or that you just don't want me?"
He froze, one foot already out the door. After a beat, he turned back around.
I couldn't see myself, but I knew I looked a mess-eyes red, face pale. That's what happens when you feel wrecked and humiliated.
Hayden locked eyes with me, his gaze intense and stormy. In one smooth move, he kicked the door shut behind him and then the room dimmed as he pulled me in, his lips crashing into mine.
I felt the heat surge through me as he kissed me hard, his hand tangling in my hair, tilting my head back. His grip on me was firm, like he couldn't get close enough...
I was wrapped up in a kind of fire I'd never known, experiencing the kind of passion I'd only ever dreamed
about.
"Kiki, is this okay?" Hayden's voice was rough, shaky, right in my ear.
His words snapped me back to reality. Was it okay?
I remembered before my parents passed away. I was already twelve then, and my body had started to change. My mom had given me the talk-about my body, about relationships, about boys. She said a girl shouldn't let a guy touch her unless she was ready to trust him with her whole life. And before making that call, she needed to be sure he deserved that trust.
Was I really ready to trust Hayden with my whole life?
Sure, I wanted him here tonight, but a lifetime? That felt so huge, so far off, full of question marks.
Chapter 241
Suddenly, I didn't know anymore.
My hesitation must've snapped him out of it. He gently brushed his cheek against my hair. "Let's wait a little longer."
My mind was racing. I didn't even know what to say.
"But you need to know something," he said, his voice low and rough. "It's not that I can't or that I'm not into you. I just want to wait until you're sure before we take the next step." His words made my eyes sting with all kinds of emotions.
I couldn't even explain it-there was this mix of being touched, excited, embarrassed, and a little hurt, too.
What was I even doing?
Was I really trying to use this to test Hayden's feelings for me?
Jace never acted like this because he didn't love me enough. But why did I think it was okay to put Hayden in the same position?
In that moment, I realized how stupid and clueless I'd been.
Hayden was responsible and honorable. If he were the type to take advantage, I'd be the one getting hurt.
Right now, I was thankful for his self-control and regretted my impulsiveness.
I pushed him away and bolted to my bedroom, like I was escaping.
Hayden's soft laugh followed me. "I'm heading out. Don't forget to drink the oatmeal."
I couldn't even respond.
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[Good night, my girlfriend!]
Hayden's text came in like half an hour later.
What took him so long? Was he, like in those cheesy romance novels, taking a cold shower to cool off or something?
Thinking about how we'd hit the brakes earlier made me blush like crazy, so I didn't even text back.
I barely slept that night. Maybe I should've taken a cold shower too because I was all kinds of restless, like there was this weird energy buzzing under my skin.
I guess once you crack open the door to, you know, desire, it's kinda hard to shut it again. I learned that the hard way.
I was up early the next morning, but Hayden beat me to it. He was already out running.
The guy's stamina was insane. Seriously, where does he get all that energy?
I bet a guy like him would be... intense in bed too.
I couldn't stop thinking about it, like I was under some kind of spell or something.
And you know who's to blame for this? Lena, with her terrible advice last night!
I didn't care how early it was; I grabbed my phone and texted her: [Hungry? Get up and have breakfast with me.]
I'd had oatmeal last night, but I'd been overthinking so much that I was starving again.
Normally, if I mentioned being hungry, Hayden would've already been whipping up breakfast. But today..
Yeah, I think it's best to avoid him for a bit.
I know I'm being totally dramatic, but I just can't deal right now.
I'd been alive for over twenty years, and last night was a first for me. Even though nothing actually happened, it somehow felt like it would've been less awkward if it had. The more I thought about it, the more embarrassed I got.
I couldn't help but wonder-do other couples feel this weird and awkward after they take that final step? Do they wake up the next morning as confused as I feel right now? Ugh, I'm really losing it.
Just as I hit send, Lena's video call popped up, like she'd been waiting for me to freak out. I hadn't even lifted my fingers off the phone screen yet.
"Well, looks like nothing happened last night, huh?" she teased, wasting no time.
"Seriously, if it weren't for you, would I be starving this early?" I shot back, throwing the blame at her.
Lena, lounging in her office chair with her white coat on, smirked. "What happened last night? Spill. I need some drama to kickstart my day." Chapter 242
I rolled
my eyes. "Dr. Lane, don't you have any professional ethics?"
"Insult me all you want, but don't you dare disrespect my sacred profession," she said, jabbing a finger at me through the screen.
"Buy me a meal, and I'll tell you everything." I stood up. "You're at the hospital, right? I'll come find you."
Lena yawned. "Sure, but bring me some almond milk pudding and crispy buns."
"Alright, Dr. Lane." I hung up and took a deep breath before heading to the bathroom.
Even though I barely slept, my reflection didn't look half bad. My skin was glowing, and my eyes seemed bright and awake. Weird.
Shouldn't I have dark circles or something?
Is this what they call the in love' glow?
I quickly freshened up, got dressed, and carefully cracked open the door, trying to sneak out without Hayden noticing
Perfect!
I managed to lock the door and sneak downstairs without a problem. But just as I let out a sigh of relief and headed toward my car, I heard Hayden's voice cut through the morning mist. "Going somewhere this early?" I froze, gripping my keys like they'd save my life.
Without turning around, I replied, "Just meeting up with Lena."
No sooner had I said it than I heard his footsteps getting closer. My brain screamed, run! so I took a quick step forward, hoping to make a clean getaway.
Yeah, no chance. With his long legs, he was in front of me in like two seconds, his eyes locked on mine. Are you okay? Did something happen?"
His voice was full of worry.
I didn't dare look at him, just shook my head. "No, no, Lena's on duty and she's hungry. I'm just bringing her some food."
Yeah, maybe that excuse would've worked a few years ago.
But now, with food delivery apps and all, she could've had whatever she wanted delivered straight to her in like ten minutes. No need for me to be running around this early.
Hayden wasn't dumb, he knew I was making it up. He sighed, his voice soft. "I knew you'd try to avoid me." I froze and looked up at him, totally caught off guard.
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He had this helpless yet fond smile on his face. "You've done it before. You've got a track record."
I didn't even know what to say.
My cheeks burned with a mix of embarrassment and annoyance.
Seriously? It was one thing for him to know, but did he really have to spell it out?
Clearly, his emotional intelligence was lacking.
u act all
"Kiki," he said softly, "you're so bold when you're doing something naughty, but afterward, you scared. You've been like this since we were kids."
I was about to snap back, but then it hit me.
Doing something naughty?
Last night, when I showed up at his door in my nightgown... he didn't think it was some innocent mistake. He knew I did it on purpose?
Oh my God!
This is beyond humiliating.
I almost crushed the car key in my hand as I straightened up, ready to argue back. "Who are you calling naughty? It's clearly you! You're the one who-Mmm..."
Before I could finish, Hayden leaned in and kissed me.
Maybe because he'd just been running, his lips were cool.
I froze, completely still.
I could see his eyes close, the way his lashes brushed his cheeks, and the perfect line of his n
nose...
Just as I was getting lost in the kiss-and, let's be real, how gorgeous he looked-Hayden pulled back, his hands still holding mine. "From now on, let me be the one doing the naughty things..." I blushed so hard I was sure I'd turned red all the way to my toes.
I stared down at my feet, too flustered to say a word.
"You're really just going to see Dr. Lane and it's not because something's wrong?" Hayden asked again.
I shook my head, words stuck in my throat.
Why was I feeling so shy all of a sudden? When I was dating Jace, people teased us all the time. He'd pinch my cheek, put his arm around me, even kiss me on the cheek in front of everyone. never felt this embarrassed back then.
But now? I was acting like a middle schooler with her first crush, getting all nervous just holding hands.
And to think I tried to act all cool and composed around him back in Chiverton.
Turns out, pretending and putting up walls don't work when someone sees right through you.
"I was going to make you some pasta, but I guess you're good," Hayden said gently. "Drive safe, okay?"
still didn't say anything. He chuckled. "Kiki, do you know what seeing you like this makes me want to do?" "What?" I asked.
He leaned in, his cheek brushing against mine, his lips just barely grazing my earlobe. "I want to kiss you more. Because if I kiss you enough, maybe you won't feel so shy anymore." That made my embarrassment skyrocket. I smacked him on the back twice.
Hayden laughed, and it only made me blush harder.
"Stop laughing!" I said, raising my hand to cover his mouth.
But then I felt it-a soft kiss against my palm.
A shock ran through me, and I yanked my hand away as he chuckled softly. "Alright, I'll stop teasing. Go on, and drive safely."
I bit my lip, my face on fire, and quickly turned around to get into the car.
Hayden stood outside, watching me with a smile.
He didn't smile often, but right now, his grin was so warm and bright, like the sun rising over the horizon. My heart melted, feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
So this is what real love feels like. It makes your blood race, your heart skip, and it feels like you're floating in a spring breeze, like everything's sweeter than honey.
I started the car, but I still felt all jittery under Hayden's gaze.
T
I drove a good distance, but when I glanced back in the rearview mirror, he was still there, watching me.
As I kept staring, I suddenly remembered what he'd said last night at the amusement park. He'd mentioned he was leaving today.
But I never asked where he was going.
I slammed on the brakes.
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"What's wrong?"
"Hayden!"
We spoke at the same time.
i
"You said you were leaving today, right? Where are you going?" I asked, panting as I ran over to him.
He frowned a little, probably because I'd just jumped out of my car, but when he heard my question, his expression softened, and a smile tugged at his lips. "What, worried I'm gonna run away?"
His teasing made my cheeks heat up. I pretended to be mad. "Seriously, where are you going?"
"I'm not leaving, at least not right now," Hayden said, dodging the question.
I frowned, "Huh?"
"I was planning to leave because my work here was done and there wasn't much keeping me around. But now things have changed," Hayden said as he stepped closer and leaned down, his eyes locked on mine. Because now I have a girlfriend." It felt like a jolt of electricity shot through me. I took a step back, overwhelmed, then turned around.
But before I could take another step, he grabbed my wrist and pulled me right into his arms.
His chin brushed against the top of my head, his voice low and husky. "I'm not going anywhere. And if I ever have to leave, I'll tell you, and I won't go unless you're okay with it."
My heart was practically doing backflips, and my whole body felt like it was on fire.
Seriously, this early in the morning? Him being all sweet and affectionate like this is just too much.
I was about to say something when a voice called out from behind us, "Oh my gosh!"
I jumped like I'd touched a live wire, trying to pull away from Hayden's arms.
But it was too late. Whoever saw us definitely saw everything. "I was wondering who was getting all cozy out here at this hour. Didn't expect it to be you two!"
It was Mrs. Lowrey.
Even though our neighbors already thought Hayden and I were a couple, getting caught like this was beyond embarrassing.
"Good morning, Mrs. Lowrey," Hayden said.
Meanwhile, I wanted to disappear into the ground, but Hayden seemed completely at ease.
"Not as early as you," Mrs. Lowrey said with a knowing smile, clearly aware that Hayden got up at the crack of dawn every day to work out. Then she tilted her head and looked at me. "It's rare to see Keira up this early."
Do they all think I'm lazy or something?
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"She gets up early every day too," Hayden said, stepping in to smooth over the awkwardness. Then he turned to me. "You should get going."
I nodded, not wasting any more time. What was I even waiting for?
As I walked away, Mrs. Lowrey leaned in closer to Hayden, and I overheard her saying, "Keira's so lucky to have a boyfriend like you-handsome, caring, and good at everything." She sounded genuinely envious.
"You've got it backwards. I'm the lucky one to have a girlfriend like her," Hayden actually replied.
Mrs. Lowrey laughed, "Hayden, you're too humble. You're even better than everyone says..."
I didn't catch the rest of their conversation, but I was pretty sure it was all good things.
I got in the car and drove off. As I left the neighborhood, I glanced back in the rearview mirror and saw Hayden still standing there, watching me.
It felt like his gaze could follow me forever.
I picked up some almond milk pudding and crispy buns for Lena, but she didn't even get a chance to touch them. Before she could ask me about last night, she got called into the OR for an emergency delivery.
With Lena busy, I couldn't hang around, but where was supposed to go this early in the morning?
Going back home didn't feel like an option.
So, I decided to head to the office. But as I stepped out of the hospital lobby, I almost crashed into a guy who was rushing in.
I managed to dodge just in time, or I would've been sent flying.
I still stumbled a bit, but the guy reached out and caught me. "I'm so sorry... Oh, wait... it's you?!"
I looked up, and, of course, I recognized him.
It was Brad, Tanya's brother.
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Thinking about how he'd accused me of stuff before, I decided to get back at him. "Let go, or I'll report you for harassment."
Brad just laughed. "Go ahead, I'd love to see that."
He looked way too confident for my liking.
Ugh, dealing with guys like him was so exhausting. I tried to pull my hand away, but he still didn't let go, that stupid smirk still plastered on his face. "It's been a while. You look even... prettier now." "Ew, get lost!" I snapped, yanking my hand back again.
But he still wouldn't let go. Instead, he stepped closer, still holding on. "Your temper's gotten worse, too."
Seriously, there's a saying that shameless people are invincible, and it's definitely true for someone like Brad.
"What are you doing? Flirting with a girl? Get your ass over here!" someone yelled from a few feet away.
So that's why he was in such a rush earlier-he actually had somewhere to be.
But now? He didn't seem bothered at all. He just ignored the person and tightened his grip on my hand. "I heard you're single now. Can I take you out?" Wow. That hit right where it hurt.
Single?
And whose fault is that?
His sister's!
She stole my fiancé, and now he thought he could ask me out? Unbelievable.
But after everything they put me through, I figured I'd have a little fun with it. So I gave him a sly smile." Sure, ask Tanya. If she's cool with it, go ahead."
"You mean it?" Brad's eyes actually lit up.
I panicked. Was this brat serious?
I was with Hayden now, and I was not looking to get tangled up with anyone else. But seeing the excitement on his face, I lifted my foot and stomped down on his toes.
He yelped and finally let go, hopping around on one foot, clutching the other.
I shot him a final glare before walking away.
"I'll still try! I like girls with some bite!" Brad yelled, his voice echoing through the hospital lobby, despite his obvious pain.
J picked up my pace, totally ignoring the maniac
I got into my car and just sat there for a second, trying to shake off the irritation Brad left me with. After a few deep breaths, I finally pulled out of the parking lot and headed to the office.
Chapter 245
I didn't even get halfway there when my phone rang. It was Cole.
My mind immediately went to the text he sent last night. Was he about to go see his dad?
I answered the call, making my voice deliberately cool "Mr. Drago, calling this early?"
"Did I wake you?" he teased, his tone playful.
"Is there something you need?" I asked, pretending to forget the message he'd sent last night.
Cole chuckled softly on the other end. "I'm heading over to my dad's now. I promised I'd introduce you, and I'm keeping my word. Still want to come?"
As if I'd pass that up?
"Sure, where are you? I'll come to you."
'I'll pick you up," Cole offered, throwing me off script.
I shut that down fast. "Oh, I wouldn't want to trouble you. Just give me the address, and I'll head over." He laughed again. "Are you wary of me?"
I didn't say anything. Sometimes, silence is your best bet when things get awkward.
As expected, after a few seconds, he caved and gave me the address. "Meet me at Serenity Retreat."
I knew that place. I'd been there before but never gone inside. "Alright, I'll be there in half an hour,"
Cole let out another soft laugh. "Looks like you've been to this place before."
1 froze, then lightly smacked my forehead, realizing I'd accidentally given myself away.
I didn't bother explaining.
He didn't push it either, just said, "See you soon!"
Chapter 246 My eyelids twitched, hard. This was definitely not a good sign.
But even if there were trouble ahead, I had to go.
Obviously, I wasn't just gonna walk into it. So, I texted Steve: [Hey, I'm heading to see Cole. Keep an eye out, okay?] No response. He was probably busy training.
Yeah, training, not sleeping in. Steve was prepping for some big tournament, and when he wasn't practicing, he was doing intense workouts.
Sleeping in just wasn't his thing.
I wasn't worried, though. He'd check his phone after practice, and I had some time before I had to face Cole.
With a deep breath, I hit the gas and drove straight to Serenity Retreat.
When I got there, Cole's massive Range Rover was already parked outside. He was out front, going through some slow exercises-either taking it seriously or just putting on a show.
I couldn't tell if he was really into it or just playing around, but it definitely looked better than smoking or staring at his phone.
Of course, his little show also meant he'd been waiting around for a while.
I parked and walked over quickly, apologizing as I got closer. "Sorry I'm late."
Cole finished his routine, let out a dramatic sigh, and smiled at me. "Waiting for a pretty lady never feels long."
This guy was never serious. I forced a smile. "Can we go in now?"
He raised an eyebrow. "You're going in just like that?"
I froze for a second, then it hit me. I came empty-handed, which wasn't exactly polite.
I didn't want to seem rude, so I fumbled for an excuse, Uh, it's so early I couldn't find a flower shop open."
"Sure," Cole chuckled, clearly amused by my weak cover story.
He didn't say anything, just raised his arm and snapped his fingers. Right on cue, someone walked over with a bouquet of fresh flowers.
"I took care of it," Cole said with a smug grin as his assistant handed me the flowers.
I felt a little awkward but accepted them anyway. "You're really thoughtful. Thanks."
"I'm only this thoughtful for a pretty lady," he said, clearly impressed with himself.
I could only go along with it. "You're very attentive."
Cole raised an eyebrow. "So, you agree."
Chapter 246 "Sure," I said, though I was already mentally rolling my eyes at how much time he was wasting with this whole show.
I cut to the chase. "Can we go in now?"
Cole pressed his lips together. "I'm not sure how much you know about my dad, but he's got his quirks. Especially over the last couple of years, since his health's been shaky, he's gotten even more... particular." My mouth twitched. You don't hear people talk about their dads like that every day.
I knew he was trying to tell me something without actually saying it. "Just let me know what I need to do. I'll make sure I'm prepared."
Cole glanced at his watch. "My dad doesn't meet with strangers."
"So, I'm counting on you to help me out here," I said, trying to sound as polite as possible.
Cole cracked his neck, like he was gearing up for something. "You're sharp, so I'll cut to the chase. Your can meet my dad, but you'll need to go in under a different identity."
I frowned, still not getting it. "Just spell it out for me."
Chapter
247
Cole stepped closer, and I instinctively took a step back. He smirked. "Be my girlfriend."
I blinked, totally caught off guard. Then I scoffed. "Not the best joke for this early in the morning. You
know-
"I'm serious," Cole interrupted. "Only my girlfriend gets to meet my dad."
I froze. He was definitely using this to trap me.
So, my twitching eyelids weren't just a random fluke. They were warning me about this.
"You probably don't know this, but my dad's always been paranoid. He doesn't trust anyone, especially now with his new position," Cole continued, launching into a whole explanation. "Too many people are trying to get close to him, and none of them have good intentions. So, to save his energy, he won't meet with anyone who isn't family."
But I knew he was just making excuses.
Then he added, "And as for me, let's be real. I was into you from the moment I saw you. I know I've got a rep as a player, and yeah, I've been with a lot of women, but they were all just for fun. Bringing one of them home? No chance. My dad would never go for it." He let out a self-deprecating laugh. He probably knew how shameless he sounded.
"But you're different. You're the kind of woman who's got it all together, someone who brings stability and good vibes. That's why I want to take things seriously, Cole said, looking straight at me.
I had to admit, he seemed genuinely sincere.
Half an hour ago, I had some brat trying to ask me out, and now here's a playboy doing the same.
It's either a total drought in my love life or a flood.
But just
last night, I'd made things official with Hayden, and now I couldn't shake the feeling that he was the one attracting all this chaos. "You're sincere, I can tell. And I appreciate the misplaced affection, but I'm sorry-I have a boyfriend," I replied, just as bluntly. Cole laughed. "That's a pretty weak excuse. Last time we played snooker, I asked Steve, and he said you were single."
"True. I only started dating someone last night."
Cole gave an amused smile. "What a coincidence."
I just gave him a tight-lipped smile, not saying anything
"How about this-you name your conditions, and I'll meet them. What will it take for you to say yes?" he asked again. Yep, definitely something a rich guy would say.
I stayed quiet, and Cole kept going. "If you agree to be my girlfriend-or better yet, my wife-you'll be the
1/2
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lady of VastReach Group. I'd transfer all my assets to you once we're married. Plus, I-"
"Have you forgotten who my ex-fiancé is?" I cut him off.
He was trying to impress me with his family's fortune, but compared to the Johnston family, it wasn't much.
Cole's smile faltered for a second, then he recovered. That's actually what I like about you-you're not swayed by money
"So, find someone else who is. I'm really not the right person for you," I said, keeping my voice sincere.
Cole lowered his gaze, staying quiet for a moment before meeting my eyes again. "You're the first person to ever turn me down."
"It's not that I'm rejecting you. We're just not compatible. You made it clear-you want someone who'll be by your side, helping with your life and business. But I just want a simple relationship and a-" I paused as an image of Yuna's calm, peaceful life flashed in my mind. "I want a life where it's just me and my partner, enjoying the little things. And with your background, that's not something you can give me," I said with a smile.
Sometimes, a smile says more than words. Cole might not be the most tactful person, but he was being genuine, so I had to respond sincerely too. And I needed his help, so I couldn't afford to make him angry.
He stayed silent, which made me a little anxious.
I exhaled and decided to be direct. "I've made my stance clear. If I don't become your girlfriend today. can I still walk through that door?"
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Hello 248
deeply. "Just tell me, why do you want to see my father?"
I frowned a little. Was he changing his mind again?
Earlier, when I mentioned needing his dad's help to appraise something, he assumed I had some rare item. Now, it seemed like he realized there was more to it. Since I was already here, there was no point in hiding the truth anymore. I decided to be upfront.
After listening, Cole's expression turned serious. "Then you should leave."
I felt something was off. "Why?"
"If you're planning to meet my dad for this, you're wasting your time. He's not going to tell you anything." Cole said, like he knew his dad's every move.
But if there was nothing to hide, why would his dad be so cagey? His dad's refusal would only make me more determined to get to the bottom of this. "What if I don't back off? Maybe your dad's got nothing to hide after all," I said, refusing to back down.
Cole shook his head, looking a little resigned. "You're really stubborn, you know that? Fine, I'll call him. If he's cool with it, I'll take you to see him." He pulled out his phone and dialed, putting it on speaker.
"What is it?" Thorsten's deep voice came through.
"Hey, I was thinking of bringing someone over. A woman. To see you," Cole said carefully, not giving away who I was.
"Don't bring random women around just to bug me," Thorsten's voice grew sharper.
Cole shot me a quick look with a playful smirk. "Do you really think I'd bring someone who's not worth your time? She's a good person."
There was silence on the other end. I held my breath, half-hoping he'd agree, but then Thorsten said, "Not today. I've got important guests."
"Then we'll wait inside. We can meet after you're done, Cole said, catching me off guard. For someone who usually didn't care much, he was going out of his way to help me. "Didn't you hear me?" Thorsten snapped before hanging up.
Cole just shrugged at me, his expression saying, 'Hey, don't blame me for not trying."
I stared at the gate, blocked by the iron bars, wondering who this "important guest" was that Thorsten
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wouldn't even see his own son.
A hand waved in front of my face, snapping me out of my thoughts. It was Cole. "You're not seriously thinking about climbing over, are you?"
I pressed my lips together. "Do you know who your dad's meeting today?"
They were father and son-the closest bond there is. And from what Cole had said earlier, he seemed to know a bit about his dad's dealings.
Cole chuckled. 'No clue. My dad's life basically revolves around two things: making money and schmoozing with people."
He said it in that annoyingly casual way only someone ridiculously privileged could.
Still, it was obvious Cole didn't want to say more. Just then, his phone rang. He glanced at the screen and then back at me. "Steve knows you came to see me?" Wait, how did he know it had to do with me when he hadn't even picked up?
I just gave him a small, knowing smile.
Cole's expression darkened. Without a word, he declined the call.
My heart jumped. That was definitely going to make Steve think something was up, and I knew he'd be blowing up my phone any second.
Chapter 249 Sure enough, my phone rang just as I had that thought, This was beyond awkward.
Cole's mouth twisted into a mocking smile. "Guess you don't trust me, huh? So why bother messing with me?"
I didn't have a good answer for him.
He took a step back. "Let's just pretend we don't know each other from now on."
Then he got into his car and took off, leaving me standing there as the wind whipped at my clothes and tangled my hair.
Wow. This guy could change his mood in a split second. Ten minutes ago, he was all about his feelings and wanting to pursue me. And now, one phone call later, he's throwing a fit?
But maybe it was for the best. At least now I wouldn't have to worry about him chasing after me or causing any more drama.
As Cole drove off, I glanced again at the locked gates, wondering who Thorsten's important guest could be Was it Matthew?
The thought made me pause before I called Lindey.
"Rea! I was just about to call you!" she said, not even letting me get a word in.
I can only asked, "Everything okay?"
"Let's have lunch together. You know, that place we used to go all the time, Signature Soirée. Be there by eleven." Her tone made it clear this wasn't a request.
I didn't say no right away and went with it. "Is Matthew coming too?"
"He's not," Lindey said, totally chill. "He's out and probably won't be back until later this afternoon."
Out all day?
That was strange. Ever since he handed the company over to Jace, Matthew hardly ever went out. "Did he go far?" I asked, pushing a little.
"Nah, just meeting up with an old friend. They usually have tea and play chess when they hang out," she said.
My grip tightened around the phone. So I'd guessed right-Matthew was Thorsten's important guest.
I knew they were close, but this was getting more complicated. The contract my dad left behind made sure of that.
"Rea, did you need something from Matthew?" Lindey asked, snapping me back to reality.
"No, I just thought it was a family lunch."
Chapter 249 "What family lunch? Lindey scoffed. "We haven't had one since you left."
I knew she didn't mean to blame me, but it still felt like my fault.
I couldn't exactly argue, but I wasn't going to apologize either. I hadn't done anything wrong. ""You've got sighed.
got to come. I haven't seen you in forever, and there's so much I want to talk about," Lindey I felt trapped. If I went, she'd probably start spilling about Jace and Tanya. But as his ex, I wasn't about to get involved.
And I definitely didn't want to be her emotional punching bag.
"I'm not sure I can make it," I said, still turning her down.
"Are you planning to cut ties with me completely? Since you left, I haven't had a single good night's sleep or a proper meal. Today, can't you just be my daughter and have lunch with me?" Lindey guilt-tripped me hard.
How could I say no to that? I sighed, feeling cornered. "I'll do my best to come, "I'll be waiting for you," she said, making it clear there was no backing out now.
Chapter 250 Chapter 250 I decided to go. Maybe Lindey could tell me something about my parents' car accident.
After making up my mind, I checked the time. I still had a few hours before lunch, so I headed to the office.
"Good morning, Ms. Kay!" Ron greeted me with a big grin, like I was some sort of miracle cure that brightened his day. "Morning, Mr. Shane!" I replied.
"You're glowing today, Ms. Kay. Is it love?" he teased, like we were old buddies or something.
Hayden's sweet kisses flashed through my mind, and I couldn't help but smile a little. "Maybe it's just the good weather."
Since we weren't exactly close, I wasn't about to spill my personal life.
He laughed, and I headed straight to my office.
It was Monday, which meant the usual department meeting.
During the meeting, everyone gave their updates.
Sean Lyon, one of our employees, handed me a contract. "Ms. Kay, this is a new lighting supplier I've been talking to. They're a startup and want our technical guidance. Could you take a look at the contract?" I skimmed the document. "They've only been around for, what, a month?' "Yeah, they're really new," Sean admitted, looking a bit uneasy.
Partnering with a fresh company was risky-way more than working with an established one-because of all the unknowns.
Probably worried I'd shut it down, Sean added quickly, But don't worry, I negotiated the payment terms. They'll pay fifty percent upfront, twenty-five percent midway, and the rest after the project's done."
I smiled. "They're definitely putting in the effort. Looks like they really want to work with us."
"Yeah, they're super eager. I'd feel guilty shutting them down, Sean said with a relieved grin.
The others chuckled, teasing him. "Sincerity, huh? What'd they offer? Free gifts or someone special?"
Sean waved his hands, laughing. "No, nothing like that! wouldn't dare break any company rules. They're just genuinely impressed by what we can do."
I nodded. "Their sincerity definitely shows."
Even though it was just a casual comment, everyone started cheering for Sean. "Great job, Sean! If your seal this deal, you're treating us all to dinner!"
Sean was quick to deflect. "That's only if Ms. Kay gives me the green light."
The contract needed my approval first, then Ron's, before we could move forward.
We weren't short on clients, so we didn't have to jump at every opportunity. That's probably why Jace's Chapter 250 proposal had been shot down by our mysterious boss before.
I thought about that elusive boss and felt a surge of curiosity. I still didn't have a single clue who he was. With Sean looking at me hopefully, I didn't make any promises. "Send me a copy of their background. I'll review it and let you know." Sean gave me an enthusiastic thumbs-up, and the meeting wrapped up The background check was pretty straightforward. The company's head had been a technician at another firm for a few years, and it looked like this was a partnership, based on the number of shareholders.
These types of companies had their ups and downs. The good part was that no single person's issues would disrupt the whole operation. The downside? Too many people calling the shots could complicate things for us. After considering the pros and cons, I decided the partnership with this company seemed doable and went to talk to Ron.
Ron was acting as the big boss for now, and from what I'd seen, the company wasn't focused on rapid expansion. They were more into steady growth and maintaining quality.
When it came to choosing clients, we definitely valued quality over quantity.
Ron's office door was open, and he was on the phone. I was about to step back and come by later, but he waved me in.
Yes, we're seriously looking for a chief tech officer, someone top-notch in lighting engineering.. Salary's not an issue. If he's down to join, I'd even step down for him... Awesome, I'm counting on you. Talk soon.