Chapter 42

Toby counted down, "Three, two..."

Mercer quickly removed his suit jacket and draped it over Calla's head. After pulling her into his embrace, he held her tightly against his chest.

His actions were so swift and smooth.

Calla opened her eyes to find darkness enveloping her, but she was tightly held in his embrace. Her forehead rested against his chin, and she caught a whiff of his distinct scent.

The air was filled with cheers and screams. Calla didn't need to think twice to know how many women were now envious of her.

But unlike before, she now wasn't afraid of their envy and jealousy. Instead, she basked in the admiration shining in their eyes.

He stood tall like a sturdy mountain, providing her with a sense of security and affection she had never felt before.

Surprisingly, she found herself not hating him as much as she used to. In fact, she even found herself eager to catch a whiff of his scent.

"Pour it!" Toby's command rang out, and a bucket of ice-cold water was tipped o