He remained silent, his gaze cold and penetrating."I don't know your plans. I don't know your future. I didn't even know you studied computer science. I'm just a pawn that's kept in the dark and moving wherever you want me to go."Grace finally broke down. All the pent-up grievances she felt from these past few days poured out. Her tears seemed to burn his palm and made him frown."On the surface, it seems like you love me, but I feel like a puppet on strings. This isn't fair at all, Xander."Xander felt his anger subside at last. He let her go completely, took a tissue from the table, and wiped her tears. "Alright, don't cry."She gasped for breath. Her posture and the way her dress rode up caused her to reveal more than she intended to. From Xander's perspective, this seemed to ignite his desire.Suppressing his lustful feelings, he helped her sit properly and patiently continuing to wipe her tears."What do you want me to say? You once loved Benjamin, and now you insist on g

Grace was invited because she was a victim of the recent scandal in Pamore. The higher-ups were concerned. With the Hawkins Group already fallen, Amirate, as a major taxpayer, couldn't afford any issues. They had extended this invitation to appease herThe banquet had three tables, each separated by screens but with some space left in between. Tanya gave a speech, and only then did the banquet officially begin.The guests were all prominent figures, many of whom recognized Xander. Seeing him there was a surprise.Someone cautiously asked, "I was just watching the Futurelink ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning. I didn't expect to see Mr. Fulton here tonight. What a coincidence. So, what brings you here this evening?"Everyone knew that Tanya was here to offer her consolation, but why would Xander be here?Xander casually held his wine glass. "I ran into Mrs. Jarvis and came in to grab a meal."He seemed indifferent, but it was clear to the astute observers that he was specificall

To Xander, her words sounded like a veiled criticism of the complicated relationships in the Fulton family, hinting at her weariness and reluctance to deal with it.His expression darkened and his grip turned fierce as he pulled her into his arms. "And then? Go ask Dexter this. If you get into trouble today, would he sacrifice his future to protect you? Even if he's willing, can he protect you?"Grace felt both ashamed and furious. "I've told you, I can handle things on my own. If not for you, I wouldn't even be in this mess!""Do you regret it?" Xander bent down, his breath warm against her neck. "Even without these past two years between us, the previous decades can't be erased just because you say so."In the small space, their breaths mingled. Grace felt her body heat up as she listened to their intertwined breathing. He was like an immovable mountain, impossible to push away."If you want to break up with me, first sort out these accounts."As she listened to him, Grace felt

Xander had also noticed and turned to look at her.He didn't say anything, but Grace felt his inquisitive gaze. She shook her head and extended her hand first. "Mr. Hamilton, hello."Seeing her take the initiative, Xander didn't linger. He headed toward the exit with a decisive stride.Dexter shook her hand. "Ms. Grace, or should I call you Ms. Lewis? Your name has been quite prominent lately."He was acting very businesslike. Grace cast a meaningful glance at Orson standing beside him. "Is that so? I'm honored to be recognized by Mr. Hamilton."Orson quickly avoided her gaze, looking flustered. Tanya didn't notice and quickly interrupted, "You silly boy. You're here to meet a lady, not to discuss work. Come in and sit down."There weren't that many formalities. Clearly, Tanya favored Dexter over Xander.Grace had only heard of Dexter by reputation. He was said to be a rising star, known for his integrity and influence in the political arena. Now, meeting him in person, he app

Xander's expression seemed to resemble still water. He didn't answer her but opened the car door. "Get in."Grace had been sent by staff and didn't have her car. She couldn't argue with him with so many people around and got in silently.The driver raised the partition, cutting off all sound."What did he want?" Xander frowned.Grace's vision was blurry, and she was still angry. "Nothing.""The way he looked at you wasn't right. Do you want me to investigate, or will you tell me yourself?"He had noticed it early on but had refrained from acting out in front of others.Grace knew well that he never failed to uncover anything. She leaned back in the seat. "Dexter thinks highly of me and had his secretary chase me to arrange our next meeting."As soon as she finished speaking, her arm was yanked painfully. He pulled her onto his lap, forcing her legs apart.Xander made her look at him. "Liar.""Does Mr. Fulton trust me to go on a blind date with another man, or do you not belie