Sophie's unease was evident as she absorbed Charlie's patronizing remarks. She wrestled with her frustration internally, suppressing the urge to walk out. She now understood why Linda had repeatedly warned her that Charlie was difficult to deal with. Talking to him was like shooting yourself in the foot.Upon seeing her seated quietly, Charlie's expression hinted at amusement. "It seems Ms. Luxford's business capabilities are somewhat better than the other managers who have dealt with me.""I'm honored to hear Mr. Nielson’s praise.""There’s no need for such formalities unless you want to risk breaking your heart, which would be an inconvenience to our janitorial staff."Sophie clenched her fists under the table, maintaining a polite smile despite her growing irritation. If she could endure Cedric’s antics, she could certainly handle Charlie."Would Ms. Luxford care for a cup of coffee? My treat." Before she could respond, Charlie signaled to the waiter. "Two cups of Blue Mountain
Amidst the rise of new talent, numerous artists grappled with reclaiming their past glory. Yet, Charlie's comeback appeared almost divinely blessed.A decade ago, he had soared to fame, and his recent return propelled him to even greater heights. Once a well-mannered music prodigy, he now stood as a rebellious and formidable superstar.The ten years of his absence served as a veil over his past, intriguing Sophie with its mysteries. A subtle change flickered in Charlie's eyes as he smiled. "I'm none of those. I am what I am because I can afford to be!"Sophie watched his departing figure, her frown deepening. She recognized that he had the charisma and audacity to be haughty. To be rebellious was one thing, but to remain likable and even adored while doing so was quite another.Despite her frustration, a determined smile crossed her face. Charlie's demeanor only fueled her resolve to secure his signature."Mrs. Carlson…" The waiter was dumbstruck. Of all people to embarrass, it
Sophie's brows could not help but furrow. 'What is he up to again?'Anyone could see she clearly looked unwelcoming, but Cedric seemed oblivious, and his sexy lips parted as he asked, "Would you like to have dinner together?""Sorry, I'm not hungry," Sophie replied without hesitation.Her straightforward rejection was exactly as he expected. He smiled faintly and strode toward the nearby couch.Sophie watched as he elegantly yet not domineeringly occupied one side of her couch, and her frown tightened. "Mr. Carlson, this is my office. You won't find food here.""I know, that's why I ordered takeout." Cedric grinned with an eyebrow raised, letting off a seductive curve through his eyes.'Takeout? Cedric Carlson ordered takeout?' Sophie was astonished for a split second.He was particularly picky about food, never touching anything too cold, fishy, or spicy, let alone food that took dozens of minutes to arrive after being cooked. He probably would not even spare it a glance."Sui
Sophie's expression changed again. Among all Jalpurian cuisine, her favorite had always been salmon sushi, especially from this particular restaurant. But how could Cedric, who did not even know if she liked roses or not, know these things?"If you're too busy with work, I don't mind feeding you." Seeing her hesitation, Cedric gestured to get up.Sophie cleared her throat awkwardly before reluctantly rising from her seat. She knew if she didn't join Cedric, he'd insist on feeding her, one bite at a time, until she was stuffed.Taking a seat on the vacant spot on the couch, she examined the intricate stripes on the sashimi. Despite not feeling particularly hungry moments before, her stomach now yearned for it. Before she knew it, there was already an extra piece of fresh, tender salmon on the seasoning dish before her."I said I would gradually get to know you." Cedric's tempting voice sounded.He would gradually come to understand Sophie's preferences, her likes and dislikes, her
After the meal, the sky outside gradually darkened. Inside the dimly lit room, the lingering scent of Jalpurian cuisine mingled with the tense atmosphere, creating an ambiguous allure.The chefs respectfully cleared the tableware and departed, leaving the office quiet once more—so silent that Sophie and Cedric could hear each other's breathing.Sophie pursed her lips, feeling a hint of embarrassment from the lingering taste of salmon. She realized she had momentarily yielded to Cedric's influence, quickly suppressing the faint smile tugging at her lips, yet unable to calm her racing heart.'Sophie Luxford, have you never eaten Jalpurian food before? Why did you succumb to him so easily over just one meal?'Annoyed, she gritted her teeth. She knew her frustration wasn't solely about the meal—it stemmed from the realization that the once arrogantly domineering man she loved was now making an effort to understand her.Deep down, she acknowledged that without Cedric, she had been livi
The pair exited the company, Sophie opting not to join Cedric in his car. Instead, she swiftly opened her own door, ignited the engine, and sped away as if pursued by hungry wolves.Cedric smiled gently. Five years ago, he might have tried to persuade her otherwise, but not now.He lowered himself into his Bentley, started the engine, and trailed her at a distance toward the Bohemian Apartment.It took him too long to grasp a simple truth: he didn't need to drive Sophie home to ensure her safety.Sophie drove steadily, occasionally glancing at the rearview mirror. Despite seeing Cedric's familiar license plate trailing behind, her annoyance gradually subsided unnoticed.They continued smoothly until reaching the apartment building.Suddenly, Cedric accelerated, overtaking Sophie and stopping ahead.Sophie switched off the engine and exited the car.Cedric stood waiting, his tall figure silhouetted against the night sky. His usually cold demeanor softened upon seeing her. There
The elevator doors opened, and Sophie still had her hand pressed tightly against her chest, her face flushed, but gnashing her teeth. 'I actually fled in front of Cedric!'"Mommy, you're back!" Before she could even knock on the door, it swung open from the inside, and a soft little figure rushed into her arms like a gust of wind.Accustomed to such surprises, Sophie quickly regained her composure, smiling as she reached out to pinch the chubby cheeks. However, Cherry dodged sideways.Cherry's big round eyes blinked mischievously, and she lowered her voice, "Mommy, Papa Austin is here."'Austin?' Hearing Austin's name, she instinctively looked into the room and saw him, dressed in a suit, walking toward them from the window with a smile."I went to the client's farm today and picked some fresh cherries. Since Cherry loves them, I brought them over." He gestured toward the exquisitely arranged basket on the coffee table, filled with enticing cherries.But their existence made Soph
After seeing Austin off, Cherry bounced onto the couch, looking excited as if she had just taken a stimulant. "Mommy, are you really going to sign Charlie?""Do you also like Charlie?" Startled by her daughter's enthusiasm, Sophie took the documents to the study.The little girl jumped off the couch and instantly followed her, her hands clasped against her left cheek, her face full of longing for her idol. "Yes, I really, really like him! Mommy, sign him! I want his autograph."Originally, she was not a fan of idols, but her deskmate kept talking about Charlie's TV dramas, saying he was extremely good. She only watched one episode out of curiosity and found it really addictive.The thought of having the opportunity to seize a moment with her idol made Cherry throw all caution to the wind. She wrapped her arms around Sophie's thigh, exclaiming, "Mommy, you must sign him!"Looking at her daughter's excited expression, Sophie was unsure whether to feel helpless or grateful. It was to