A heavy silence hung in the air, extending so long that Nadia started to wonder if Howard might depart without uttering a word. Eventually, he shattered the quiet with an unexpected statement."It's true, she's not my girlfriend," he declared. "However, I am her doctor, and it's my duty to safeguard her health."His explanation held a hint of nobility, and Jeff chose to accept it, finding some comfort in Howard's concern for Nadia.Sensing Howard's genuine worry for Nadia's well-being, Jeff swiftly apologized, hoping to make amends."Howard, my bad. I messed up and left Nadia here alone in the rain. I promise I won't make the same mistake again."Howard regarded him coldly. "Are you sure?"Jeff nodded vigorously. "I swear I won't let this happen again."With an unflinching demeanor, Howard calmly opened the passenger door for Nadia and ushered her into his car.As Jeff watched the car drive away, an overwhelming sense of helplessness washed over him.Every time they ventured o
The next day, Lana attended the Watson Club's gathering as planned.When Chris heard she was going, he volunteered to pick her up.Lana didn't refuse, considering the remote venue. After getting ready, she joined Chris."Wow, Ms. Clark, you look stunning today," Chris exclaimed, his tone filled with admiration. He even whistled in awe.Lana was dressed in a vibrant crimson Bohemian-style maxi dress, adorned with feathers of the same hue along the hem.The square neckline complemented her flawless skin, making her look incredibly unique and eye-catching.With minimal makeup and her long hair flowing naturally, the only adornment on her face was a red spider lily placed between her brows.Despite her subtle appearance, she radiated a fiery aura that was captivating.Playfully, Lana knocked on Chris' head and teased, "Feeling quite daring today, aren't you? Flirting with someone like me, the esteemed Ms. Clark?"Chris quickly raised his hands in defense, saying, "No, no, I was ju
Sensing Emilia's gaze, Lana offered a subtle nod in her direction.In response, Emilia beamed with a captivating smile.She gracefully dismounted her horse and made her way toward Lana, saying, "Hey, Lana. If I recall correctly, this is your first time at an event I'm personally hosting."Lana nodded in agreement. "You're right!"In the past, Lana had skipped similar events, which had led Emilia to wonder if Lana was intentionally avoiding Rosa.Emilia continued, "I hope you have an amazing time today."Lana appreciated the warm welcome and replied, "Thank you."Emilia had always maintained a somewhat distant demeanor, making this personal greeting all the more meaningful.After exchanging pleasantries, Emilia had their racehorses brought over.Most of the young ladies and gentlemen in attendance had already changed into their riding attire, but Lana was still wearing her beautiful dress.She had no idea that horseback riding was part of the day's agenda.It was evident that
Chris gently took the reins from Lana's hand, wiped the sweat off his forehead, and praised Lana, saying, "Ms. Clark, how can you be so excellent? I'm truly in awe of you!"Lana casually brushed aside his raised thumbs and remarked, "Enough with the flattery. I'm thirsty, go get me some water.""Sure thing!"The onlookers were genuinely surprised to observe Chris tending to Lana so diligently.Even Carol, who had previously been the object of his affection, had never received such special treatment.Speculations began to swirl among the people present, as they couldn't help but wonder what Lana had done to provoke such a change in Chris.Since Lana and Chris weren't involved in a romantic relationship, his sudden transformation left them puzzled.At that moment, Rebecca also approached Lana, her eyes sparkling with eagerness as she looked at her. "Lana, I ... I would like to be friends with you if that's okay."Befriending someone as outstanding as Lana would undoubtedly enhanc
Amidst the delighted cheers of the crowd, Emilia continued to fire ten consecutive arrows, each one striking the bullseye with pinpoint precision."Wow, she's hitting the mark from a hundred feet away with every single shot!""The national team's reputation is certainly well-earned.""Emilia is incredible. I can't help but wonder how her former national team colleagues even had a chance against her."The praise from the onlookers only heightened Emilia's standing.Emilia set down her bow and arrows, humbly remarking, "Please, let's not say that. If my former teammates were to hear, they might be a bit offended.""Emilia, seriously, stop downplaying your talents. I mean, if your amazing skills aren't deserving of praise, then what is, right?""Emilia, I'm getting a sense of what sets us apart. It's not just our backgrounds and social status. It's your perfect aim with every shot."As compliments flowed, Emilia blushed, her beauty undiminished."Ms. Clark, you seem a bit down,"
For the average person, capturing Emilia's attention would be a reason for celebration and gratitude.However, Lana was anything but average. Upon receiving Emilia's invitation, Lana promptly declined without a second thought."Sorry, I'm not interested in collaborating with anyone right now," Lana replied.To Lana, it seemed like a jest. She had never entertained the idea of teaming up with other people. Her confidence rested in her ability to achieve success independently. Besides, Lana remained wary of trusting families like the Watsons, given their significant influence and power. She firmly believed that success required hard work and wasn't handed out easily.Yet, under Emilia's influence, Lana found herself saying, "It's not that I'm turning you down or anything. It's just that the whole business scene isn't my cup of tea. I'm more into living a free and independent lifestyle."With Lana expressing her thoughts in this manner, Emilia couldn't force her into cooperation, e
Lana stepped out of the car and took the elevator back upstairs.As the elevator doors opened, Liam's familiar figure immediately caught her eye.Why would Liam be here at this time?Weren't they on bad terms?"Morning, Liam," she greeted."Ease up on the sarcasm, would you?" Liam retorted.Lana remained fixed in place. "It's getting late. Why are you lingering at my doorstep? I hope there are no hidden agendas on your part."Liam snorted. "If I had any ulterior motives against you, would I wait until now to act?"Fueled by their recent argument, Lana's anger persisted. "Speak up, what do you want?"Without hesitation, Liam seized her hand and directed her into the elevator. "Come home with me."Taken aback, Lana forcefully pulled away. "Why? Why should I go home with you? Don't you realize we're in a standoff?"In truth, if Liam had asked politely, Lana would likely have agreed to accompany him back to the Garrison Villa. However, following his sudden and unexplained depart
After successfully resolving the alpaca incident, Hector joyfully extended an invitation to Lana to join him for a late-night meal. He then promptly had his servants prepare a midnight snack.Feeling a bit hungry from the recent escapade, Lana gladly accepted Hector's offer.Within a brief ten-minute stroll around the Garrison Villa, Lana was summoned to the dining room for the promised midnight snack.Upon entering the Garrisons' dining room, Lana discovered an extravagant spread of delicacies laid out on a 30-foot-long table.Lana was taken aback.Wasn't this supposed to be a simple midnight snack? It looked more like a lavish feast.Hector, however, appeared unfazed. He was seated at the table and beckoned Lana over with a cheerful demeanor."Why are you still standing there, Lana? Come over!" he exclaimed.Feeling a bit overwhelmed, Lana was escorted to her seat by Liam.Hector then swiftly served Lana a bowl of bouillabaisse.Unlike the ordinary version, this Garrison