Never Too Far Novel

“I can’t believe it! Is Mr. Manson and Julian Gilmore…”

Queenie was baffled as well. One was the heir of the Manson Group, while the other was a young, award-winning actor, yet the two had never been in any rumors with any women. If these two handsome men got together, it had to be true love, no doubt!

She made up an entire novel’s worth of stories in her head as she fantasized about the possible romance between the two men before a thought suddenly came to her. Considering my relationship with Nigel, I’m sure I can get Julian’s signature!

Queenie couldn’t wait to get off work.

At long last, she survived until her shift was over. She had gotten Nigel’s personal number this morning, so she waited until all her colleagues were gone before calling him up while massaging her calves.

“Hello?” Nigel’s crisp, cool voice rang out.

“It’s me, Queenie. Are you getting off work now, Mr. Manson?” She introduced herself first, as he seemed reluctant when she asked for his number this morning, so she figured he wouldn’t have saved her number.

“I’m giving you five minutes to get to the fountain,” he said before hanging up.

Queenie grabbed her things and ran out. She left the building through one of the side exits and headed to the fountain area. The evening glow made the fountain gleam like diamonds scattered all across. It sparkled in the light, and the mermaid statue in the center looked as if it had a golden veil draping over it.

There was a black SUV stopped on the road beside the fountain. Queenie jogged over and opened the door to the front passenger seat.

Nigel was seemingly deep in thought as he rested his arm on the car door.

Queenie recalled her promise to her mother that she would be going home today, but she loathed the thought of going back!

“Where are we going, Mr. Manson?” she asked with a smile.

“Have dinner with me.”

She nodded. “Sure! You’re buying me dinner now, but I’ll pay you back in the future.”

Nigel glanced at her. “Are you sure you’ll pay me back?”

“Hm? Of course. I made a record of every single meal you bought for me. I’m not going to take advantage of you!” Queenie was someone who knew how to be grateful. She always remembered the kindness of others.

Nigel started the car and drove off. Queenie’s calves were still sore, so she bent down and started massaging them again. Then, she started kneading her shoulders as well. It was clear that she was tired from the day’s work.

Nigel glanced at her once more. It was already pretty commendable for a pampered young lady like her to stand in the lobby all day.

“Have you worked as an assistant before?”

“I’ve worked as my father’s assistant during summer vacation.”

“In that case, from tomorrow onward, you’ll be my personal assistant.” He gave her a promotion; she had jumped from working at the front desk to becoming his personal assistant.

Queenie was stunned by the news at first, but she quickly recovered and exclaimed with glee, “Really? I’m going to be your assistant?!”

“You’ll be on probation for one month. I’ll fire you if I’m not satisfied with your work,” Nigel added coolly. He didn’t want to let this get to her head.

“Sure, I’ll do my best.” She wasn’t about to waste this opportunity. Furthermore, being his assistant meant that she would get to see Julian every so often, which was an additional bonus!

“Mr. Manson, could you do me a favor? I’d like to have a signed photo of Julian Gilmore. I’ll give you the photo, so can you get him to sign it for me?” she asked expectantly.

Nigel side-eyed her and shot back, “Why should I help you?”

“Well… Since we’re acquainted now, couldn’t you just do me this one favor? You and Mr. Gilmore have a close relationship, so… so I’m sure you can help me, right?” Queenie clapped her hands together and pleaded. She was willing to act a little shamelessly for the sake of owning a signed photo of Julian.

Julian was one of the most famous celebrities in the entertainment industry. Numerous young women from wealthy families had fallen head over heels for him, and Queenie couldn’t escape from it either, though she merely admired his talent and was drawn in by his incredible acting.

“Not doing it,” Nigel declined icily.

Queenie pouted at him for a moment before a mischievous glint flickered across her eyes. “Mr. Manson, aren’t you worried I’ll expose your relationship with Mr. Gilmore if you don’t do as I wish?”

Oh, now she’s threatening me? Just what sort of drama has she been watching? With her here, there’s never a day that goes by without anything happening. Just what does she think is going on with Julian and me? “What are you gonna expose to the public?” Nigel wondered what was going on in her head.

Queenie smiled. “I’ve finally cracked the code. Mr. Gilmore has never dated any actresses he’s worked with before, and I finally know why.” She stared at Nigel. “Because he likes you!”

Nigel almost crashed into the car in front of them, but fortunately, he had a quick reflex and slammed down on the brake right away. Though, it still gave Queenie a scare.

Why is he overreacting? Did I hit the bull’s eye? Is that why he’s panicking? “Careful, Mr. Manson. I’ll keep that a secret. Nobody’s gonna know.” She regretted bringing that topic up when he was driving. She almost caused a car crash because of that.

Right then, Nigel pulled over to the side of the road, which was empty of cars.

As Queenie was wondering why the man had parked the car in this spot, she heard an icy voice coming from the driver seat. “What did you just say?”

She turned to him and noticed the fury in his eyes. If looks could kill, she figured she would be dead by now.

Her skin started crawling. Was it something I said? He doesn’t want anyone to find out, does he? “Sorry, Mr. Manson. I didn’t say anything. I don’t know anything. That was just a joke, and I have seen nothing.” She decided to take back what she said. So, he doesn’t like anyone talking about his preference.

“Did you just say I’m in love with Julian?” Nigel was getting dangerously close to her.

Queenie took a deep breath and answered calmly, “Calm down, Mr. Manson. I’m an ally here. I’m not going to judge you because of your preference. In fact, I’ll be supportive of your relationship with Julian. Love is love, so who cares what the public thinks?” She thought that would calm him down, but it did the contrary.

Nigel pressed his lips into a thin line, veins popping around his neck. He was refraining from yelling at her. How did she even get to that kind of conclusion?

For some reason, Queenie thought the air was getting thinner as he inched closer. His pearly white skin tone made his cold, handsome features appear all the more menacing as she started to suspect he was a vampire.

Was that not enough to calm him down? She was panicking, and her palms were sweating. I knew I shouldn’t have spouted his secrets just like that. It brings nothing but trouble. “I promise I won’t tell anyone about it. I’ll even come up with an agreement. If I tell anyone—” She didn’t get to finish that sentence.

Nigel finally snapped. He held her cheeks with both of his hands, which resulted in her lips puckering up, looking like a heart-shaped jelly. He closed his eyes as if he were making up his mind before he leaned forward and pressed his lips against hers. Her lips were sweet and soft, not as detestable as he thought. He even shivered upon making contact with her lips as if a current of electricity had been running across his body, and by instinct, he pried her lips open and went in for a French kiss.

Queenie quivered as well as if she were shocked by electricity. Instinctively, she shoved him away and shifted herself close to the window by her side, covering her mouth with her hand.

“W-W-What was that?” she stammered. I-I thought he likes Julian? Why did he kiss me? Is he a bi? Oh my god.

Nigel lowered his head slightly as he brushed his finger across his lips. For the first time, he realized kissing wasn’t as bland as he thought it to be. In fact, he wanted more of it from Queenie.

If she hadn’t pushed him away, Nigel felt he could have kissed her forever. He stared at the woman sticking close to the door in disbelief, his gaze burning with the passion that was usually not there.

Queenie blushed and averted her gaze the instant she met his eyes, then fiddled with her fingers awkwardly.

He poked the insides of his cheeks with his tongue and explained, “Listen closely. Julian’s my best friend. Say he’s my boyfriend again, and I’ll kiss you. I don’t mind doing that.”

She blinked her eyes in shock. “A-Are you sure he’s not your boyfriend?”

Seeing the doubtful expression on her face, he couldn’t stop himself from roaring, “I’m straight, you hear that?!”

Queenie felt her ears buzz and almost leaped up at his sudden roar.

I should speak up for Julian, or she might think he’s not straight. Nigel snorted. “Julian is straight too. If you try to match us up again…” He curled his fingers up and threatened to knock on her head.

She quickly held her head and responded, “Fine, fine. I got it already, Mr. Manson.”

He was still a little miffed, so he flicked her arms, earning a gasp from her. “That hurts.”

“That’s the point.” His lips curled into a smirk.

Queenie shot him a glare. “You could have just said so. That kiss was unnecessary.”

you? I just wanted to prove my point

get mad at him, but she couldn’t. After all, she was the one poking around with his business, so

The guy was trying to cheer the girl up as he opened the door for

sorry, Bonnie. I know I was wrong. I shouldn’t have let my mind run wild,” Leslie

you, we can break up. I have a line of men who would kill to be my boyfriend,” Bonnie

wouldn’t take my calls, and I was worried. Look,

she wasn’t worried. After all, she wasn’t paying for her

and parked his car. Queenie got out of the car, and Nigel stood beside her. She looked rather petite

and had not put on any makeup, but that only served to make her look even more refreshing, unlike most women. “This place

“Are you saying

her head like a kid. He’s paying. Might as well take advantage of it. It’s not like one

about to pat her head, but then he thought it was inappropriate, so he balled his fist and pulled his hand

to the top floor. The place looked

table by the window,” Queenie told the waitress and went to the

spot

Queenie took the spot beside the window seat. She couldn’t have a full view

should get ourselves a room,” Nigel suggested.

loved lively places, and she didn’t want to stay in a room alone

that. Nigel then pulled back the chair

food costs a lot. She ordered a few of her favorites and handed the menu back to the waitress. On

minuscule. But since he has ordered a ton, I

them. Queenie held up the glass and took a

little glowing obsidian. Nigel was sipping on his wine as well, but instead of the sunset, he was enjoying the view of the lady before him. He couldn’t believe the kiss just now almost made him lose control

However, when Queenie said he wasn’t straight, he just felt the

hatred. What a coincidence. It just has to be them that we run into

was holding Leslie’s hand, coming back to their spot with her head held high like a proud peacock. Just as she was about to flip her hair with her other hand, her movement froze when her eyes met Queenie’s gaze. Her eyes went wide. It was surprising to see Queenie and Nigel here, and even more surprisingly, their seat was right next to

pulled back her hand, which was held by Leslie, as if doing

them both as well, and his face fell. Did she bring him here to get her

a big smile.

the couple. He

our table now.” Leslie tried to take Bonnie back to

brief contemplation. After all, it was facing Nigel. She could still impress him right over her

and looked at

and narrowed

be capable enough to date someone like Nigel.

get a room?” Leslie decided to stay away

being here is fine.” Bonnie refused to change spots. She loved to keep

Nigel waved at the waiter, who quickly came over.

a

number eight is vacant. I’ll take you there.” The waiter got him

a good idea, so she picked her handbag up and followed

stiff. She bit her lip

him again. Leslie coughed slightly to catch her attention. “Let them

of Nigel and Queenie flirting with each other in the room soured her mood. She thought stealing Leslie from Queenie would break

tried his best to cheer Bonnie

good!” she snapped and turned her

felt instant relief as soon as she moved to the room. Finally some peace and quiet, she thought. She was just about

and nodded. “My mom told me to go home. I don’t want

It’s not like I want you in

“Good for you, then. Nobody is going to steal your snacks anymore.” Though, it’s cute that a guy has so many

still be coming to work, then?” He squinted. She has returned to her family now. Guess she doesn’t need the salary already. Is she

course! You made me your assistant, remember? There’s no way I’m letting such a great opportunity slip by.” The thought of quitting never crossed her mind. Work gave her life meaning, making her days

late, then,”

lip and counted something with her fingers. “Your snacks cost about 41 hundred dollars, the clothes you gave cost about 14 hundred, and

liked taking advantage of people. She had spent his money for a while now, so

have to go that far? Is she serious about paying me back? “It’s alright,” he answered generously. “You don’t have to do

do have to do that,”

“No, you don’t.”

“Yes, I do.”

“No, you don’t.”

do. And I

not taking

and stared at Nigel.

out. “I have never asked

the window. The street lamps started to light up like fireflies flying through

also staring at her profile. She was more beautiful

She turned her head

but never once had she shifted her gaze away from him as if the first one doing so would be

end, Nigel blushed a little and coughed before looking

pretty, don’t you?”

in a family lacking nothing, so she was

she wouldn’t beat herself up over it. She joked,

to tell her she wasn’t ugly. If she debuted in the entertainment industry, she would look better than

food was served, and Queenie’s

opened the door,

at her estranged sister in confusion. What’s going

in after Bonnie and quickly explained, “You took it the wrong way, Bonnie. I

fiercely. “Don’t touch

shocked, and Queenie was surprised Bonnie found out Leslie was hitting someone

promise I won’t say anything stupid anymore,” he quickly promised.

“I don’t care about your promise.

Leslie couldn’t do anything about the situation. Bonnie was usually a seductive woman,

him off for me, Queenie. I don’t want to see him anymore. I wanna break up with

into this. Dad and

“I’m

fumble a little. This is going to be hard to handle. “Don’t interrupt them while they’re having dinner. I’ll take you home.” Leslie

jumped like a shocked little bunny. “I’m not going with you. Don’t touch

if I didn’t know better, I would’ve thought Leslie abuses her every day. Queenie frowned, and Leslie had no choice but to leave

so try

turned around and sneered. “I thought you loved

a sorrowful look. “Can I come with you, Queenie? I don’t want him to harass

she sat down.

one more set of cutlery here? I’m still hungry,” she asked

eating as elegantly as she could. She didn’t even feel

later, Queenie lost all her appetite. Gah, I hate seeing

grabbed his car

alright. We’ll just get a cab.” She didn’t want

so that she could ride in Nigel’s car. Now that she showed him she was breaking up with Leslie, it would put no pressure on

Bonnie got her wish of riding in his car, and her eyes glinted with joy. He’s my target now. Leslie can never be a tenth of a

had chest pain and asked, “I don’t feel well today, Queenie. Can

wanna sit with you anyway. If you have the passenger seat, I can have

looked at Bonnie for a moment before turning his sight to the reflection of Queenie in the rearview mirror, and then he revved his car

where her house was. He turned the GPS on and drove straight to the Silverstein Residence. A gust of wind blew in through the window that had been rolled down, causing her hair to flutter. She thought she looked really beautiful with her hair swaying in the air, and she kept giving suggestive looks to Nigel. Ah,

against the window, feeling sleepy. The neon lights that zipped past her felt almost hypnotic and almost drove

at his hand, imagining how it would feel if those hands were grabbing her body. She heated

and he parked right outside the gates. Bonnie was

she taking so long? He turned around and saw her sleeping against the

opened the backseat door, but someone

his

Queenie in his arms with one hand on her hips and the other on her lower back. Queenie was wrapping her arms around his neck, and their faces were only an inch

me down?” Queenie was red. It was the first time someone was holding her with all his might, and it felt great to

let her go, and she landed only to wobble and fall into his chest,