Chapter 43

A chill flickered in Charles's gaze as he glanced at Ronald, who promptly stood up straighter and let out a nervous laugh. "Where to now, Mr. Hoffman?"

"To the Phoenix Tree Residence!" Charles gently settled Noelle into the car as if she were a delicate treasure. Ronald could not help but stare until a piercing look from Charles snapped him back to reality, and he hurriedly got the car going. The sleek black Maybach vanished into the cloak of the night.

The drug coursing through Noelle seemed too potent. She feverishly tugged at her clothes and whimpered softly, even though Charles had covered her with his suit jacket.

Even Ronald, who was usually oblivious, could tell something was off with Noelle. However, he resolutely focused on the road ahead and did not dare sneak a peek at her. Angering Mr. Hoffman was the last thing he wanted.

Noelle was in agony, her body burning up. She clutched at Charles's hand, pressing herself against him, and her lips found his in a clumsy, desperate