Chapter 9
I rushed to the restroom and splashed cold water on my face, but still couldn’t calm my racing heart.
Reed had just been flirting with Grace, and now he was hitting on me.
I couldn’t help wondering if he’d been rejected by Grace and was seeking comfort from me.
And what about that heavy breathing on the phone call?
Or maybe he was using himself as bait to prevent me from going to Harlow Industries?
Or perhaps… he liked me? No, that was ridiculous.
“Olivia, are you okay?”
Lost in thought, I hadn’t noticed Grace appear beside me at the sink.
She handed me a makeup bag.
“You looked pale when you came out, so I followed you.”
In the mirror, my face was ashen, my lipstick smudged.
She rested her chin on my shoulder, like a purring kitten.
“Did Reed tell you about our engagement?
“My coming for the interview was actually his idea. He said you’re so good at taking care of people and would take care of me too.
“I’m sorry, Olivia. If I hadn’t returned to the States, I believe he might have fallen for you eventually.
“But Daddy says my sister broke Reed’s heart years ago, and I shouldn’t be selfish
anymore.
“Keep it a secret, okay? He doesn’t want me going public yet, or he says he’ll have to spank me.”
Her almond–shaped eyes watched me through the mirror with a faint smile.
I pushed the makeup bag back to her, hugging my arms tightly, struggling to stay calm.
“Thanks, but I don’t like using other people’s things.
“Congratulations to you both.
1/2
“Don’t worry, we were just discussing business matters–my resignation.”
I walked out of the bathroom first.
This sudden show of territorial marking filled me with frustration and humiliation.
A new message popped up on my phone.
From Reed: [Tonight’s gala. Be ready to attend with me.]
Events like this were usually for executives only.
And Reed had never brought a date before.
