Chapter 484

Christian's sudden move caught Noelle off guard, and she nearly collided with his chest. She quickly stepped back, her hands gripping the kitchen counter for support.

The memory of that quick kiss in the hospital hallway flashed through her mind, and she felt a warm flush rise to her cheeks.

"Selling pigs now, are we? Talking about claiming? Get lost!" Noelle snapped, her face stern as she lifted her foot to kick Christian's shin.

Taking advantage of his momentary pain, she quickly made her escape.

Christian watched her retreating figure, clearly flustered by his teasing. His lips curled into a smirk, but in the next instant, he started after her.

As Noelle hurried up the stairs, she suddenly tripped and fell, landing in an undignified heap.

Christian heard the loud thud and saw her sprawled out on the stairs, which sent a jolt of fear through him. He rushed over to her in just a few steps.

"Where did you hurt yourself? Does it hurt anywhere, hmm?" he asked, his voice filled wit