17

"I can still manage my fucking time, Arabella."

Upon hearing those words and letting them take effect, Arabella stopped. She simply froze, right in the middle of the hall. She thought about it, and almost wanted to laugh.

Turning to Damon again, she began to speak her first thought, without filters: "You are here because you saw the perfect opportunity to bring a model. do not act like your effort is for me, because despite having the chance to be with me, you still prefer them."

Damon took a step toward Arabella to ensure more privacy. In their current position, his lips were only inches away from her ear. The proximity sparked electricity, but they were too exposed to release the energy.

Arabella felt her body react internally, but the only expression she had was a soft sigh.

"You have no idea of the effort I would make for you," he whispered.

"You do not need to make an effort, Mr. Banks. Your intentions are clear," she retorted.

"Are they really? Because you still seem irritated