Chapter 21: Family Secrets RevealedWith a sense of urgency, George dialed the number, his fingers impatiently tapping the screen of his phone. He knew he was stepping into dangerous territory, but his need for information outweighed concerns of privacy or morality.The call connected, and a familiar voice greeted him. "Hello?""Anne, it's George," he said, his voice low and urgent.There was a pause on the line before Anne responded, her tone cautious. "George, what's wrong? Why are you calling me?"George took a deep breath, preparing to ask the question he needed an answer to. "I need to know Sebastian's schedule. It's important."Anne's voice carried a hint of hesitation as she replied, "George, I can't just disclose that information. It's confidential.""Please, Anne," George pleaded, desperation evident in his tone. "I need to know. It concerns my family."Caught between her loyalty to Sebastian and her desire to help George, Anne sighed on the other end of the line, torn.Final

Sebastian couldn't understand why the sudden idea popped into his head that having Charlotte move in with him might help him determine if his mental illness was completely cured.For the first time, he realized he was being somewhat reckless. After all, he didn't know Charlotte well and wasn't sure if her father sent her to spy on him. Moreover, Charlotte was indeed his nephew's former fiancée, and his brother's family wasn't as simple as it seemed. Though the conglomerate was under his management now, he knew his brother's family wanted his son, George, to enter the company."I'm not interested in your identity; I'm only concerned about your current status," Sebastian said."I need to consider it," Charlotte replied. She was eager to regain her mother's art gallery quickly. She also knew her father was still hoping for an alliance with the Goliath Group, and her stepmother and stepsister were also eyeing it. But when it came to her marriage, even if it was contractual, she needed to

The following day, Charlotte woke up to find herself fully dressed. Still drowsy, she rubbed her eyes and tried to recall the events of the previous night.She remembered drinking a lot, but the details were completely hazy. Sitting in bed, she glanced around and noticed a white shirt folded neatly beside her. It looked distinctly like a man's shirt.Feeling a bit hesitant, she finally decided to put on the shirt. It barely covered her thighs, making her feel both exposed and strangely comfortable. With her mind still foggy from sleep, she stepped out of the room, trying to piece together what had happened the night before.As she entered the living room, all activity abruptly stopped. Every eye turned to her, and she instantly felt the weight of their stares. Scanning the room, she realized a meeting was in progress. The attendees were essential figures in the company and gathered to discuss a crucial project with Sebastian.Charlotte's sudden appearance caused a moment of stunned si

**Chapter 27**"My dear secretary, are you looking at me like you want to eat me up?" Sebastian teased."If I could, I wouldn't mind you eating me up," Charlotte retorted with a grin."No, no, I was just saying you have quite an impressive physique," Charlotte said, embarrassed."If you want, this body could be yours for the next three years," Sebastian said, pointing to himself.Charlotte finally realized he was referring to the marriage proposal."Um, about that…" Charlotte sighed, "Your proposal puts me in a difficult position."Sebastian stepped forward, taking her hand, "I understand your concerns. But I want you to know, no matter what decision you make, I will support you."Charlotte looked at him gratefully, "Thank you, Sebastian. I've been thinking about it these past few days, and I feel…"She paused, choosing her words carefully, "I need more time to get to know you and understand our relationship. I don't want to make a decision on a whim."Sebastian nodded, "I respect your

Hearing Charlotte's words, Sebastian's gaze softened slightly, but his resolve remained unshaken. He leaned in closer, his warm breath brushing against her ear. "Charlotte, the contract is just a formality. What matters is what we have now."Charlotte stared at him; her heart filled with conflicting emotions. She felt a mix of desire and apprehension. This wasn't just a business agreement; it was about their complicated past and turbulent feelings. "Sebastian, I need to think it over carefully," she said, gently pushing him away. "I can't make a hasty decision, especially with George so close."Sebastian sighed, reluctantly letting her go. "Alright, Charlotte. But remember, I won't give up on us." He stood up, straightening his dishevelled clothes. "I'll give you some space to think, but don't take too long."As Sebastian approached the door, Charlotte watched him, feeling relief and longing. Once he was gone, she took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She needed to clea