Ch. 991..1000

Chapter 991

Unfortunately, Cooper had to make Genevieve believe the act, so he pushed his anger down. Exasperated, he turned to Genevieve and said, "It's as you see, Genev. She is the one I love and the only one I wil marry."

Cooper turned his attention to Armand after that. "It's late. Mr. Faulkner, please help me take Genev home."

Armand murmured an affirmative reply before heading over to grab Genevieve's bag and lead her out of the room.

Cooper waited until Armand and Genevieve had left before he dropped his smile and picked up the cutlery on the table. "I already have dinner, so you can take everything you brought with you and leave." He paused for a moment before mercilessly adding, "Also, please never visit again."

Sally pulled up a chair and sat down before crossing her legs and leaning back. “I just did you a favor, and this is how you repay me? By chasing me away?"

Cooper grabbed the bowl of soup and kept sipping away. It was as though he were pretending that she wasn't there.

Sally saw the half-peeled apple on the table, so she picked it up and continued peeling it.

Her gaze was aimed downward, and her voice was stoic when she said, "My aim and gunmanship are on point. The bullet I fired wouldn't have missed my target's head, so I can say for sure that I'm not the one who shot you."

"You may not be the one who shot me, but you are still the one who fired first," growled Cooper as he slammed his bowl of soup onto the table. He had a scowl on the entire time he spoke.

The situation at the time had everyone on edge, so no one dared to make the first move. However, Sally, who was hidden in the shadows, had fired her gun.

If Harry hadn't dashed forward, Genevieve would've been dead.

Sally replied, "Even if I wasn't the one who shot first, Zephyr would still kill everyone after grabbing those diamonds."

Cooper was too tired to listen to her excuses, so he grinned evilly. "Armand wasn't there at the time, so he doesn't know the specifics of what happened. What do you think will happen to the Loake family if he were to discover those details? You killed the President of the Carlo family, so in a way, you have avenged Ethan's death. That means I'm no longer your tool and am free to share whatever information I want with whomever I want."

Cooper had only struck a deal with Sally to protect Genevieve. That was why he had volunteered to be the bait.

He also thought that Zephyr wasn't dumb enough to come all the way to Chanaea to hurt Genevieve. It simply didn't make any sense. After all, Zephyr knew just how powerful Genevieve's maternal family and Armand were.

"I have never seen you as a tool," said Sally as she placed the peeled apple she had cut on a plate.

"Oh, then what are we? F*ck buddies?" said Cooper as he looked right at Sally's beautiful face. He narrowed his eyes and sneered. "Ms. Loake, your family is powerful, but I'm not interested in being your man. If you miss Ethan that much, may I suggest finding someone who looks similar to him? You can get the guy to do plastic surgery so he would look exactly like Ethan.

That way, you can have Ethan back."

Jane's death had killed whatever little capacity Cooper had left in his heart for love. At that moment, he was done with love and didn't want to waste his time on another woman again.

He would settle for a future where all he had to do was to protect Specter Corporation and Genevieve.

Genevieve didn't come around until she was inside the elevator. She frowned and said, "Wait a minute, why should I leave? She's the one who's snatching my man."

Under normal circumstances, shouldn't I be so furious that I slap that woman across her face or something? Why did I leave just like that?

It was also at that moment she realized her hand was a little warm. When she shifted her gaze to it, she saw Armand holding her hand.

The realization prompted her to extract her hand from his grip. She could still feel the warmth from his palm, and it felt weird. Not quite knowing what to do with her hand, she reached out and pressed the button on the elevator.

Armand double-tapped the same button, canceling the command for the elevator to head back up and allowing it to continue moving to the underground parking lot.

"What are you doing? I want to head back there to teach that homewrecker a lesson," complained Genevieve.

"You can do that the next time you run into her," replied Armand. "You don't like the pungent smell of disinfectants in the hospital, anyway."

The inpatient department had many long-term patients who had to stay there to receive treatment. Hence, the smell of disinfectant was heavier there. It also reeked of different medications, so Genevieve did feel rather uncomfortable there.

They had stayed in Cooper's room for quite some time before they left, so the scent of disinfectants lingered on them.

Armand fished a small tin box out of his pocket. He got two pieces of candy out of it and handed them to Genevieve. She hesitated for a moment before accepting them.

When she popped them into her mouth, she realized they were cherry blossom-flavored candies that were sweet and fragrant.

The discomfort Genevieve felt faded when those candies melted in her mouth. Curious, she asked, "Have I ever told you that I dislike the smell of disinfectants?"

Chapter 992

"No, but I can tell from the look on your face," replied Armand as he put the box of candy back in his pocket.

When they reached the underground parking lot, Armand dug his car keys out and unlocked the car.

Genevieve thought that she should get a cab home instead, but when Armand opened the door and looked at her, she entered the car without a second thought.

She moved with so much ease that it was as though she had done it a million times.

When Armand got into the car, he leaned toward the passenger seat and helped Genevieve strap on her safety belt.

Genevieve saw his head of hair right in front of her. It looked so perfect that she was tempted to run her fingers through his hair and mess it up.

"There's no need for that. I can do it myself," said Genevieve. She grabbed the buckle from Armand and put her safety belt on. Her tone was even, but her heartbeat was not.

Armand returned to his seat and put on his safety belt.

The rain had stopped by then.

As he turned the steering wheel, he chatted with Genevieve. "What would you like to have for dinner? Grilled meat or pasta?"

"Uhm, grilled meat. It's been a while since I-" said Genevieve before she clamped her mouth shut.

Armand caught her stopping herself short. The look on her face made it clear that she was wondering why she even answered that question in the first place. She looked so adorable that he chuckled aloud. How is my wife so cute?

"Are you laughing at me?" demanded Genevieve. She glared at him and had anger written all over her face.

"I chuckled because I thought you were cute," answered Armand sincerely. "If I wasn't driving, I would have kissed you already."

Genevieve knew that she should call the police and sue him for harassment, but she blushed red instead.

Resting her chin on her hand, she turned her head to look out the window. The light in the car was on, and the sky was dark, so she could see his handsome side profile through the reflection.

She was in a daze for a while before she realized something important. I don't think I told him where I live. Wait, then where is he taking me?

Genevieve didn't know why, but crazy thoughts and theories kept running wildly through her mind. She was going to ask Armand where they were going when the car stopped right in front of a restaurant. "Mr. Faulkner, it's been so long since you came," greeted a waitress in her uniform when she saw them entering the place.

She turned her attention to Genevieve after that and smiled. "And you've gotten more stunning, Mrs. Faulkner."

Genevieve knew that the waitress was just doing her job when she complimented her, but that "Mrs. Faulkner" bit seemed a little over the line. The former was going to tell the latter that she was still single when Armand suddenly asked for a private room and took Genevieve there.

When they got into the room, Armand took off his coat and draped it over the back of his chair before saying, "Please wait here for a moment."

He left the place after that.

The table had been set by then and had a dark grey tablecloth on it. A plate of fruit and nuts was sitting there, along with a pot of coffee.

Genevieve could smell the fragrant scent of coffee in the air and knew that it was high-quality beans. Thus, she helped herself to a cup while munching on some nuts.

When the door to the room was opened again, two servers showed up with a portable barbecue grill and the ingredients for making grilled meat.

A few more minutes went by before Armand showed up with an apron in his hands.

"Here, put on the apron so that the sauce won't get on your clothes," said Armand as he stood in front of her and gestured for her to put her hands up. While he unfolded the apron, Genevieve said that she could do it herself. Regardless, she still raised her arms obediently.

Armand chuckled, put the apron on her, and tied it with a bow knot.

Genevieve was speechless.

Is everything I do really that funny?

When the servers showed up with the barbecue grill earlier, they had plugged it in, so the temperature was just right by then.

Armand grabbed a piece of beef and placed it on the grill. He waited until it was cooked before he dipped it in a bowl of raw egg.

Genevieve chowed down the grilled beef coated with egg. Everything was made to perfection, and it was so tasty that her eyes glowed.

"Keep making them," requested Genevieve.

Armand's furrowed brows eased, and he was relieved to see Genevieve having a good appetite. He smiled and kept making the grilled meat for her. As he did that, he chatted with her.

"You know, since Cooper has a girlfriend now, why don't you give me a shot?"

Chapter 993

Genevieve had just popped another piece of grilled meat into her mouth when she heard those words. It surprised her so much that she forgot she was eating. When she turned her head to him, her cheeks were bulging like a chipmunk's.

It seemed that no matter how much time passed, she would always act like a girl who hadn't grown up. Armand found her adorable, regardless of what she did.

At this, Armand was gripped with the sudden urge to kiss his wife.

Genevieve was stunned for a few seconds. Then, she chewed quickly and swallowed her food before downing some coffee. "Uh, what did you just say?"

"I want to be your husband," repeated Armand.

Some might find those words cheesy, but Genevieve didn't feel irritated when she heard Armand say them. It was as though she was naturally drawn to him.

Genevieve kept her eyes on Armand and asked, "Uh, Mr. Faulkner, how old are you?"

"Thirty-seven."

Genevieve's shoulders slumped as soon as she heard that response. She put another piece of grilled meat into her mouth and waved her hand at him. "I'm into men like Coop and am not interested in older guys."

Armand sighed internally. He massaged his brows and said, "I'm only a few years older than you."

"That is not a few years. It's almost a decade apart," corrected Genevieve. "In theory, an age difference of three years is enough to make communication difficult between partners. It'll be even worse in this case because we're nine years apart."

Suspicious, Genevieve scanned Armand and said, "Also, why aren't you married, even though you're thirty-seven already?"

There can only be one reason why a man at his age is still unmarried.

"I married a few years ago but divorced later on. I became busy with work after that, so I never remarried," explained Armand in frustration. "My sexuality is not the problem."

Genevieve shrugged and insisted, "Then you should continue focusing on your job. I'm not into old men."

Armand's heart was mercilessly crushed when she said those words.

He leaned closer to Genevieve and rested his arm on the back of her chair. In a deep voice, he said, "I have more experience than you, can love you unconditionally, and will learn about everything you love. That way, there won't be a communication issue between us. Also, I'm a great chef and can cook whatever you want for you."

Genevieve pouted and shrugged nonchalantly. "I'm rich, so I can afford to eat whatever I want. I don't need you to cook for me."

That was when a server came in to deliver something.

Armand noticed that Genevieve had already finished eating the grilled meat he made, so he had the server make more for them.

The server nodded and quickly placed the raw beef on the grill. Lathering the meat with sauce, he flipped the beef expertly. He handed Genevieve a plate when everything was done. Genevieve popped one piece into her mouth and chewed a little, but she frowned soon after.

It's not good.

Assuming that the beef was from a different breed of cow, she spat the grilled meat she had in her mouth out and turned to the server. "I want the same type of beef you got us earlier." "This is the same type. Mr. Faulkner simply had us top it up for you."

That particular server was an experienced chef and was great at his job. Hence, he felt disheartened when he saw Genevieve spitting that grilled meat out and left dejectedly. I guess she doesn't like my cooking.

It didn't take long before the owner of the place showed up in person.

The owner was known for being a great chef, but Genevieve still thought that the food she made was rather bland.

The owner soon realized what was going on. She smiled and said, "I heard that Mr. Faulkner is a great chef. You must be used to his cooking, and that's why you find our food lacking."

Used to his cooking? But I've only ever tasted his cooking once. How could I be used to it?

After trying the grilled meat that two other chefs made, Genevieve realized that Armand's cooking truly was incredible. She was too embarrassed to ask him to cook more for her, though, so she ended up staring at him.

Armand's heart softened right away. He continued cooking for her.

When she was full, Armand grabbed some leftover grilled meat for himself. "Genev, let's make a deal."

For the moment, Genevieve didn't realize that he had called her Genev. She suspiciously asked, "What sort of deal?"

Chapter 994

"Let's date for a year. I'll play the role of your boyfriend in the meantime and will do whatever you want. I'll also take care of you," suggested Armand. "If you still haven't fallen for me in a year, I will stop badgering you and will work in your company for the rest of my life."

Genevieve had been working for some time now, and she had learned from her colleagues that Armand was Robert's godson and, thus, his heir. It seemed that Armand was only there to learn the basics. Getting the future leader to work for my company... That's not something I would even dare dream about!

Armand saw how quiet Genevieve had gotten, so he slowly lured her in. "You know, if I'm your boyfriend, I will cook for you, and you can have delicious meals every day. Also, didn't you see how Cooper was when he declared his love for another woman right in front of you? Don't you want to get a boyfriend and rub it in his face as well?"

Genevieve thought he made sense.

"You're a great chef, but you don't have anything else," said Genevieve. She frowned and seemed troubled. "If I want to piss Coop off, all I have to do is hire a cute guy to play the part. You're so much older than I am that there's a good chance Coop won't be affected at all. Worse still, his new girlfriend might diss me for getting someone so old-"

Before Genevieve could even finish speaking, Armand leaned closer to her to cradle her face before pulling her in to kiss her on her lips.

Genevieve was stunned, especially when she thought about how greasy her mouth was from the grilled meat she had earlier.

Armand had drank some coffee, so a hint of the coffee's fragrance lingered in his mouth. His unique cologne was nice as well, and Genevieve gradually lost herself in that kiss. When that kiss ended, Armand backed away.

He traced her lips with his thumb. In a hoarse voice, he said, "I can do so much more than cook, and you will learn how amazing I am, especially when we're in the bedroom."

In the bedroom?

Shyness and awkwardness overwhelmed Genevieve when she heard those words. She blushed so much that even her ears seemed to be burning red.

Irritated, she glared at the man without saying a word.

How is he so good at flirting? Is it because he has had plenty of practice? Has he done that to other women?

"Nope," replied Armand. He could tell what she was thinking just by looking at her. Defeated, he explained, "I have never been with another woman before, and I'm physically fit." Genevieve shot him a puzzled look. "But you were married before, right?"

Armand couldn't exactly tell her that he had never been with another woman before because she was the one he married. Hence, he changed the subject by asking her if she was full. He grabbed her purse soon after, and the two of them left together.

Armand paid for the meal and bought a yogurt drink after that. He twisted the cap open, then handed the bottle to Genevieve.

"Here, have some. It'll help with your digestion."

The owner of the place heard that when she handed Armand's credit card back to him. She smiled and commented, "Aww, you are as sweet as usual, Mr. Faulkner, and are spoiling your wife again. I'm so envious."

In the midst of drinking the yogurt, Genevieve paused when she heard those words.

When they got back into the car, Genevieve turned to Armand and frowned. "You used to take your ex to this place, didn't you? Do I look a lot like her?"

After several strange exchanges with the restaurant's staff and owner, Genevieve slowly caught on to something.

"My gosh, you're not just old. You're also despicable!" complained Genevieve. She didn't know why, but she was suddenly furious. "Are you courting me because you can't get your ex back? Do you simply see me as her replacement?"

"No. If anything, she is a replacement for you," replied Armand with his head lowered. He didn't start the engine.

"Huh?" said Genevieve. She couldn't quite get what was going on.

In a sorrowful tone, Armand replied, "We met a long time ago, but you dismissed me and regarded me as a stranger. That is why, when I met someone who looked like you, I married her and pretended she was you. Unfortunately, a replacement will always be the second choice. I couldn't love her, so we got a divorce. Back then, I lied to myself and convinced myself she was you. That was why I went on dates with her and took her to nice restaurants like these. It's also why the owner mistook you for her."

For the longest time, Genevieve didn't know what to do with what he said. She never imagined that his ex was the second choice.

Chapter 995

Armand leaned over and held Genevieve's face in his warm palms. "One can tell lies, but their eyes can't. Genev, look at me in my eyes. Do I look like I'm lying?"

The reflection of her face could be seen clearly in his eyes, which were full of gentleness and affection.

Genevieve shook her head.

Armand kissed her and said gently, "Now that a good opportunity has presented itself, I don't wish to miss it again. I hope you can consider me, yes?" "Okay," Genevieve instinctively answered.

Smiling, he sat back in his seat. After fastening his seatbelt, he drove toward Regality Gardens and stopped right in front of her condominium.

He got off the car and helped her open the door. "Do you have any cravings for breakfast tomorrow?"

"Pan-fried steak and mushroom soup."

"Okay, then I'll come over earlier tomorrow." Armand passed her bag over and lightly caressed her chin. "Have an early night."

It wasn't until he drove his car away did Genevieve snap out of her daze.

Regality Gardens usually has tight security measures. Vehicles of non-residents aren't allowed in here. How did Armand get in? And how did he know where I live?

Heading into the building, Genevieve reached for her phone while waiting for the elevator. She had added Armand's contact on WhatsApp after she regained consciousness at the hospital but had never chatted with him.

She tapped on the man's contact, intending to tell him not to come over tomorrow and that she was not interested in playing any games with him.

I'm not a young girl who loves playing such childish games.

However, just as she was about to send the message after crafting it, she recalled how skilled Armand was at grilling meat at the barbecue restaurant earlier. At once, she froze on the spot.

It'd be pretty nice if I could get a man with such impressive cooking skills to cook for me every day...

Right then, the elevator door opened. As Genevieve walked in, she deleted what she had typed and threw her phone back into the bag.

The following day, after turning off the alarm on her phone beside her pillow, she lay in bed for a little longer. Eventually, she headed to the bathroom to wash up before finally exiting her room while yawning. She intended to return to change her clothes and put on some makeup after breakfast.

Before she even walked near the kitchen, the smell of perfectly pan-fried steak wafted into her nose. At once, she felt her stomach growling. "Rosa, what did you make for breakfast today? It smells amazing..." Directing her gaze toward the open-design kitchen, Genevieve immediately realized that the person making breakfast was not Rosa but Armand.

The man, with a gray apron on, had his head bowed as he prepared the food. Unlike the expressionless and domineering leader he usually was at work, he was giving off warmth and liveliness at that instant. Genevieve was bewildered by that sight before her. If he ever participates in a food program, he'll surely be able to attract every female audience's attention based on his looks alone!

Right then, Armand lifted his head and looked toward Genevieve. The man was visibly stunned almost instantaneously before his gaze darkened drastically. Following the man's intense gaze, Genevieve realized that the strap to her robe had unknowingly loosened, revealing the low V-neck satin nightdress inside.

Not only was the dress short in length, but its satin fabric perfectly outlined her curves.

Genevieve did not deem it an issue to be dressed like this usually since there was only Rosa in the house.

It was out of her expectations that a man would pop up out of nowhere that particular day.

A mix of anger and embarrassment surged within Genevieve, leaving her face flushing red. She ran toward her bedroom and changed into a black suit she pulled out from her walk-in closet. After calming down, she stormed out again, intending to settle the score with Armand.

However, at that point, he brought out a plate of pan-fried steak and a bowl of mushroom soup and placed them on the dining table. Following that, he grabbed a box of strawberries from the refrigerator and washed them.

Seeing the dishes on the table, the hungry Genevieve walked over, pulled up a chair, and sat down.

As the steak was still burning hot, she blew on it for a long while, attempting to cool it down.

By the time Armand returned to the table with a plate of strawberries, Genevieve was no longer as annoyed as earlier, and that was all thanks to the steak she devoured.

Nonetheless, she still wore a grim expression. "How did you know I'm staying here?"

"Cooper told me previously."

Hearing that, Genevieve could not help but inwardly blame Cooper for sharing every detail with Armand, depriving her of her privacy. "But how can you enter my house as you wish?"

"I told you last night I'll come over earlier to make breakfast for you today. Besides, I'm your boyfriend now. I should have the right to enter your house." Armand passed her a napkin to wipe her mouth before he suddenly continued, "How's the pan-fried steak?"

His sudden change of topic caught Genevieve by surprise, and she could not process it promptly. "It's delicious."

Chapter 996

In the next second, Genevieve frowned and shot daggers at Armand. "What makes you think you're my boyfriend? Did I agree to it?"

"You sat down and ate the breakfast I made. I took that to mean you approved of my cooking skills and agreed to be my girlfriend." The man chuckled. "Oh yes. I marinated some pork loins earlier, which should be ready by noon. I'll make you baked pork chop for lunch later."

After a slight pause, he sighed. "Oh wait, I forgot I'm still not your boyfriend. Let me get rid of all the food now."

With that said, he pushed his chair away and stood up, ready to clear the dishes on the table.

Genevieve, who had yet to satisfy her hunger, immediately grabbed the man's wrist upon seeing his action. "Why are you so petty? I'll pay for the dishes; is that fine?"

"I'm sorry," Armand rejected heartlessly. "Only my girlfriend gets to eat my cooking."

"Fine, I'll agree to it!" Genevieve hastily uttered. In truth, she had already agreed to it since last night. The reason she was annoyed was that he had seen her in a nightdress just now.

We've only met a few times, after all. How can he suddenly appear at my house? Who wouldn't be surprised if they were in such a situation?

Armand sat down at the dining table.

Glancing at the hand grabbing onto him, he was intrigued by how attractive and slender it was. But at the same time, he felt his heart ache at the sight of the faint scar on the wrist.

He had asked the doctor to perform a scar removal surgery on Genevieve. However, the scar could only be reduced and not completely removed.

An indescribable pain pricked his heart, and in response, he grabbed Genevieve's wrist and planted a kiss on that scar.

Genevieve felt a slight itch as a result of his action.

Perhaps because Armand was too tender with his kiss, but she was not repulsed by it and merely retracted her hand a little instinctively.

In response, the man grabbed her tightly and stopped her from withdrawing her hand further. With his other hand, he fished out a sandalwood rosary bracelet from his pocket. The beads on it were tiny and had prayers carved on them.

Genevieve detected a light scent of sandalwood-it was like a soothing breeze, so fresh and invigorating it could leave one feeling at ease.

The bracelet twirled around Genevieve's wrist thrice, fitting her just perfectly.

"Is this a gift?" There was a tinge of disdain in Genevieve's eyes as she glanced at the rosary bracelet on her wrist. "But I prefer a bangle or an emerald bracelet."

I have several drawers of jewelry in my walk-in closet. If I leave them there to collect dust, then what's the point in buying them in the first place?

Armand grunted a response and gently brushed the rosary with his fingers. "I polished every bead myself. The prayers on them were hand carved by me too." He was a free thinker.

However, if religion could protect his loved one, he would unconditionally place his faith in the gods he never believed existed.

These beads are so tiny. I wonder how this guy managed to carve prayers on them? Genevieve could not imagine it at all.

"Wear it from now on, and don't remove it," Armand uttered. "You can wear your other pieces of jewelry on the other wrist. These beads are made with high-quality sandalwood. Smell it when you're tired as it'll also make you feel relaxed."

Genevieve could attest to that since the light sandalwood scent had calmed her down earlier even when she did not bring the bracelet close to her nose.

Without hesitation, she accepted the gift.

"Since I gave you a gift, shouldn't you also give me something in return?" Armand asked.

"How about I buy you a wristwatch?" Genevieve responded.

The man did not see the need for another watch. In truth, she had given him a wristwatch a few years ago, and he had been wearing it since.

Armand lowered his head and fixed his gaze on her. "Give me a kiss."

At the thought of that sudden kiss he planted on her last night, Genevieve immediately placed her fingers on his lips and shoved him away. "I want to eat the steak now. It won't be nice once it turns cold." Armand laughed silently.

While Genevieve returned to her room to put on makeup after breakfast, the man washed the plates and took another look at the pork loins in the oven before removing his apron and leaving it on the kitchen counter.

Shortly after, Genevieve walked out with her hands on her ear, seemingly struggling to put on her earrings.

At the sight of that, Armand approached her, took the pearl earring from her grip, and gently put it on for her.

He also grabbed the bag from her shoulder and put it on his.

At the doorway, Armand opened the shoe cabinet, and after asking what Genevieve wanted to wear, he pulled out the black pointed high heels from the second rack and got down on his knees to put them on for her.

Throughout the entire process, the man was so skilled and natural it made Genevieve feel as though they were a couple who had been married for a long time. It was almost like such behavior was a daily routine to them.

Chapter 997

As the car was nearing the government building, it suddenly dawned upon Genevieve that Armand was her superior. If anyone sees me getting off his car, they'll surely spread rumors about it.

Thus, she had Armand stop the car by the roadside. "I can walk in myself."

"Are you worried that the others will find out about our relationship?"

Genevieve tucked away the stray strands of hair by the side of her face and turned to look at him. "Look at me. I look pretty, no matter what. And you're my superior, who's nine years older than me. The others won't think that a man your age would want a woman like me. Instead, they'll believe that I'm using my beauty to bewitch you and climb into your bed so that I can get a higher position at work."

Her words made Armand burst into a peal of laughter. Despite so, he decelerated and stopped the car by the roadside.

Genevieve unfastened her seatbelt, ready to get off the vehicle.

At the same time, Armand also unfastened his and leaned closer to her. "My gift, Genev."

She glanced at the rosary bracelet on her wrist and whipped her head toward him. The man, at that point, had his head hung low while gazing at her intently. That tender look in his eyes... and those thin lips... What a beautiful sight.

An inexplicable urge to kiss Armand struck Genevieve so suddenly that she leaned forward and bit his lower lip.

Initially, the man thought she would only kiss his cheek. Since she had initiated a kiss on his lips, he decided there was no need to go easy on her either. Cradling her face, he forcefully invaded her mouth with his tongue for a passionate and intense kiss.

It had been too long since he last kissed Genevieve, and he was yearning for it so badly.

The brick red lipstick Genevieve applied had been smudged because of that steamy kiss.

Without a choice, she could only reapply her lipstick using the rearview mirror before getting off the car.

As a place whose duty was to serve the people, the government building was a simple establishment. A pantry or complimentary afternoon tea was too much of a luxury for them, but at the very least, they still had a water dispenser in the office.

While Genevieve was dispensing hot water to brew some tea, random thoughts began to flash in her mind.

Regardless, I'm an heiress from a prominent family. Why exactly do I have to work at a place like this? Could it be that Coop expects me to build some connections here?

For some reason, Genevieve felt so worn out after working for a short while.

She felt like she could not muster any energy to do anything.

Verily, an editor returned to the office and began gossiping with her colleagues. "I just came from upstairs, and guess what? I heard that Mr. Faulkner's assistant will be redeployed to Feston."

"Ms. Briggs is going to be redeployed to Feston? Wouldn't the position of the assistant be left empty then?"

"Exactly," the editor remarked. "Mr. Faulkner has asked her to transfer someone from our team to take over her work."

The female editors in the office perked up as soon as they heard that news.

Even though they had never paid close attention to entertainment-related news, they knew Armand was an impressive figure who established Central Group at a young age.

He was still as capable now that he was in politics.

That was not all. This group of ladies was also aware of Armand's relationship with the Zane family. The reason he transferred between departments was to earn enough political achievements so that he could take over Robert's position in the time to come.

In other words, anyone who could become Armand's assistant would definitely be able to soar to greater heights in the future.

Joy was sparkling in the eyes of an editor as she commented, "I heard that Mr. Faulkner didn't remarry after his divorce several years ago. He doesn't have plans for an arranged marriage with the Loake family either. He's been staying single all this while."

As the group seldom watched the news, coupled with the fact that Harry had thoroughly cleared every possible trace related to Genevieve in the articles, barely anyone knew about Genevieve and Armand's marriage.

It was an indisputable fact that many had chosen to join a government institution for its career stability and good welfare benefits, and those ladies were no exception. Now that there was such a good opportunity for career advancement, they were all eager to get hold of it.

Those female editors continued in a heated discussion regarding who Armand would promote.

"We're seniors who've proven our capabilities after slogging our guts out in the Department of Public Information for years. Every one of us seems to be qualified to get promoted, but I don't think Genevieve is.' Meanwhile, Genevieve was so exhausted she could not wait for noon to approach so that she could find a place to take a nap.

When she heard the group mention her name, she was rendered speechless.

I didn't even participate in the discussion. Neither do I look like I'm interested at all. Why get me involved?

Chapter 998

The one who raised that point was a female editor called Cassandra Hudson.

Cassandra was around Genevieve's age but was not as pretty as the latter. Moreover, she had also put in a lot of hard work before landing a spot in the government institution.

Unexpectedly, Genevieve also began work at the Department of Public Information not too long ago. Not only was she beautiful, but she was also highly competent.

Truthfully, Cassandra was unwilling to believe that Genevieve had joined without using underhand means.

Propping herself up with one hand resting on her colleague's desk, Cassandra looked at Genevieve and uttered with a smile, "Genevieve has only been here for less than a month, so she's still lacking in experience. Furthermore, she's so smart and capable; how can our department do without her? If she leaves, there won't be anyone to help us deal with those emails."

Genevieve scoffed and furrowed her brows. "Then how did you guys deal with those emails when I wasn't here yet? Have you all been ignoring them?"

Cassandra was lost for words briefly before she retorted, "The machines can't translate news as well as you."

"Times are progressing, and so is technology," Genevieve placidly stated. "These days, translation software and simultaneous interpretation headsets have a better grasp of jargon than we do. I do hope the government will introduce these new technologies so that we can focus our attention on other work."

With that said, she stood up and walked away as she felt a dull pain in her lower abdomen.

Cassandra's expression darkened.

As soon as Genevieve arrived at the restroom entryway, she sensed a warm flow in her lower body. Concurrently, she could also smell a faint metallic scent of blood.

No wonder I'm feeling so weak. Turns out my period's here.

Since she had only wanted to use the restroom, she had not brought her phone along. Yet now, her skirt and panties were heavily soiled.

As much as her skirt was black, thus making the stain less conspicuous, the stench of blood was rather prominent.

Just then, Genevieve heard the sound of the restroom door being pushed open. She hastily poked her head out of the cubicle, only to see an old lady clad in a janitor's uniform and holding a shopping bag in her hand.

"Excuse me, madam. I'm from the Department of Public Information. Can I trouble you to—"

"You're Genevieve Rachford, right?" the cleaner asked.

"Yeah."

"I was cleaning upstairs just now, and Mr. Faulkner asked me to bring this to you." The cleaner passed Genevieve the shopping bag. Then, since she had probably figured out that the latter was on her period, she added, "See if you need anything else. I can bring it for you."

Opening the shopping bag, Genevieve saw a completely new black skirt. Other than that, there was also a pair of panties and two packs of sanitary pads.

Genevieve's face turned crimson red. "Nothing. There's everything inside."

Upon hearing that, the cleaner lifted the corners of her lips into a meaningful smile. "Mr. Faulkner is your boyfriend, right? He treats you so well and even remembers when's your period." Many men can't even stand the smell of blood, let alone remember their girlfriend's period!

The cleaner, unlike other gossipmongers, merely lamented and left after handing the items over. Subsequently, Genevieve, with her face still flushed, changed into the fresh clothes in that small cubicle. How does he know that he has to buy day-use pads? And he even bought the brand I love?

When Genevieve pulled the skirt out from the bag, she was left baffled. The size is just right. How does he know what size I'm wearing? Surely it can't be Coop again?

After getting changed, she returned to the office and found a lunchbox and a thermos flask on her desk.

As it was lunchtime, there was barely anyone in the office. Only two colleagues passed by her while chatting away, but their expressions remained like usual.

Armand probably wasn't the one who sent the lunchbox over.

Genevieve sat at her desk and opened the lunchbox to tantalizing baked pork chops. The pork chops had some gravy doused over them, and it was appetizing just by the looks of it.

She cut a piece and delivered it toward her mouth. As expected, it was so delicious she could not help but jiggle her shoulders joyfully.

This is some absolutely scrumptious baked pork chops!

Genevieve took out her phone from the drawer, only to find that Armand had sent her several WhatsApp messages about half an hour ago:

You're having your period today. Avoid cold drinks.

Did you stain your skirt? I got someone to buy a new piece and send it to the toilet.

There's masala chai in the thermos flask. Finish it.

Even though they were minute details, Genevieve realized Armand could take good care of others. Deep down, she enjoyed the warmth he was showering her.

Chapter 999

Genevieve opened the thermos flask, and her brows wrinkled at the spicy aroma.

She replaced the lid and picked up her phone to text: The baked pork chops are delicious, but I can't have any of the masala chai as it's too spicy.

When she was almost done with the pork chops, Armand replied: Masala chai is good for you as it helps with circulation. I'll make you some meatballs for dinner, all right?

Since he offered a compromise, Genevieve accepted it gracefully and texted back: All right then.

After waiting for the masala chai to cool, Genevieve closed her eyes and chugged it down. She felt the sweetness and spiciness swirling endlessly in her mouth after she finished her cup and found it excruciating.

Masala chai is one of mankind's most heinous inventions.

Less than half of the masala chai remained in the thermos flask by the time she got off work that night. Genevieve could not bear another drop, so she secretly ran to the restroom to pour the rest away. Armand sent a text to Genevieve to inform her that he was waiting at the spot he dropped her off that morning.

Upon entering the car, Genevieve placed the bag containing the lunchbox and the thermos flask into the compartment next to the armrest. Armand glanced at it before starting the vehicle. "Did you finish the masala chai?"

"Of course I finished it." Genevieve's lips twisted in displeasure as she continued, "I won't be having any more tomorrow, though. That drink was designed to torture humans. I still have the taste of ginger in my mouth."

Though Armand guessed from her words that she had not, in fact, finished the masala chai, he merely smiled without exposing her.

Armand brought Genevieve to the grocer first. He pushed the cart and walked in her wake as she helped herself to a variety of ingredients she intended on having him cook for her. After buying their things and taking the elevator down to the underground parking lot, Armand suddenly approached Genevieve and held the back of her head as he kissed her. Genevieve tasted the toffee he slipped her and found it pleasantly sweet.

Armand brushed her cheek. "Do you still have the taste of ginger in your mouth?" he asked with a smile.

He is such a flirt!

Genevieve's cheeks burned. She shoved him away upon regaining her composure. "Lewd behavior like that will get you arrested," she mumbled, her mouth sticky with toffee. Armand chuckled softly.

When the elevator doors opened, he grabbed the groceries with one hand, held Genevieve's in his other, and walked out.

Upon arriving back at Regality Gardens, Armand first took out the groceries from the shopping bags and placed them into the fridge after sorting them out. "Genev," he called Genevieve, who was in the living room, "come help me tie my apron."

"Don't you have hands of your own?" She was reluctant to go to him.

"Do you want meatballs or not?"

Genevieve was on the couch browsing her phone. After struggling for several seconds, she went barefoot to the kitchen counter and took the apron from the man's hands.

She waited for him to bend over and put on the apron for him.

The hem of his shirt was tucked into his trousers, which framed his lithe waist. In addition to his stern appearance, he looked abstinent and cold.

Genevieve was tying the strings at Armand's back when a mischievous idea struck her.

She pulled his shirt out from his pants and tickled him forcefully at the waist, wanting to watch him squirm.

Armand did not move. Instead, he turned around to look at her. "Are you that impatient to get in my bed, Genev?"

"Who's getting in your bed?" Genevieve retracted her hand, puzzled at how he did not feel ticklish despite the vigorous assault she subjected him to. Armand leaned over close to her. "I want you to."

Genevieve understood what he implied. She blocked his approaching forehead with two fingers and pushed him away before sticking her tongue out at him. "Keep. On. Dreaming!"

Armand chuckled at her childish behavior.

He was worried before that the psychologist's method would fail and that she would forget everything between them.

It seems now I have been worrying for nothing. Just like before, she is still fond of relying on me and only shows her adorable side to me.

Chapter 1000

Armand handed a plate of rinsed blueberries to Genevieve and smacked her buttocks to send her out to the living room to amuse herself.

Genevieve clutched her butt and glared at him. "Brute!"

"What did you say?" Armand narrowed his eyes and leaned over as if to kiss her.

Genevieve grabbed her blueberries and ran.

After an arduous preparatory stage, Armand made over a hundred meatballs. He cooked some, placed the rest into a container, and stored them in the freezer.

If Genevieve gets hungry in my absence, Rosa can just take some out to cook.

Though meatballs of this style were small and had little meat, the outer layer would become delightfully crisp once cooked. The stock was made of chicken broth Armand had prepared the night before, which made the meatballs taste exceptionally sweet and delicious.

Possibly due to an increased appetite caused by her period, Genevieve only felt full after consuming two whole bowls of meatballs and a butter biscuit.

Genevieve stroked her bloated belly guiltily after her meal. "Butter biscuits are fattening. I shouldn't have eaten that."

Armand laughed. "What's done is done. I'll exercise with you once your period passes."

Unable to stop himself, he touched Genevieve's belly. Her skin was soft and delicate, and her waist was slim as always. He could grab it with one hand. Armand's gaze darkened as his throat turned dry.

Genevieve smacked his hand aside and hurriedly pulled her shirt down. "Did you purposely improve your culinary skills to seduce me, Mr. Faulkner? I remember you told me you liked me long ago and even found a substitute to kill time."

"That's right." Armand tore open a bottle of yogurt for her to ease her digestion. "I know you love food, so I practiced my culinary skills hard. Cooking is not the only thing I'm good at..."

Genevieve accepted the bottle of yogurt. Her cheeks flushed a bright red when she heard the latter part of his speech. "Hold it!"

Armand rumbled in laughter as he draped his arm across the back of the couch. "I was going to say that aside from cooking, I'm good at giving massages. I can also fly a helicopter, ride a horse, and golf. I can keep you company if you want to try any of those activities."

"Were you thinking about something else?" he went on with raised eyebrows. "What were you thinking of?"

This scoundrel is toying with me!

Genevieve was so angry that she choked. "I was thinking about nothing!" she said coldly with a steely expression.

Armand noticed that she took a big gulp and that some of the yogurt flowed from the corner of her lips. She lapped it up innocently, though it appeared otherwise from his perspective.

Armand wanted nothing more than to press her against the couch, kiss her passionately, and leave his mark on her body.

He took a deep breath and suppressed the animalistic urge before leaning closer to Genevieve. "You don't have to call me Mr. Faulkner when we're alone. It feels too formal." "Are we very close?" Genevieve raised her eyebrow at him.

"I am your boyfriend," Armand emphasized.

Genevieve was just about to say something, but his words had her forcing it back. She stared at his face for a couple of seconds before a glint of mischief flashed across her eyes. "I'll call you Sir, then. How is that?"

Armand froze for a moment before chuckling as if in a splendid mood.

Genevieve was puzzled by his laughter. "Do you think you're a young twenty-seven-year-old? You're already past thirty! It's unconscionable to even think of you as an older brother."

Armand held her cheeks and lowered his head to kiss her.

Genevieve glared at him fiercely after he pulled away. "Are you a kissing addict, you scoundrel? Why do you keep kissing me? Do you think I have no self-worth?"

Armand touched the corner of her lips with a finger. "I've had too much to eat. I need help digesting."

Genevieve was rendered speechless.

Have some yogurt if you're having indigestion. Would my mouth help with your digestion by you kissing me?