Chapter 25
Through Percy, Lily seemed to still see the distinguished and handsome man from earlier that morning. A wave of jealousy suddenly washed over her. Percy should’ve been focused on her, not Scarlett. She couldn’t understand why he was giving Scarlett the attention instead of her. She had to find a way to take him away from Scarlett. Lily was confident. After all, this wasn’t her first time doing something like this. Scarlett had no idea that Lily had set her sights on another one of her new friends. They stepped outside and immediately bumped into Xavier. He was tall and impeccably dressed in a luxurious black suit. His features were sharp and striking, and his presence carried a natural authority. The moment he appeared, a powerful pressure seemed to spread around him, drawing everyone’s attention. As he walked toward them, many pedestrians couldn’t help but turn their heads. Percy cursed under his breath, stuffed the takeout box into Scarlett’s hands and immediately tried to run. “Stop.” The word alone was enough to freeze Percy in place. He stood stiffly, as though trapped by an invisible force. Xavier walked over and asked coldly, “Why didn’t you go home right after school?” Percy turned around with a cheeky grin and put on his best act. “I was just having Scarlett help me with some lessons. I couldn’t exactly take her home with me, so I used the time after school to go over a few questions.” Scarlett was speechless. He didn’t even blink while lying. Clearly, this wasn’t the first time Percy had tried to fool Xavier. Xavier pursed his lips before replying, “You can take her home.” Percy’s heart was still thudding wildly. He froze for a second before blurting out, “Huh? What?” He wondered if he had heard it correctly. Did Xavier really just say he could take Scarlett home? That was Xavier’s private domain. No woman had ever entered before. To help Percy with his lessons, Xavier was making a huge sacrifice. Flustered, Percy quickly said, “It’s really not necessary. She can just help me at school…” “Take her home. I’ll supervise while she tutors you,” Xavier said. Percy was taken aback. This was a disaster. Scarlett was equally confused. Did she really have to go with them? She asked in confusion, “Uncle Xavier, do you mean I should go back with you two?” Xavier frowned in displeasure. “Don’t call me Uncle Xavier. Mr. Stroud is fine.” Scarlett blinked. “Mr. Stroud, do you mean…” Xavier replied, “Do I need to repeat myself?” Scarlett was completely baffled but followed them toward the luxury car. Joanna came running out of the restaurant. “Scarlett, wait! Your wages!” Scarlett stopped, turning to look at her. After shoving the money into Scarlett’s hands, Joanna turned and ran off, eager to claim credit. She didn’t spare a glance at Xavier, Percy, or the luxury car parked just ahead of Scarlett. If she had, she would’ve definitely freaked out. Scarlett looked at the 1,300 dollars in her hand and let out a satisfied smile. As she caught Percy and Xavier’s curious gazes, she said cheerfully, “The dog gave me my wages back.” Percy bit his lip, barely holding in his laughter. Xavier glanced at the thin wad of bills in her hand with curiosity but didn’t say a word. The three of them walked toward the car.