Chapter 82

ROBERT'S POV

I was trying to extricate myself from Odette's grasp, but she was persistent. Her arms were wrapped around my neck, and she was gazing up at me with an unsettling intensity. I had my hand on her waist, trying to gently push her away, but she was refusing to take the hint.

Just as I was about to firmly remove her arms, I saw Ariana standing in the doorway, her eyes fixed on us with a mixture of shock and hurt. I knew I had to act fast. I roughly pushed Odetteaway, trying to convey that I was not interested in her advances.

"Ariana, wait!" I called out, but she was already turning to leave. I quickly followed her, trying to explain, but she was having none of it. She got into her car and sped off, leaving me feeling frustrated and angry.

I angrily went back to the hallway and confronted Odette, my expression stern. "What do you think you're doing? I'm not interested in you, and even if I was, this is not the time or place."

Odette smirked, unfazed. "Oh, come on, Rob. Don't