In Love, Never Say Never

Obstinately, Ashton remained standing where he was. He cast a backward glance to see Joseph hurrying in with a stack of gifts.

“Scarlett prepared these small tokens for Mom and Dad,” Ashton explained evenly.

Baffled, I looked at Ashton. When had all these been prepared? Had Ashton already predicted that I’d leave John behind to attend the dinner with him?

My mind was swimming with thoughts.

Tiffany tossed her head uncaringly. Joseph, laden down by the weight of the gifts in his arms, tottered awkwardly into the room.

Just then, a deep voice commanded regally, “There’s no need to make such a fuss. We’re family, after all. Housekeeper, take those things from him.”

As if on cue, the housekeeper nervously stepped forward, stiffly receiving the items from Joseph. The atmosphere within the room instantly eased.

It was Nathaniel who had spoken. I’d only heard his voice before and had only taken the briefest of glances at his photo. I was surprised to see that he was casually attired and looked rather youthful. Nathaniel appeared distinctly approachable, unlike the elderly patriarch I’d envisioned in my mind.

there was more below the surface

watched the housekeeper set the items down conscientiously, Ashton suddenly turned and leisurely placed his arm around my shoulder.

sat down when Tiffany began her

office. Let’s take this opportunity today to thrash things out. You’ve removed me from my position as the Finance Director and terminated my subordinates.

of hot tea for us. Ashton calmly poured out a cup, then handed it to me.

anger. She seethed as she watched Ashton deliberately stir his tea, then drink it

at Tiffany.

if the air in the room had congealed, and the temperature dropped by a

look on Tiffany’s face remained. She seemed snooty, even emboldened by the fact that she was on her turf and under the Hall

heed to Ashton’s solemn warning. Instead, she drew herself up and pounced onto me, clawing at my arm. “It’s all because of you! How dare you pretend to be Scarlett and seduce my brother?

Tiffany, he glared at her with such hatred

time witnessing this side of Ashton. She gaped at him, cowering

arm suddenly shot out and grabbed Tiffany’s neck in

frightened even Joseph, who was used by now