《Hello, CEO! Don鈥檛 Play With Me!》


 [1]

    Giselle reads the script given to her before starting the shoot this time. Her face was already made up, not a w was created there. It¡¯s like God didn¡¯t want any mistakes when sculpting this baster-white skinned girl¡¯s face. Not to mention her perfectly proportioned posture.


    SEO Fashion is lucky to have a model like Giselle Namiozuka. And this year is the year where the peak of Giselle¡¯s career is at its highest.


    ¡°I just have to do this, right?¡± asked Giselle as she handed over the sheet she had finished reading. To Brina who was never far away from her. a woman who was actually beautiful but covered by a face and speech that often sounded fierce. It was not without reason that Brina disyed her fierceness. Dealing with Giselle did have to be firm.


    Otherwise¡­ she don¡¯t know what would have happened.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Brina sighed softly. ¡°Come on, I¡¯ve given you ck for eating today. Don¡¯t let Justin know.¡± She pulled out one of the jars of chocte cookies from one of the girl¡¯s favorite bakeries. In fact, because she bought so often at the same outlet, and knew that her customer was her number one fan, the bakery did not hesitate to give Giselle a special price and a generous bonus.


    ¡°But I need to calm my mind, Brina,¡± Giselle said while giving a babyish look. Her eyes zed over as her hand gently reached for the jar Brina was holding. ¡°Just a little. I won¡¯t break it again the next day. I¡¯ll definitely follow your directions for the diet.


    Brina chuckled in annoyance. ¡°That little bit of yours took up an entire jar, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Pleasssseeee,¡± Giselle said in a seductive voice.


    Actually, Brina could not bear it but she should not becent. ¡°No.¡± She walked away with the jar. ¡°That¡¯s enough. Five minutes to your session, Giselle. I¡¯ll call the MUA to check your hairdo and the dress you¡¯ve worn. Don¡¯t let any part of it go wrong. You know, Justin is a perfectionist with results.¡±


    Giselle scowled. Her arms were folded across her chest. No matter what Brina said, she preferred to look away. She didn¡¯t care if anyone was watching but it was impossible. She was in a special room where only she and Brina were free to go back and forth to take care of her needs.


    On purpose.


    She doesn¡¯t really like joining in with other models. Or being friendly with other people in the studio. Giselle has her own trauma with friendliness. Nor does she want people to know what her true nature is like. It¡¯s not a bad thing, but Giselle only shows who she is to the people she trusts and that includes Brina.


    Not wanting to remember the time when she was saddened by the familiarity of others, she chose to reclinefortably on the sofa, waiting for her turn to show off the dresses made by Justin that will be her summer collection this time.


    ¡°Chocte can relieve stress.¡± She massaged her temples lightly. ¡°Damn it!¡±


    He immediately grabbed the cell phone on the table. Full of boredom, he just yed the phone randomly. Until the cell phone vibrates where it disys one message, iing. Making his forehead wrinkle because there is no sender¡¯s name. Not even a text message sent but a photo.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Who, huh?¡± she asked curiously but her fingers swiftly opened the message. And she regretted opening that message so much. Her past self¡­ half-naked, dancing with such erotic movements.


    Giselle has never forgotten this dark part of her life. Not even one day could she erase it from her memory. Whatever activities she did in there,plete with the glittering lights and the strong smell of alcohol, could not be erased from her past.


    However, who has dared to explore it so far?


    Giselle¡¯s hands were shaking as she held her cell phone. Shortly after the photo, another message came in.


    +6388900124:


    What if this gets out?


    ***


    ¡°Damn it!¡±


    Giselle threw away the bag that had been slung over her shoulder. Her breathing was ragged. Her hands were still shaking. Her eyes were also not very focused on her surroundings. She don¡¯t know how God made her calm during today¡¯s photoshoot.


    Though today was the final day of a long trip to Long Ind. The beaches in the southeastern part of the state are very beautiful. It fits perfectly with the theme of this photo shoot. Justin¡¯s summer theme is mostly low-cut and brightly colored florals.


    Justin had warned him not to let his concentration be divided. Not that he didn¡¯t trust Giselle¡¯s way of working, not at all. Giselle understood Justin¡¯s warning a few days ago.


    ¡°You know, this collection is toplement you at your highest peak, Giselle. That show you did three months ago was a real attention-grabber. And because of that, you have to keep everything. Keeping is harder than taking.¡±


    Giselle smiled broadly. Every time she spoke to the man she considered to be her angel without wings, she never let her eyes wander. Only at Justin. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Justin lifted his gaze from the many photos of Giselle spread across the table. There were mostly no gaps but as someone who had the final say on which photos to use, Justin couldn¡¯t afford to be careless in his decision.


    ¡°Do you need anything?¡± asked Justin, returning the gaze intently. ¡°Tell me. If you want anything before going to Long Ind, don¡¯t hesitate to tell me.¡±


    ¡°Are youing?¡± asked Giselle without hesitation.


    Justin smiled slightly. He shifted his seat slightly and reached out to stroke the top of Giselle¡¯s head. ¡°You know I¡¯m busy, right? You went with Brina and Nico. They must be taking good care of you.¡±


    Giselle pouted. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since you apanied me to a photo shoot. You said you had a vacation nned. When?¡±


    Justin chuckled. ¡°Stop sulking. I really have a lot on my te. You¡¯ll get through it just fine like always, right?¡±


    In order to get apliment from Justin, Giselle nodded. No matter, she also had to understand that a man like Justin was not someone who could rx easily. Especially after a sessful performance that brought him to the highest peak he could reach.


    ¡°Be patient. When the timees, let¡¯s take a vacation together.¡±


    Perhaps it was that remark that brought Giselle¡¯s focus back at thest second before she struck many poses. Showing off the curves of her outfit. As well as highlighting some of the important parts in Justin¡¯s design. And thank God, there were no problems until the end of the session. In fact, as usual, the photographer praised Giselle Namiozuka¡¯s level of professionalism.


    ¡°Why is something like thising to me?¡±


    She reached again for the cell phone in her bag. Fortunately, the phone was resilient. Otherwise, it might have been damaged because Giselle threw the bag with full force. It even caused one of the disys to fall over and crack. Giselle fiddled with it for a while and then stared intently at the numbers and photos that now filled her phone screen.


    She swiped the green icon on the end of the phone. Soon, the phone line was connected.


    ¡°What do you want?¡±

 [2]

    The familiar sounds that continued to deafen her but were her apaniment tonight, would not stop until the appointed time. From the moment his feet stepped into the already packed room, she knew there was nowhere for him to go back to. Other than following the rhythm, there was nothing she could do.


    Who will sustain his life in the cruelty of the capital city? No one.


    ¡°Wow, Nami¡¯s here!¡±


    The sound was a sign of the music and the festive atmosphere. The blonde-haired girl with beautiful eyes only smiled faintly. The skirt covering her thighs, with tasseled ess that swayed seductively. She had a posture that she could use as a charmer. Not to mention her face was like a modern-day Aphrodite. Too dazzling to keep looking at only unfortunately, her fate is not as beautiful as the face she has.


    ¡°Thank you for waiting.¡± Giselle widened her smile even more. Fixing the mask she wore as a trademark when she performed. She epted a handshake and headed for the stage where she would perform her pole dance skills.


    In the center is a fairly famous club on the edge of the city, and it is because of this show that their number of visitors rises day by day.


    ¡°Ah¡­ look! Nami is beautiful!¡±


    ¡°You really are a little tease, Nami!¡±


    ¡°Come on! Show us your skills!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve prepared a lot of money to touch you, dear.¡±


    ¡°Ahhh, I can¡¯t wait down here. Nami¡­ look at me!¡±


    ¡°Nami, I¡¯m your fan!¡±


    It¡¯s not just the male patrons who are making noise, the women who are guests at the club, even though their gazes are zed over in distaste, are still gushing with praise and can¡¯t wait to see how Giselle performs tonight. Those voices apany every move Giselle makes. She begins with her hands firmly gripping the prepared pole. Her eyes are closed, trying to focus on what she will do in a moment.


    ¡°Hang in there, me. Don¡¯tin, no one will hear you,¡± she said to herself, but on her lips she wore a smile as sweet as honey. Her eyes sharpened to take in her surroundings. She began to use her hands as his main support. Then her legs, which were wrapped around the pole, turned slowly. Letting her flowing hair almost touch the floor she had been standing on.


    It kept moving as if it was the master of the pole that was its main support. At about one-third the height of the pole, she began to spin to a rhythm that made her heart beat faster. Adjusting to the music in the background of this dimly lit room.


    Her hand reached out to touch the faces of one guest after another who surrounded her. Smiling to greet them with a seductive nce that she perfectly created. Which made the men start to burn with desire. Who didn¡¯t want to get Giselle¡¯s touch just once but many times. Even when the girl stops spinning, she focuses her body and movements on her legs. Which is wrapped around the pole and gripped firmly on the other leg.


    She deliberately inted his chest to continue to be the center of attention. Even her free hand, deliberately tracing his limbs very slowly. Tempting. And emphasized that she was indeed created with a lot of charm. The thigh-length dress had such a low-cut chest. Her white skin was tempered by colorful lights, making her a true star in the crowd.


    The faces that she had touched earlier, now looked eager to feel just a little bit of the woman¡¯s body that was spinning slowly and asionally shaking her hair slowly. Sexy and seductive. Unfortunately, Giselle could not be carelessly touched.


    There is a certain code of conduct that all guests who want to see the show must abide by; they are not allowed to touch Giselle even a fingernail. However¡­ there are exceptions for guests who are willing to pay a premium. Very expensive.


    Who wouldn¡¯t lust after an angel in a club like this? Whatever the price, as long as they can touch Giselle, it doesn¡¯t matter. So they thought.


    When the show stopped, cheers immediately filled the first floor of the club where she worked. was Giselle done? Not at all. This is exactly what they were waiting for; Giselle dancing on the table.


    ¡°Shit! I can¡¯t take it anymore!¡± said one of the diners as Giselley down on the table. She closed her eyes as she traced her own stomach, giving an expression as if she was being groped by many hands nearby.


    Especially when she squeezed her own chest. Although the music was getting louder, it was as if they could hear Giselle¡¯s sighs from her expression. Who seemed to enjoy what was done on the table.


    ¡°I really want to enjoy your body, Nami!¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Giselle took a quick nce at the man who had just made a sound. She just threw a kiss from her hand and returned to her nosy ogling.


    ¡°This club is famous for the quality of its women. I can¡¯t wait to go up to the second floor.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    All of them who could only enjoy Giselle¡¯s performance, who were so tempted that they could not restrain their lust, chose to immediately approach the woman they could hire just to vent their desires that were already on the edge. If they held back, they might go crazy. Because Giselle¡¯s performance was just a prelude to them spending a lot of money here.


    For almost an hour Giselle twirled here and there, teasing those who were still faithfully watching her performance. asionally, she let their hands touch the ends of her hair. Or just on the surface of the skin on her breasts, just to slip in a tip. Giselle smiled even wider as her heart screamed in disapproval.


    But she really couldn¡¯t get out of hell like this.


    Her choice; her parents end up in intensive care or she must be willing to do whatever Jilly asks. The owner of the club where she works.


    ¡°As usual, you are popr,¡± Jilly said as she approached her. She put on arge kimono to partially cover Giselle¡¯s body. On stage, Giselle¡¯s body could be enjoyed by anyone. Afterward, Jilly was also a little possessive of her walking assets.


    Though Giselle doesn¡¯t feel the need to cover up anymore. she¡¯s used to being naked, right?


    Giselle had nothing to say even though her steps continued to apany Jilly.


    ¡°There are guests waiting for you in the VIP room. Serve them well.¡±


    ¡°B-but Jilly, our agreement is only a week or so-¡±


    Jilly gave Giselle a reluctant look. ¡°Your mom¡¯s surgery cost a lot, right? I¡¯ve already paid some of it so that they can continue her treatment. You can rest easy.¡±


    Giselle had no more words to say against the beautiful woman in the red dress. The woman¡¯s smile also continued to appear, asionally Giselle heard her greeting invited guests who identally passed by them. She was also very friendly to anyone who tried to flirt with her.


    She was sick of it.


    Very fed up.


    ¡°Get ready.¡± Jilly opened the door for Giselle in the room reserved for the women who worked under Jilly¡¯s control. Some of them nced at Giselle who stepped into this well-lit room.


    ¡°Don¡¯t keep my guests waiting, Nami.¡± Using her forefinger, Jilly slightly lifted the tip of Giselle¡¯s chin so that they were looking at each other. ¡°You must look your best. And don¡¯t think of running away or your mother¡¯s life is at stake.¡±


    BLAM!


    The door was closed rather roughly by Jilly. Making Giselle squeeze her kimono tightly.


    ¡°Forced to serve guests?¡± asked one of them. Lina was her name. Inside the room, there were three people doing hairdos and making sure they were ready if they were booked at any time by the visitors who were arrivingter andter. Making the atmosphere on the ground floor even more lively.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this our job?¡± Deasy giggled. ¡°Never mind. You better drink up, Nami. Rx, I¡¯m not meddling in it. Don¡¯t doubt me.¡±


    ¡°But I have to admit, you¡¯re getting good at the pole and the table.¡± Jessica, who was sitting in the center, where she was very busy with her wavy hair, spoke up. ¡°Do you practice every day, Nami?¡±


    ¡°Not really.¡± Giselle smiled slightly. She epted the hand of the mineral water bottle that was still tightly sealed. She opened it in one go and drank greedily. She did not care if the drops soaked her chest. There was a twisted feeling that struck her body. Not because of acid reflux or because he had eatente. Not at all.


    But it had to do with the fast-moving time in her life. In less than thirty minutes, she had to be in the VIP room like Jilly wanted.


    ¡°I heard that your mom is going through a pretty major surgery?¡± Deasy looked at Giselle sympathetically.


    ¡°That¡¯s how it is.¡± Giselle did not know how to express her face. She was afraid that something very bad would happen to her. ¡°I need to get through this night quickly. I have to see Mom in the morning before the surgery starts.¡±


    ¡°I hope everything is okay, Nami.¡± Deasy gave support to Giselle. Although it was only that, Giselle¡¯s heart was already very grateful.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Giselle said with a smile. She chose to sit in another corner a little further away from them, leaning back a little because of the sudden dizziness in her head. The performance had been exhausting. She wanted to take off the mask that covered part of her face but because she had to serve the guests, she could not carelessly show her face.


    No.


    She, the erotic dancing girl with a mask covering her beauty. That mysterious image must be maintained for who knows how long. As long as Mami Jilly¡¯s money could not be repaid, that was how long she served. To themands and orders of a beautiful woman who is actually vile.


    She just hoped¡­ her guests would understand that he was tired.


    She hoped for nothing more than her mother¡¯s recovery. She never thought that the guest would be the turning point of her dark life.

 [3]

    Giselle tried to hold back her tears so that she could smile. Whereas the person sitting in front of her, who was leisurely enjoying the dinner this time. there was no implied burden or guilt for having disturbed someone so easily.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t eat?¡± the figure asked as he took a big bite of his favorite steak. ¡°You sure know how to entertain old friends.¡±


    Giselle grinned slightly. She picked up the ss of wine that was served to her. She sipped slowly while enjoying the view below. She had deliberately met in a ce with privacy to avoid any interruptions from the news seekers. Ever since his name soared, Justin had given a big warning; if he wanted to meet someone, no matter what, it had to be with one of the SEO staff and the venue had to be private.


    There was one time when he broke thew, because she felt he wanted a little taste of the pleasure of enjoying fast-food fried chicken at a 24-hour restaurant. Unfortunately, before she could enjoy it, fans and paparazzi had surrounded her. Inevitably, making Giselle¡¯s mood messy. But she couldn¡¯t show an upset face in the midst of many people like that. Giselle had to keep a friendly smile in the midst of trying to keep them at a distance. It¡¯s not that she doesn¡¯t want to be around supportive fans, but you know, sometimes they do more than just shake hands.


    And that made her ufortable.


    Reminded her of the past.


    The interlocutor asionally observed the changes Giselle had undergone since theyst met. She wiped the corner of her lips with a tissue, afraid of the steak sauce remaining there. She ced her fork and knife on the edge of the te.


    ¡°Are you done?¡± asked Giselle as she nced behind the ss still in her hand. ¡°If you still want to enjoy the deliciousness of the number one quality meat in the country, go ahead. I¡¯m fine with it.¡±


    ¡°Bribery?¡± asked the figure with a chuckle that was full of condescension towards Giselle. She shook her head immediately, saying something that made Giselle¡¯s expression even more inmed. ¡°I¡¯m not easy for you to silence this time.¡±


    ¡°What is your purpose exactly?¡±


    Jilly, the person who sent the photo message and called Giselle a few hours ago, wasughing out loud. She didn¡¯t care if there were other diners staring at them. When she looked around, it turned out that there were only a few diners in the restaurant and they were far apart. It¡¯s like they don¡¯t want to be disturbed and disturb each other.


    ¡°Do you know what I want?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyeballs rolled in annoyance. ¡°I already gave you a stern warning about what you did to me.¡±


    Jilly chuckled again. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare bother me with that idle threat, Nami.¡± She leaned back on the chair she was sitting on. Further intimidating Giselle who looked calm in front of her. The same dish as before was not enjoyed by the model. I wonder what Giselle was thinking ordering the same steak as her.


    Unfortunately, the price of a steak here could eat up her hefty monthly allowance from one of the men who willingly pays for her life. But not content to stop there, she needs something to milk on her own; Giselle Namiozuka.


    One that he can always rely on under any circumstances.


    ¡°I was taught not to manipte words that have already been spoken.¡± Giselle put down her ss slowly. The look in her eyes was just as fierce as the woman who was bing increasingly annoying. ¡°Two months ago you had me at the limit of what I could tolerate. And you¡¯re testing me again?¡±


    ¡°But in the end, you met me, right?¡± Jilly smiled widely. Never afraid of Giselle¡¯s expression that now looked scary. She knew Giselle more than anyone else in the world. Watching how the actions of the girl who was just an ordinary entertainer went up and up along with the profits she made as the name Nami, the beautiful masked dancer, became more and more in demand out there.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Instead of answering, Giselle chose to enjoy the steak that was already cooler than when it was first served. But she still savored every cut she made on the sirloin, which she asked to be cooked to a well-done level. There was no bad food in Giselle¡¯s dictionary because she knew how hard it was to earn a penny.


    she no longer wanted to experience the hardships that had once ensnared her life. For this reason, she tried his best to keep moving forward in life. No matter what risks she will face.


    ¡°I only want five hundred million. That¡¯s a small amount, right?¡± asked Jilly while supporting her face with her hands. She watched as Giselle savored every bite. Even this girl, who she admitted was beautiful, asionally closed her eyes as if every bite that entered her mouth was the ultimate pleasure.


    ¡°You heard me, right?¡± asked Jilly, who felt ignored because the other person ignored her words. ¡°I¡¯m not messing around with sharing photos that I think are¡­ beautiful.¡± She picked up the cell phone in her handbag. Fiddling with it for a moment while ncing at Giselle, in case she lost her appetite. Or disy a look of annoyance and immediately fulfill her wish.


    It¡¯s not a lot ording to Jilly for Giselle at this point. Perhaps her one job in the modeling world that made her name was not out of the question. If it wasn¡¯t Jilly who asked Giselle to apany the guest that night, neither the meeting nor Giselle¡¯s resignation would have been possible.


    Although Jilly admits, she drained a lot of money from the guest. No matter, the price was right to allow her valuable assets to leave the club she managed. She had already calcted the reimbursement amount along with the debt she owed Giselleplete with interest. Jilly thought that the man had backed off from the amount he had said before the signing of the release contract took ce.


    Less than two dayster, the man came back with several aides. Each of them put a suitcase filled with cash. In ordance with the amount Jilly requested. There was nothing Jilly could do but let him go, right?


    But Jilly is still Jilly.


    She only promised to let go, no more dealing, but it seems the man forgot, Giselle can still be used as she is now.


    ¡°Or do you want something more fun?¡± Jilly smiled widely. Her eyes were yful as she looked at Giselle who was still enjoying her meal. ¡°I hope this show doesn¡¯t make you lose your appetite.¡±


    That remark was met with a very thin grin from Giselle. It was as if she was the only one at 91st Luxurious Steak, unapanied by the obnoxious Jilly. She enjoyed everything the restaurant served with gusto. She didn¡¯t even leave any of the side dishes she ordered.


    ustomed to practicing maintaining and disying a calm expression, in any situation, allows Giselle to suppress all her anger and irritation towards the other person. If she had been allowed to use harsh words, she would have done it earlier.


    Instead of doing that, what Giselle did seemed to have seeded in provoking Jilly¡¯s emotions. Jilly was seen clucking repeatedly with Giselle¡¯s calm demeanor. Plus, the model did not respond to Jilly¡¯s words. It was true what her coach said, if she was calm in the face of an enemy, it was one of her strongest shields. In addition to observing what the opponent was going to do, it was also to repel in one fell swoop. Or at least counterbnce the conversation if she was put in a position with a lot of people.


    And the calmness that Giselle often disys, she also uses if she is in a situation that is quite stressful. Such as meeting important people that she never thought she¡¯d get the chance to meet before.


    Shit! That girl ispletely ignoring me! Just look at it! You won¡¯t be able to dodge it and it¡¯ll be really big news if I spread it. It¡¯s your loss, Nami! Jilly muttered to herself. She handed the cell phone to Giselle.


    ¡°What if I share this video?¡± asked Jilly quietly, pressing y on her phone.


    Giselle knew at once what kind of footage Jilly was showing her. She swallowed thest piece of meat. Giselle¡¯s hand that had been holding the cutlery, she put it down to make it rough. Her eyes shed with such dislike.


    ¡°You¡¯ve gone too far, Jilly.¡±


    The woman felt on the cusp of victory. ¡°Obey my wishes then. Easy, right?¡±

 [4]

    ¡°Wow, Giselle is really beautiful.¡±


    ¡°Really like the Goddess of Beauty!¡±This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°KYahhh! Giselle! I have to take a picture!¡±


    Giselle was only able to smile slightly in response. Sometimes she would wave back. Letting some of the people who weed her in the lobby of the SEO office take out their respective cellphones. some were recording, taking pictures, and perhaps broadcasting live on their personal channels.


    She never made it a problem as long as they were polite. What makes Giselle often ask for a separate escort from SEO staff is that crazy fans are clearly everywhere. She doesn¡¯t want an incident to happen that traumatizes her.


    Her hand was dragged away by arge man. Forced to follow that step rudely and there was an argument with the security guard. At that time Giselle had justnded at the airport. Didn¡¯t know that many fans were waiting for her there.


    Since then, Giselle has never been separated from the four SEO staff who always look after her.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± asked one of the staff as they escaped the crowd of fans in the lobby area. They were waiting for the elevator that would lead to the floor where the SEO boss worked.


    ¡°Nothing happened to me,¡± Giselle said with a big smile. ¡°Thank goodness. That incident really served as a warning to the fans.¡±


    ¡°But we must not let our guard down, Miss.¡±


    Giselle agreed. He continued to move towards the room where Giselle had already memorized the location.


    Giselle¡¯s arrival in his office made the man who was examining some of the reports presented by several divisions in his office, stop in his tracks. Justin¡¯s eyes were immediately filled with the figure of the girl who sat while frowning.


    ¡°What happened?¡± he asked, resuming the work he had stopped just now. ¡°Brina told me you got into an argument with Yunesha¡¯s owner?¡±


    Giselle put on an even more annoyed face. ¡°That man is so annoying. Don¡¯t you know the limits I set?¡±


    Justin chuckled. ¡°Do you need the job details in the contract so you can refer to them if they make you lose concentration?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that. You know, I¡¯ll do anything as long as you ask. But Yunesha? Who are they, anyway, SEO associates?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± said Justin, who now chose to approach Giselle. Even after he asked one of the office girls to bring him a cup of hot chocte. By the end of November, winter had greeted them all. Preparing for the turn of the year was also an event that would take ce at Yazeran. As the main star and super model that SEO relies on, Giselle has been confirmed to take part.


    And to top it off, it¡¯s the biggest partpared to other models.


    ¡°They¡¯re just partners.¡± Justin took his cigarette out of his zer pocket. Pinched the end against his already ckened lips. He let Giselle finish thest part before he enjoyed the cigarette in this room; lighting the me and burning the nicotine tip. ¡°Thanks,¡± Justin said as he puffed out the smoke.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t like it when Mr. Theo interferes too much during photo shoots. It¡¯s like he¡¯s the best at lens angles. I got tired of constantly having to strike the poses he wanted while once the results came out, I wasn¡¯t sure if they were worth publishing. I was embarrassed to see my face there myself.¡± Giselle let out a long sigh. She leaned backfortably on the soft sofa Justin had provided here.


    ¡°And what happened next?¡± Justin asked,ughing.


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one who knows best?¡±


    Obviously, the reaction made Justinugh. It was hrious. It was as ifughing at Giselle with her situation made him feel very happy. Aside from the fact that her pretty face looked distracted, Giselle was sure to be grumpy all day. And the only thing that could ease her sulking nature¡­ Justin would have to apany her to sit at the simple tavern she frequented.


    It didn¡¯t really matter to Justin, but for the next few days he was a bit busy. But if he doesn¡¯t make fun of Giselle, there seems to be something missing in Justin¡¯s life. So whatever it takes, he¡¯ll take it.


    ¡°You¡¯re too much!¡±


    At the same time as Giselle¡¯s words, a young girl in an SEO staff uniform entered. In her hands was a tray that read chocte cups as well as chocte-based snacks. But obviously, not just any snack because the amount of calories that will enter the model¡¯s body must be calcted.


    ¡°I put it here, sir.¡± The staff member resigned as soon as he was done with his business.


    ¡°You¡¯d better calm down first, Giselle. I deliberately ordered from a ce you like.¡±


    Giselle frowned again.


    ¡°Or do you want me to finish it?¡± Justin took another drag on his cigarette.


    ¡°It¡¯s delicious!¡± Giselle immediately pulled out the tray in front of her. She slowly savored the hot chocte that had been prepared for her. ¡°I won¡¯t let you touch my chocte.¡±


    Again, Justin¡¯sughter filled his office. ¡°Enjoy it while you can. Brina has some business with Jews Jewerly.¡±


    Giselle squealed with delight. Rarely did a time like thise along in her life. Even though she was irritated by the work she had been going through for a while, at least this ss of hot chocte could wash away the things that were ruining her mood. Justin always knew how to make her feel good and happy.


    Meanwhile, Justin spent his time checking his messages. There were so many messages, he was confused about which one to reply to first. But there was one message that interested him. It was from the person he paid to keep an eye on Giselle if his eyes got too far away from the model. Especially when he was out of town.


    No, there was one thing that he thought was too big a risk when he set the goal. Asking Giselle to model for the grand show that had ended a few months ago. Just as he had imagined and realized in the end, the show was a true sess. It brought Giselle Namiozuka to the pinnacle of fame. Who doesn¡¯t know Giselle, whose face is now often featured in fashion magazines? Also, her poprity is increasing day by day.


    However, that was bnced by the girl¡¯s past, which Justin tried hard to keep from being taken advantage of. The man simply couldn¡¯t rx if Giselle was out of his reach.


    Edwin:


    Sir, Miss Giselle met a woman at 19th Luxurious Steak. I have the evidence.


    A photo was sent by the man to Justin. Without looking twice, Justin knew who she was.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think your annoyance is just because of Mr. Theo,¡± Justin said as he exhaled the smoke from the cigarette, which was quite thick this time. There was little nicotine left and he chose to put it out. Straightening his back, Justin didn¡¯t want to waste any time asking Giselle.


    Given their time together is short. Once Justin made a promise, he would fulfill it to the death. He chose Giselle to be under his influence, his protection, and he would take her to the highest peak. For Giselle to be able to do whatever is within her reach. As for him? Obviously, the growing coffers of money and SEO shares. A mutually beneficial rtionship, right?


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± asked Giselle with a surprised look. Her mouth was still chewing on the sweet treat. ¡°These are delicious. Why don¡¯t you try them, Justin?¡± She handed him the jar of cookies, of which only half remained.


    ¡°You met someone two days ago?¡±


    Her chewing stopped. His eyes looked at Justin with a look of disbelief. But then, he tried to be as calm as possible. He took a sip of his warm chocte and smiled slightly for starters. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about the meeting. It¡¯s just old friends, right?¡±


    Justin¡¯s grin came out of nowhere. And it¡¯s clear who it¡¯s aimed at as Justin¡¯s interlocutor starts to look uneasy.


    ¡°Have you forgotten what I said?¡±


    Giselle swallowed nervously.


    ¡°So¡­ tell me the gist of your meeting.¡±

 [5]

    ¡°Which one do you think is better for me to wear?¡± asked Giselle as she rubbed the tip of her chin. In front of her, five or six dresses of different styles were disyed. She was so confused that she didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Seeing many things that Giselle couldn¡¯t have before made her recall old memories. No, they weren¡¯t. But old stories that she will never forget for the rest of her life.


    ¡°You want to meet a VIP guest wearing clothes that have been mixed with alcohol?¡± asked Jilly while squealing in disbelief.


    Thirty minutes was all the time he gave Giselle to prepare herself. When the beautiful woman in the red dress returned, he was furious. Giselle had done nothing for herself-at least change out of the clothes she had prepared. The tasseled dress Giselle had been wearing was sexy, but you know, all of Giselle¡¯s movements were not easy.


    It must have been mixed with sweat and alcohol that was identally sshed from the guests who crowded around him earlier.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Giselle quietly. She got up from her seat after making sure her mask was perfectly in ce.


    ¡°He¡¯s a VIP guest, Nami!¡± said Jilly with emphasis. ¡°Don¡¯t embarrass me!¡±


    Giselle only gave a nce and then smiled very faintly. ¡°I¡¯m sure, these clothes are more than enough to serve her tonight, right? Why change it? It would be easier and faster for me to finish the job here.¡±


    She stepped up to Jilly who was still standing in the doorway. ¡°Come¡­ show me the room.¡±


    There was nothing Jilly could do but point out the room where the guest was waiting for Giselle. Had it not been for the expensive offer mentioned during the meeting, she could be sure Giselle would have epted her wrath. Unfortunately, Giselle was one of the club¡¯s favorite girls.


    Giselle just followed his lead. there was no sense of anything but emptiness. Remember the deafening noise did not make her feel that her body was indeed in this spacious club. Even the asional greeting that came for her, she only responded with a faint smile. As if he was just a robot following his master¡¯s orders.


    What can she do when her whole life has a price tag on it? With flowers and all sorts of other demands? She could only hope, however faintly, that her mother would recover. That was all.


    ¡°So¡­ you¡¯re the one named Nami? The prettiest girl in this club?¡±


    The room where her guests were waiting was already closed by Jilly. Giselle was still standing by the door. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, so that she would be much calmer in facing the humiliating reality before her eyes. Although the light in this room was dim, Giselle could see that the man sitting in the middle of the sofa was leaningfortably there.


    Enjoying the most expensive cigarettes and wine the club could provide. His eyes were fixed on Giselle as if he did not want a single word toe out of them. Not to mention her body gestures saying; don¡¯t cause a disturbance and leave her unsatisfied.


    Tonight¡­ will be a long night of pain for Giselle¡¯s inner self.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Giselle smiled as sweet as honey even though her heart did not want to do this.


    ¡°Before youe any closer,¡± the man held Giselle¡¯s gaze fixed on him. Ever since she entered the room, he had been scanning her carefully. Her body was exactly what he wanted it to be. His head immediately conjured up images of what it would look like if the dress he had just finished was worn by this girl walking towards him.


    No.


    His steps had stopped. Behind the ck mask he wore, the man knew she was looking at him questioningly.


    ¡°Is something wrong, sir?¡± he asked softly.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± the man said immediately. ¡°But I want you to turn on the bright lights. I hate the dimness.¡± The man shook his ss lightly. But his eyes never left the girl whoplied with his request. Soon, the girl waspletely visible in front of him.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Wearing a thigh-length dress with a seductive tassel ent, the low-cut chest revealed the beauty of one of her body parts, and most unexpectedly the girl had skin as white as baster. It was as if the skin was given special care continuously.


    ¡°Is there anything else I should do?¡± asked Giselle, who approached again.


    ¡°Take off your dress.¡±


    Giselle closed her eyes tightly, her hands clenched involuntarily. But this was a dark part of her life. She could not escape or else much bigger problems woulde her way. All she could do was¡­ pull the zipper tied behind her back slowly. Even though she was still wearing a bra and very short pants to match her pole dancing moves, she was still not used to it.


    As soon as Giselle¡¯s clothes fell off, the man just stared with a t face. He rubbed the tip of his chin again as if he was thinking. But what? Giselle was left like this for a while. Her body was shivering slightly because the air conditioner in this room was turned on to the minimum temperature. Wearing only a bra and super short pants, it was clear that her skin could not withstand the cold for too long.


    If at other times, Giselle¡¯s body even without anything but they do hot activities. Now? God! What kind of ordeal was she facing?


    ¡°I need you to do something,¡± the man said, breaking the silence between them.


    It was a relief that the guest finally spoke. ¡°What do you want?¡± even so, there was a nagging uneasiness in Giselle¡¯s mind. She had often heard that guests at this club sometimes asked for things beyond the normal limits. But because of the pressure of money and the pressure Jilly put on all of them, no one could escape the strange desires the guest had.


    Especially to the point of having to serve VIP guests. Jilly could be really angry and make life difficult for Giselle. Moreover, it could be said that the breath that flowed through her mother¡¯s body came from Jilly. Giselle did not have the ability to get rid of Jilly¡¯s influence in her life. On one hand, she feels helped, on the other, she feels trapped for life.


    If there was someone who could help her get away from Jilly, she would give her whole life to that person. Anyone.


    ¡°Put this on.¡± The man ced an anonymous paper bag on the table with the wine bottle and ashtray. Even the cigarette butts were still there.


    Giselle blinked in fear but she couldn¡¯t help it, right? She ventured closer and to her surprise, she pulled out the paper bag. She was speechless with what was now touching her hand.


    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful,¡± sheplimented unconsciously. His eyes ruthlessly examined every detail on the long pastel-colored dress. The embroidered cranes on the sleeves and the blooming flowers on the back truly amazed him.


    ¡°Can you wear it yourself?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes collided with his. The man¡¯s smile was very faint as neither of them wanted to give in to the brief, conflicting nces that were being created.


    ¡°Even from behind your mask, I can confirm that you¡¯re perfectly suited for mytest design.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t understand what you mean.¡± Giselle put the beautiful dress back into ce. ¡°What after wearing it¡­ you¡¯re going to ruin it on top of my body?¡±


    The man, Justin Stockholm,ughed for the first time. He felt like his stomach was in knots, the corners of his eyes were wet from the force of hisughter, and he felt ridiculous that it was actually said by the girl he had his eye on.


    ¡°You know,¡± Justin cleared his throat briefly to stifle theughter he was still creating. ¡°This dress is my masterpiece. There¡¯s no way I¡¯m ruining it anytime soon.¡± He leaned closer to the girl now sitting in front of him. ¡°Wear it. And if my feelings are right, you¡¯re the one I¡¯m looking for.¡±


    Giselle blinked in disbelief.


    ¡°Bring me White Bird, and I¡¯ll take you to the highest peak.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t understand what you mean, sir?¡±


    Justin smiled broadly. ¡°I¡¯m Justin Stockholm, owner of the famous fashion house and agency, SEO fashion.¡±


    Giselle knows what a big name SEO is in this country. And because of that, she was very surprised. Really surprised.


    ¡°I¡¯m waiting for you to wear this dress, Giselle.¡±


    For the name her mother had given her, no one had ever called her by her first name, but this man in front of her, called out in a tone that made her have a glimmer of hope.


    ¡°If¡­¡± Giselle swallowed nervously. An opportunity would nevere a second time, right? ¡°If you think I¡¯m suitable to wear this dress, do you really mean what you just said?¡±


    ¡°Ride with me all the way to the top?¡± Justin asked for confirmation.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Name the price you want to get out of here. I¡¯ll make sure that what was said is realized immediately. Isn¡¯t it that if we have set a goal, we should never doubt the determination that burns in our hearts?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s tears fell freely. Not caring that she was only wearing a bra and shorts, she came closer. Kneeling down with heartbreaking cries. ¡°Release me from this ce, sir. I don¡¯t know what the price is but please¡­ I will do whatever it takes to support you.¡±

 [6]

    ¡°You still can¡¯t make up your mind?¡± asked Brina with a sigh that I don¡¯t know how many times she had done. Almost the entire contents of Giselle¡¯s closet were in disarray just to decide on the right dress to apany Justin to the g dinner.


    ¡°I¡¯m confused,¡± Giselle sighed resignedly. Sitting on the edge of the bed, she ruffled her hair in half frustration. ¡°Some of the endorse brands that gifted me dresses, have you taken them out?¡±


    ¡°Already.¡± Brina shook her head in surprise. ¡°You want to take my advice?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes, which had been staring at her toes, lifted slowly. Although they did not yet reflect the excitement of Brina¡¯s offer, at least she had hope. Her confusion had an answer.


    ¡°As a professional model, you need to be able to hone your sense of color and the cut of the clothes you¡¯re going to wear.¡±


    The words just now made Giselle straighten her back. It seemed like Giselle had forgotten the part that Brina was a person who knew quite a bit about fashion.


    ¡°What does Nico often say to you?¡±


    Giselle tried to remember what her style coach used to say. ¡°Emphasize my neck which is much more attractive than my chest?¡± Actually, she was a bit hesitant too, but that was what was going through her head.


    ¡°Anything else?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s memory was not very good because the training session with Nico and Brina was extraordinarily hard. There were so many things they said that had to be remembered, although some were important, but that was because Giselle was new to the world she was living in.


    ¡°Um¡­ waistline?¡±


    Brina chuckled. She picked up one of the turquoise dresses made of silk that was both soft and luxurious. As usual, the cut of the chest was low and definitely entuated Giselle¡¯s beautiful body. The crystal-based beadwork was hand-sewn to have a precision that was beautiful to look at. It is also the sparkle that makes anyone when looking at it, do not want to let go quickly. On the sleeves, it is made to resemble blossoming petals. Adding a sweet impression to the dress that Giselle will wear.


    ¡°You must be charming in this.¡± Brina picked up the clothes hanger. ¡°I¡¯ll find something suitable for essories if you like my choice.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s smile grew wide. ¡°Though I don¡¯t think it will suit me and the theme of tonight¡¯s g dinner.¡±


    Brina rolled her eyes in annoyance. ¡°If it doesn¡¯t fit the theme, remember one thing. You¡¯re the star there. There¡¯s no way they¡¯ll give you a weird look. Instead, you¡¯re the center of attention.¡±


    The remark clearly made Giselleugh but the clothes hanger, she happily epted. There was also one message that Brina immediately responded to with a long dumpling. ¡°Do my hair, too. It¡¯s too bad I can¡¯t cut a little of my long hair, Brina. I surrender myself to you tonight.¡±


    ¡°What a disaster for me toe here, Giselle!¡±


    Inevitably, the remark made Giselleugh while closing the toilet door. Before long, she was ready to put on her makeup and some additional essories. What Brina had chosen for her added to the beauty of what Giselle had.


    ¡°You¡¯re really something I can count on.¡± Giselle once again turned her body in front of the mirror. making sure there was nothing missing in her appearance tonight. it was not without reason that she wanted to look her best even if it was just an SEO business meeting like the previous nights.


    He wanted to thank Justin for listening to hisints about Yunesha. Thest day before the job waspleted was a pleasant one. The shoot went very smoothly and Yunesha¡¯s owner didn¡¯t argue and organize as much as before. Even so, Giselle still had to redo a photoshoot that wasn¡¯t quite right due to Theo¡¯s interference.


    It doesn¡¯t matter, as long as it¡¯s not pestered ording to Giselle, it¡¯s much faster to finish.


    ¡°Justin told me it¡¯s at the lobby. He¡¯ll probably be in front of your unit in five minutes.¡± Brina seemed satisfied with her choice. ¡°Have fun, Giselle. Remember my message, avoid chocte. You¡¯re already cheating too much.¡±


    ¡°When did I do that?¡± asked Giselle with a shocked look on her face. She did not expect to be exposed to unwarranted usations from Brina. Even though sheplied with everything Brina asked including reducing the entry of chocte snacks into the mouth.


    ¡°You think I don¡¯t know what Justin gives you when you visit his office? Even though I have other things to do outside the office, my eyes and ears are all over SEO.¡±


    Giselle kept her mouth shut. Feeling guilty but the one who prepared it was Justin anyway. So if Brina wanted to scold her, wouldn¡¯t it be better if Justin got hit first? At that moment, the bell in her unit rang quite loudly.


    Giselle blinked softly. ¡°Justin is here.¡± She hurriedly grabbed the handbag she had prepared earlier. ¡°I¡¯ll go first, Brina. If you don¡¯t want to stay the night, you can take the key with you. I have a spare key.¡±


    Brina just nodded while giving a thumbs up.


    ¡°Thank you for your help too. I¡¯ll remember about the chocte but can¡¯t promise to refrain.¡±


    Brina growled in annoyance. ¡°Giselle!¡±


    The sound ofughter that came out of Giselle¡¯s mouth at the end of their conversation, also greeted Justin who, as soon as Giselle opened the door, was already standing proudly. Complete with a faint smile that somehow¡­ always managed to make Giselle blush.


    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful as ever, Giselle,¡± Justin said as he reached out. And as their hands touched, he gave the back of Giselle¡¯s hand a peck. ¡°A real man will treat his woman gently.¡±


    Giselle just smiled, even though her heart was not beating properly.


    ¡°I hope that someday, you will meet that man. I¡¯m just setting an example.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s smile began to fade.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± asked Justin without noticing the rapid change in Giselle¡¯s expression. Not wanting to linger on the disappointment, wasn¡¯t it better to enjoy the time between them? When Giselle grabbed Justin¡¯s arm, he didn¡¯t meet any resistance. Instead, she was free to cling to him as if Justin was a loving partner.


    asionally, they talk about their current jobs. But Giselle does most of the talking;ining,ughing about meeting new friends, working under a new brand, or still marveling at how many fans she has. Not to mention the attitude of the fans that sometimes scares her. Meanwhile, as a good listener, Justin sometimes gives advice and asionally, Giselle¡¯s hair, which is only given a pearl clip, is gently stroked.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Justin¡¯s attitude was one that Giselle couldn¡¯t resist. At all.


    ¡°Before we leave for the location,¡± Justin borated a little on their closeness. ¡°I want you to know the situation we¡¯ll be in.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    Justin chuckled at the frown on Giselle¡¯s forehead. ¡°There¡¯s no need to try so hard to think. You just have to put on the face that I¡¯m branding you with.¡±


    ¡°I understand that, Justin. But why should I be briefed on the situation? Will it make trouble if I don¡¯t know?¡±


    Justin smiled softly. ¡°No, no, no. I¡¯ll get rid of any trouble thates your way.¡±


    ¡°So?¡± Giselle gave Justin a quizzical look.


    ¡°This g dinner will be attended by many famous media owners. Everyone will want to fight over you as the main topic. I know what you can do, I trust you. It¡¯s just that¡­ there¡¯s one person I¡¯m wary of.¡±


    Giselle didn¡¯t speak. She waited for Justin to tell her who he needed to avoid.


    ¡°Coge Media Owner; Andrew Kingston.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll remember that name.¡± Giselle kept that name in her heart tightly. Not to remember it, but to avoid getting herself into more trouble. Even Justin could concentrate on taking care of other work. It wasn¡¯t just him who was constantly being taken care of. Giselle knew that SEO Fashion had to keep going.


    Don¡¯t let the good image he has built, suddenly copse because of his wrong actions. Also¡­ his past is revealed.


    ¡°Maybe that guy just wants the money from the tons of gossip that his subordinates can gather, but one thing I haven¡¯t known for a long time and this is enough to worry me.¡±


    ¡°I thought I just needed to avoid him?¡± Giselle looked back at Justin.


    ¡°Andrew is close to Jilly.¡± Justin chuckled. ¡°Fucking coincidence, right?¡±

 [7]

    Although a bit tense, Giselle couldn¡¯t back out of the event that she had to apany Justin to attend. Apart from the special invitation, she also needed to socialize with people who were much different from the people she had met in the past. How could she not? Giselle never expected to set foot in such a luxurious ce.


    ¡°Are you kidding me? This is¡­ so amazing, Tu-oke, Justin.¡± Giselle smiled broadly but her eyes couldn¡¯t contain her amazement and awe as she got out of Justin¡¯s ck Lexus. Right in front of the building were sparkling crystal chandeliers hanging from the main lobby.


    ¡°Stay close to me and hide your excitement.¡± Justinughed. He wasn¡¯tughing at Giselle¡¯s tant overreaction. Giselle was just expressing what was in her heart. Her awe, and what she had never imagined in her life, could now happen easily.


    Having managed to get the girl out of what he thought was a very bad ce, as well as draining almost a quarter of his future savings, but Justin had no regrets. In fact, he regrets that he hesitated at the time. He spent two billion to get Giselle out of there. Actually, Justin was a bit surprised by the amount Jilly had proposed,plete with interest and a running loan calction because Giselle had used the snake woman¡¯s money to breathe life into her mother in the hospital.


    What Jilly said was true, but the cost? It¡¯s not that expensive! Jilly is too much! But no matter, Justin had faith in her determination. He was determined and sure that, in the future, Giselle¡¯s name would dominate the glory years in SEO.


    How could I not. White Bird, which Giselle performed on the main stage, sessfully brought Justin¡¯s name to the throne of the number one designer in his country. Not to mention the sales of the collection that season, which was sold out. There was even a waiting list of five hundred pieces with different types and models. It was a remarkable achievement for a young designer who had just entered the world of excitement.


    At the very least, the money Justin spent was returned many times over and he got a long-term investment; Giselle as one of the main SEO models.


    ¡°But this is allpletely unbelievable to me, Justin,¡± Giselle said in a half-whisper. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to enter this building.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll being to more events like this.¡± Justin chuckled. ¡°Remember what Nico said; hide your true expression. Keep that sweet, thin, seductive smile. You¡¯re the incarnation of the Goddess of Beauty who doesn¡¯t want to go back to where she came from.¡±


    ¡°Are you daydreaming?¡± asked Justin, breaking the silence between them. When they were leaving the parking lot, Giselle was still talking. But as time went on, her voice was drowned out and only apanied by the sound of musicing out of the audio of the car Justin was driving. ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to worry. Andrew and Jilly are no big deal.¡± Justin guessed that Giselle¡¯s fussiness had disappeared because of those two names.


    ¡°I know,¡± Giselle said immediately, her smile returning, albeit faintly. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll fulfill your promise. But¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing but fulfillment of promises, Giselle. That¡¯s how I fulfill all my words to you.¡±


    From the side, the man who focused on the steering wheel looked stunning. For Giselle, no man could havee into her life like this. I don¡¯t know what made God be kind enough to give her the fate of meeting Justin, but she often wondered, was there any goodness in her that was so great that she was rewarded with meeting Justin? As long as she remembers what has happened in her life, whether she did it intentionally or not, there hasn¡¯t been a single memory of a great favor done.


    Except for taking loving care of her mother. asionally she reads old stories that are her mother¡¯s collection at home. Giselle never forgot the way her mother cared for her collection of old books, which turned out to be given to her by the man she loved the most. She said, ¡°No matter how small a gift from the people we love, it will mean a lot in life, Nami.¡±


    Remembering the figure of her mother made her heart suddenly ache. Suddenly, she also longed to meet the middle-aged woman even though she was blocked by ss.


    ¡°You just need to do your best tonight.¡± Justin spoke again, turning slightly to the silent passenger. But as soon as he saw that the other person was just silent with a deeply downcast face, Justin felt something was off. ¡°Are you¡­ okay?¡±


    Giselle quickly wiped the corners of her eyes that were suddenly wet. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Justin. I just thought of my mom.¡±


    Justin¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°How can you think of your mom when we¡¯re talking about Jilly and Andrew?¡± He really didn¡¯t expect Giselle¡¯s thoughts to branch out so quickly and go to a ce he didn¡¯t expect.


    The girl chuckled atst. ¡°You said it yourself, right, I don¡¯t need to worry about those two. You can handle them easily. Right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Justin said immediately. ¡°Then why are you moody?¡±


    ¡°I thought of my mother.¡± Giselle smiled sadly. ¡°When all I wanted to do was show her, she left me forever.¡±


    Justin was silent.


    ¡°I only got to show off how the news about me after the show was sessful. Not about the results I started to enjoy little by little.¡± Giselle endured the tightness in her chest that was bing increasingly painful. She gripped her handbag tightly. ¡°The doctor said the cure rate was sixty percent. But¡­ but why?¡±


    Giselle received a gentle rub on the top of her head.


    ¡°I hope you can hold back your tears, Giselle. We¡¯re almost there. And if you keep questioning why and wherefore, then you don¡¯t believe that if God takes away an important part of our lives, He¡¯s preparing a much better recement. We just need to wait to be reunited.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes blinked excitedly.


    ¡°On vacation next week, I¡¯ll apany you to visit your mother¡¯s grave. I also want to visit someone at the same ce.¡±


    Justin¡¯s smile made Giselle realize what he had just said. A much better recement? A Justin Stokcholm for life, right?


    ***


    Jilly walked with the man she had been eyeing for a long time. Luckily, when he came to visit the club, she was able to get to know him. And their rtionship blossomed until now, although it was limited to ending up in bed but at least, Jilly had the opportunity to attend a party as grand as tonight.


    ¡°Thank you for bringing me here, sir.¡± Jilly smiled as sweet as honey.


    While Andrew only gave her a quick nce and grinned meaningfully. ¡°Sickening party for me actually.¡±


    ¡°But everything thates in isn¡¯t rted to your business? I know exactly how you¡¯re doing in business, which I think is fun.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°You think so?¡±


    Jilly nodded without hesitation. ¡°Especially to the point of being able to uncover facts about some of the most famous names in this country, right?¡±


    The man nced at the woman in the dark purple dress. From the side of her face, Andrew admitted that Jilly Adams was a beautiful woman with a perfect dose of sexy. Although the owner of the club was on the edge of town, the club was well known to many people especially since there were special performances as a ce to feast the eyes.


    Unfortunately¡­ the star is no longer in the show. Although reced with a new girl who was equally skilled and popr, for Andrew the show¡¯s appeal was the masked girl. Who he had enjoyed performing with several times. And he wanted to have a long talk with the masked girl but time was tight.


    And now there was no chance for Andrew to meet the masked girl. Jilly says the star has left the stage. Choosing a sunlit world over the equally beautiful moon.


    ¡°You seem to be good at igniting favorable conditions.¡±


    Jilly smiled widely. ¡°You know the right person.¡± She moved closer to Andrew who was now the center of attention. Certainly of the many women in the room where the event was taking ce. Most of them were also watching Jilly.


    Perhaps for all of them, Jilly was lucky to be with a man who was coveted not only for his good looks, but also for what Andrew had; poprity.


    ¡°I just found out the owner of Coge Media is that handsome!¡±


    ¡°Oh my God! She¡¯s ncing at me.¡±


    ¡°lucky woman who can get close to Mr. Andrew.¡±


    And there were many more whispers that Jilly could clearly hear. Which were voiced as their feet stepped through several crowds of women. asionally, Jilly stopped to apany Andrew who was greeting his business partner in a friendly manner. At least this was an advantage for Jilly. She had to find a new foothold before being dumped for boredom by Andrew.


    ¡°Ah¡­ it¡¯s Giselle!¡±


    ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°Over there!¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­ she really came! I thought there was still a photo shoot scheduled in Yazeran. I met her at the airport.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Andrew ignored all the noise around him. He chooses to focus on talking to one of his business partners but¡­


    ¡°Are you looking for the masked girl?¡± asked Jilly in a half-whisper.


    From the tail of Andrew¡¯s eyes, you can see that Jilly is shing a smile that has a certain meaning. It made Andrew¡¯s eyebrows seem toe together. ¡°Meaning?¡±


    ¡°Nami. You¡¯re looking for Nami, right?¡±


    Obviously that remark made Andrew straighten his back. ¡°Where is she?¡±


    ¡°The new center of attention ising.¡±


    At the same time, Andrew met the gaze of the girl who had just entered the room. Her smile was still the same as he remembered even though¡­ she wasn¡¯t wearing a ck mask. Although it was camouged by the dim club lights every time Andrew enjoyed the girl¡¯s performance, his instinct as a man was sure; she was the girl he was looking for.


    But all the fun suddenly vanished. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that Giselle is¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Jilly giggled. ¡°We were all fooled, weren¡¯t we?¡±

 [8]

    Andrew smiled slightly. He stepped over to the beautiful girl who was the center of his attention right now. She was sitting alone enjoying her wine, looking up at the sky from therge window on the second floor. Perhaps she was deliberately avoiding the crowd because she must have been exhausted from dealing with so many people.


    ¡°Am I interrupting?¡± asked Andrew with a wide grin. Especially when Giselle turned to him and stared at his presence with an intense look. There was no way Giselle wouldn¡¯t recognize him especially since Andrew wasn¡¯t just a regr visitor at the club.


    ¡°No, sir,¡± Giselle said with a smile.


    The girl¡¯s eyes no longer gazed intently, but tried for once to act normal even though Andrew was sure that her presence here had taken him by surprise.


    ¡°Congrattions on being chosen as The Bungos¡¯ brand ambassador. You know, it¡¯s hard to earn Helena¡¯s trust.¡±


    ¡°You know him?¡± asked Giselle trying to be as calm as possible. Don¡¯t ask her how her heart was doing, because from the moment she noticed the man near her, she waspletely taken aback. Andrew, who Justin had warned her about, was a frequent visitor to a ce Giselle didn¡¯t want to remember.


    How can Giselle forget the guests who are quite loyal every time she performs? It can¡¯t be that easy, right? On the one hand, she needs the money. On the other hand, she feels disgusted and dirty for using the money to support her dying family.


    If it wasn¡¯t Andrew the guest, perhaps Giselle could still behave normally. She would have just talked as much as she needed to without worrying too much. But the situation she faced was not as simple as she thought.


    ¡°Of course. Who doesn¡¯t know Helena?¡± Andrewughed. He gently shook the ss he had been carrying. In one gulp, the liquid contents of the ss disappeared down his throat. He chuckled softly. ¡°Not bad. The host knows how to entertain guests well.¡±


    Giselle responded with a smile. Don¡¯t let her misspeak and end up in silence. She realized what would happen if her past was revealed. Not only would she be devastated, but Justin would be too. And she didn¡¯t want that to happen. Before she was truly at the top and could influence many people to secure her position, Giselle had to be careful where she stepped.


    ¡°Is something bothering you?¡± asked Andrew in a very casual tone.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Giselle took a small sip of her wine. ¡°It¡¯s nice to see you here, sir. I think I should return to the banquet. My solitary time is over.¡±


    Andrew smiled slightly. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Giselle looked at Andrew with a frown between her brows. ¡°Why am I not sure? I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no way you¡¯re forgetting me, right, Nami?¡±


    The girl froze. Her grip on the ss, which still had some wine left in it, tightened. Her body could not react much because the name had already been said. Even Andrew, who knew her very well even though Giselle had been wearing a mask during her time at the club. No, she didn¡¯t. It must have been Jilly who said who she was.


    Her other hand clenched into a tight fist at the thought. There was no way Andrew would recognize her that easily in a ce like this unless someone leaked her identity. And the only person who could do such a rubbish thing was Jilly Adams.


    ¡°You¡¯ll regret it, Nami.¡± Jilly growled in annoyance. ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for much. It¡¯s only a fraction of what you earn now, right? Don¡¯t ever forget the favors I used to give you, Nami!¡±


    Before Giselle left Jilly at the steakhouse that night, she smiled very slightly. Giving her beautiful hair a gentle shake, she said, ¡°I know how much Justin has spent on you. Not to mention your requests that I thought were ridiculous but Justin fulfilled. And don¡¯t you ever forget, this is the third time you¡¯vee to me just to fulfill your wishes. If I file an extortion report, you could be charged with multiple counts, Jilly.¡±


    Jilly¡¯s face was bright red. Her jaw tightened with an unepting look directed at Giselle who had already stood up from her chair. Preparing to leave her who was already angry at the rejection of her request for money.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let my boss know what you did to me. Like right now for example. Even though you seem nice and don¡¯t want to linger on the matter, but I think the anger of someone who is quite economical in talking to strangers, can¡¯t it be very scary?¡±


    Is this what Jilly did in retaliation for her recent rejection? Damn it! What a dirty way to go about it. But considering he¡¯s rted to Jilly, isn¡¯t there never a sacred path?


    ¡°Looking at your expression now, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve remembered you.¡± Andrew chuckled. He put his hands in his pockets and began to step closer. At the girl who seemed to be wide-eyed as that step further eroded the distance between them.


    The evening breeze that apanied their closeness was lulling. Until Andrew felt that the girl could no longer move ¨C he had cornered Giselle on this side of the open window but on the outside. During his time as a guest at the girl¡¯s frequent performances that had captivated him, Andrew could only be content to stare at her beautiful masked face. Growling in annoyance that he wasn¡¯t the only one enjoying the seductively beautiful curvy body on stage.


    He wanted to be angry but he didn¡¯t have the right. He wanted to drag the girl away and lock her up for himself but there was no way. Moreover, he was still at the pioneering point, not an heir like most of hispetitors in the business world. Don¡¯t let it all fall apart because of her rash actions.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Giselle said in a firm tone. Using her free hand, she restrained Andrew¡¯s movements as he continued to push her. ¡°Please¡­ keep your limits.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s smile was obvious. He wanted tough at what he had just said but seeing Giselle¡¯s look of annoyance and irritation, Andrew decided to stop. ¡°I haven¡¯t forgotten your closeness with many men there.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes were firmly closed. ¡°What do you want, sir?¡±


    Andrew wet his lips. He supported Giselle with one arm, tilting his face to stare at the girl who still ruled his heart. No. It was no longer possession, but it was enough to make him lose his sanity.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± she said simply. ¡°I just want us to have bettermunication than before.¡±


    Although the distance between them was already so thin, Giselle couldn¡¯t just let go. There were many thoughts that gued her about Andrew¡¯s intentions for her. ¡°What kind ofmunication do you want?¡±


    Again, Andrew¡¯s faint smile appeared. His eyes, which were as dark as the night, intended to drown Giselle even deeper. But Giselle seemed to know how to withstand the temptation of a man like Andrew. Ah¡­ wasn¡¯t this girl trained to be able to continue standing with a seductive face among many men who approached? Giselle¡¯s magenta-colored fingers usually traced the faces of the visitors one by one.


    And the touching ended with the money tucked into the clothes Giselle was wearing. I don¡¯t know how much but it¡¯s definitely not a small amount.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Um¡­ maybe ask how each other are doing?¡± Andrew brought his face closer. Intentionally. Without needing to touch Giselle, using his warm breath he gave one puff right on Giselle¡¯s ear lobe. ¡°If you agree, I have a good offer for you.¡±


    Doesn¡¯t Andrew know that Giselle is really nervous and scared? Not because she¡¯s afraid of her body being touched without permission by the man near her, but about what she¡¯s trying so hard to cover up.


    ¡°Come back.¡± Andrew smiled broadly as he patted Giselle¡¯s shoulder lightly. The distance between them widened again. That of course made Giselle sigh in relief and it was funny to see the girl¡¯s face turn bright red. Certainly not because of blushing but there was annoyance and anger being held back. And Andrew understood this very fortunate situation.


    When else could he be close to Giselle?


    ¡°You must have your manager waiting for you?¡±


    Andrew¡¯s question made Giselle look up and give him a pointed look.


    ¡°Hey-hey,¡± Andrewughed. ¡°Don¡¯t put on such a scary face although I admit, it¡¯s very tempting.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s hands were clenched again. The tip of her tongue was eager to curse a lot. But the voice of someone calling out to her, made her undo her recent intentions.


    ¡°Giselle!¡±


    Thank God! Brina could at least get her out of this annoying encounter! Giselle put on a big smile and waved excitedly. Which was immediately met with a confused frown from Brina.


    ¡°Where have you been? Justin was worried about you.¡± Brina approached and seemed to understand the situation Giselle was in. ¡°Next time, you should be with me. Don¡¯t let there be any unpleasant events for you to remember.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± She took Brina¡¯s hand immediately. ¡°Excuse us, sir.¡±


    ¡°If you change your mind, I¡¯ll be waiting for you at the office. My offer is very attractive.¡±


    Giselle would never listen to those words. What for? There was no point. She¡¯d better get out of this ce. Or at least, she wouldn¡¯t want to stay away from Justin no matter what. It¡¯s not impossible that something like this won¡¯t happen to her again in the future, right?

 [9]

    ¡°Brina said someone was meeting you?¡± asked Justin as the Jaguar he was driving pulled out of the main lobby of the banquet hall. As usual, there was nothing special. It was just a gathering of the elite who wrapped their conversations in business. There was also a lot of cooperation that benefited them or a few people.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Giselle sighed softly. Her eyes were fixed on the road where not too many vehicles were passing by. She could not get rid of the thought and figure of Andrew who approached her earlier.


    ¡°What did he say?¡± Justin tried to be as calm as possible. Ever since Giselle asked permission to pull over, Justin hadn¡¯t let his guard down. Although Justin had many discussions with his colleagues regarding his business; including the property that could be used as a ce to open a new branch of his boutique. Justin¡¯s tail never let go of Giselle.


    Especially when Giselle was enjoying wine taken from one of the waiters, the model chose to iste herself, indicating that she did not want any disturbances. Then the man came over. It made Justin want to get closer and make sure Giselle wasfortable talking. Because the news he got from his trusted informant was not just a figment of his imagination.


    Andrew Kingston arrived with Jilly Adams. Not only does Andrew have an important role to y when ites to raising a name, but he can also be the sharpest knife in the hand and the highest pit to bring Giselle down. Although Justin can silence him, it¡¯s not easy considering the name Kingston that the man bears.


    The most dangerous is Jilly Adams. Little did Justin know that the beautiful woman often vited what he had stipted. Including meeting Giselle without her knowledge and imposing her will on several requests which she thought could be considered as ckmail.


    ¡°He knew who I was before.¡± Giselle coughed softly. She took a deep breath, filling every cavity of her chest with oxygen. It gave her peace of mind even though it was not that easy to realize. Her hands began to squeeze the hem of her dress. Her eyes closed, which became more and more submissive.


    Then without realizing it, her shoulders shook softly. Sobbing. The more it was heard, the more pain greeted the ears, especially for Justin.


    ¡°Hey, why are you crying?¡± asked Justin as he gently stroked Giselle¡¯s flowing hair. asionally rubbing the back of her shoulders to calm her down.


    Justin let Giselle let her emotions out for a while. Usually, Giselle was always talking, whether she was annoyed, upset, angry, sad, or happy. In fact, if Justin is to be honest, Giselle is not someone who can hide something behind her smile. Maybe Giselle is used to the mastery of expression by now. But in Justin¡¯s eyes, the man knows when Giselle changes her mood.


    And now, Giselle¡¯s choice was to remain silent while shedding tears. This meant that not only was she worried, but fear was starting to creep up on her, and that alone made Justin unhappy.


    ¡°Are you scared?¡± Justin asked cautiously.


    Slowly, Giselle nodded.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about unnecessary things. I¡¯m sure you can still control it, Giselle. Just focus on your umted work. The busier you keep yourself, and the more activities you have to do, the triviality of such cheap threats won¡¯t stay in your brain for long.¡±


    Giselle was silent.


    ¡°Although Andrew didn¡¯t use his family¡¯s power to build The Coge, Kingston is still Kingston. I can¡¯t deny that his influence is considerable.¡±


    The girl turned her head and looked at Justin for a long time. She was even more burdened by the fact that Justin could talk like that so lightly. While she?


    ¡°I haven¡¯t forgotten what Jilly said with that sly smile when I said goodbye for thest time at the club,¡± Giselle said softly. Her eyes felt hot and ready to burst into tears but she tried to hold them back as best she could. She let out a long sigh when she felt she could control herself. ¡°He told me that when I¡¯m at my highest point I can fall over without getting up because of my dark past. So I was told not to dream too high.¡±


    The remark was clearlyughed off by Justin. It was as if the woman who told Giselle was right in front of him. Complete with her speaking style ¨C hands crossed, cigarette between her fingers, and a condescending and cynical look in her eyes. But only when looking at Giselle. Everything else? That¡¯s normal.


    ¡°And you¡¯re afraid of what he said happening?¡±


    Giselle bit her lower lip. Her emotions were running high. She squeezed the hem of her dress even harder. Her palms even felt wet.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be weak just because the drizzle is starting to beat you down, Giselle. You¡¯ve been through more storms than this, right? If you¡¯re used to facing storms, the drizzle won¡¯t be able to knock you down.¡±


    The girl turned to the man sitting quietly beside her. His hands, which were free to control the steering wheel, were ced on the lip of the window. Letting the night breeze into the cabin and worse, it looked like Justin had deliberately opened the hood of his luxury car.


    The iing wind was quiterge. It made Giselle close her eyes immediately in order to adjust to the gusts that soon hit her.


    ¡°I also have my own concerns with their closeness. I can do whatever it takes to protect the people under my influence. But in a moment of weakness? They can take advantage of it very well and you are¡­ very vulnerable to being weakened.¡±


    Giselle, who was still staring at Justin, could only frown. ¡°Are you doubting my determination?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Justin replied briefly.


    ¡°You¡¯re too much.¡± She huffed as she pursed her lips. ¡°Can¡¯t be too honest?¡±


    At least tonight, Giselle¡¯s smile returned. At the very least, what Justin saw was an unmasked smile andughter. At the very least, Justin could rest easy tonight. He could think of ways to keep Giselle and her past life at bay.


    For now Giselle is an important asset to SEO. No. She¡¯s one of the founders who sessfully brought what Justin wanted to the public. His goal is that there will be four people who are the main pirs to keep SEO moving forward. Being a trensetter in the country, getting more famous year after year and being trusted by several production houses to work together.


    Before they knew it, the car Justin was driving had arrived at the basement of the apartment where Giselle lived. Before she could leave him alone in the car, Justin said. ¡°Sleep well, you¡¯re going to have a long day tomorrow, right? I told Irena yourtest schedule. It¡¯s not far from the city center, but you still need to be prepared.¡±


    Nothing pleases Giselle more than when Justin seems like the most important person in her life. Don¡¯t me Giselle if she getsfortable and used to Justin¡¯s attitude towards her. It¡¯s too sweet and too good to miss.


    God, is it okay if I fall in love with him?


    ***


    ¡°Morning, Giselle,¡± Brina greeted her kindly. Too friendly, in fact.


    Giselle, who had just opened the bedroom door, still wearing her knee-length sleeping pajamas, only frowned. She gently rubbed her eyes that still felt sticky. And her body that still felt stiff to move. She should still be curled up under the nket, right?


    What time is it? Isn¡¯t he there¡­ Morning flight!!!


    ¡°You didn¡¯t wake me up?!¡± screeched Giselle in a panic. She hurriedly went back into the room. Preparing herself without caring if Brina looked at her quizzically. Even the bouquet of red roses in her assistant¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Giselle!¡± called Brina once she realized that the stupid girl had forgotten that her flight was in the afternoon. She hade this morning to apany Giselle-forcing her to exercise, of course. At least around the apartment¡¯s garden twenty times.


    Brina hurried over to the girl who seemed to be grumbling at her stupidity for waking upte. At the doorway, all Brina could do was shake her head in surprise. ¡°You¡¯re really forgetful or careless, huh?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s movement to pick up one of the shirts she was going to wear to her next appointment stopped. Her eyes blinked in surprise but then, back to grumbling. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to help me, I can prepare myself. My suitcase is ready!¡±


    ¡°Your flight is scheduled for this afternoon.¡±


    Giselle was stunned, and then as if she had been shocked by several volts of electricity, she came to her senses. ¡°Oh my!¡± she tapped her forehead rather roughly. ¡°It¡¯s you!¡± Giselle immediately changed her course. Attacking Brina of course!


    Which made Brina re in disbelief. ¡°Don¡¯t do that to me, Giselle!¡±


    But Giselle would not stop. She chased after Brina, who ran away. Her screams soon filled the spacious apartment. Even Giselleughed as she continued to grab Brina to get within her reach. Until the assistant was cornered on the sofa, shielding herself from Giselle¡¯s tickling attacks.


    Giselle is still the nosy Giselle.


    ¡°GISELLE!!!¡± Brina shouted withughter.


    ¡°You should be punished! You¡¯re too much!¡± Giselle giggled but continued to attack Brina with her hands aimed at the spots that made Brina squeal with delight.


    Satisfied, with a gasp and a sweaty forehead, Giselle unleashed her punishment. The victim; Brina, red fiercely at her but with a big smile. Feeling grateful, Giselle was able to cheer up again.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get a drink first,¡± Giselle said as she got up from her seat. She felt like she needed a drink to quench her thirst after ying a prank on Brina. As she walked towards the kitchen, a bouquet of flowers ced on the table caught her eye.


    ¡°How thoughtful of you to bring me flowers, Brina,¡± Giselle said with a chuckle.


    ¡°It¡¯s delicious.¡± Brina chuckled. ¡°I also wondered who that jobless guy was who sent you flowers so early.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. If it wasn¡¯t Brina who gave it to her, then who?This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°There¡¯s a card tucked in there. I haven¡¯t had a chance to read it yet.¡± Brina got up from her seat. She walked over to Giselle who looked transfixed after seeing the card she had mentioned earlier.


    ¡®Morning, Nami.


    Red is beautiful, right?¡¯


    Your fans; AK_

 [10]

    The photographer this time, stared at his shot with a look of frustration. He had to massage his temples to get rid of the things that still filled his eyes. From the tail of his eyes, he nced at Giselle who was sitting with a sour face. Her hands were crossed, her eyes shing with emotion, but not at today¡¯s activities. There must be something bothering her. But what?


    Nico let out a long sigh. It was better to talk to Giselle since she was the one who was asked to be on the front cover of the magazine that would be published in two weeks. ¡°Giselle,¡± he called as he pulled up a chair.


    Feeling called out by her coworker, Giselle quickly discarded this unpleasant feeling. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I want to talk.¡±


    Giselle blinked in surprise but then, her eyes fell on the camera Nico was carrying. And because of that too, Giselle looked guilty. ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you realize your mistake?¡± Nico asked softly.


    ¡°I guess.¡± Giselle bit her lower lip. ¡°I really feel guilty for causing you trouble.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Nico smiled slightly. ¡°Yeah¡­ you know, if we start all over again, it¡¯ll be a waste of time today. Tomorrow, you still have another schedule, right?¡±


    Giselle looked down even deeper.


    ¡°I need you to concentrate this time. I¡¯m repeating myself in some parts. I need your uniqueness for this magazine. You should feel lucky that I was asked to direct the camera. What if the people from their magazines had stepped in and the result was like this?¡±


    Giselle is increasingly guilt-ridden.


    Nico didn¡¯t have the heart. Knowing Giselle since a few months ago, practicing so hard so that Justin¡¯s performance would be sessful and without any obstacles, there were also rarely anyints about the work he was doing. Despite being busy, there had never been aint from Giselle¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Is there a problem?¡± she asked in a sympathetic tone.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Giselle smiled broadly. ¡°It was my fault just now. I shouldn¡¯t have brought personal matters into work.¡±


    Nico was still staring intently at Giselle. Which made the girl look awkward and was covered with a crispugh. Pretend. Nico knew that.


    ¡°Come on¡­ which part should I repeat? I¡¯m ready. I won¡¯t be bothered anymore.¡± She stood up and fixed her dress. Calling Brina to tidy up her appearance a little from make-up to hairdo.


    Although Giselle doesn¡¯t have much to worry about, still, for this reshoot she doesn¡¯t want to make many parties lose money. Especially Nico who gave her a warning earlier. After all, why should Giselle feel annoyed and irritated?


    Tsk!


    It must be because of the bouquet of flowers and the card tucked in there. How could that man know her residence? But if Giselle thought about it, wouldn¡¯t it be easy to get information about her now? Especially since Giselle knew who Andrew was in this intersecting world of work?


    ¡°Damn,¡± he grumbled softly.


    Which remark was heard by Brina. The woman looked at Giselle with astonishment. ¡°You¡­ have a problem?¡±


    Giselle quickly covered it up with a big grin. ¡°What am I piling up trouble for?¡± she immediately let out augh that sounded strange. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± She prepared to go to the ce specified by Nico. This time there would be no mistakes.


    He has be one with this job. Don¡¯t let the kind angels who are present in his life be disappointed.


    ¡°That man is just a passing thought. He won¡¯t bother me,¡± Giselle said determinedly.


    It took an hour for Giselle to pose the way Nico wanted her to. This time, Nico¡¯s smile was wide. The result was exactly what he wanted and Nico was confident that Giselle¡¯s face, which would appear in the magazine, would be stunning and impressed.


    Not to mention the content around the interview that has already been conducted. Giselle Namiozuka was indeed asked to fill in one of the spaces regarding her impression of the fashion world that is currently flourishing.


    The sweat dots on Giselle¡¯s forehead, she was not too concerned about. The heat that asionally hit her body, too, she didn¡¯t care much about. Giselle didn¡¯t want any repetition. She would be ashamed if she disappointed Nico.


    ¡°Well, this is the new Giselle I know.¡± Nicoughed with satisfaction. This afternoon¡¯s photoshoot ended with a sigh of relief. He checked histest photos several times and could not shake his excitement. ¡°You really did look your best.¡±


    Giselle immediately epted the water bottle Brina gave her. The heat around the location quickly made her thirste. A few sips were able to quench it although not entirely because she needed to be in a cooler ce. Her face looked flushed but really, she was happy and satisfied that Nico was cheerful again with his photos.


    This means that the hard work of getting rid of the bully in Giselle¡¯s head is working. Don¡¯t think it¡¯s just the flowers she¡¯s afraid of, but what Andrew could do if he missteps.


    ¡°I apologize for the mistake earlier. For tomorrow¡¯s shoot, I¡¯ll make sure there will be no more Giselle acting strangely,¡± he said with a big smile.


    This was greeted withughter from Nico. He said, ¡°I¡¯m d you can sort out what¡¯s professional and what¡¯s not. Justin put you on a lot of schedules for a reason, Giselle. I know, you must be exhausted. But you know, the more hours you put in, the better you¡¯ll be at managing your expressions and emphasizing each pose. Even the smallest angles should be able to be adjusted by the photographers in your team.¡±


    Giselle nodded in understanding.


    ¡°You and Brina better rest inside. Justin will be here soon.¡±


    Brina immediately grabbed Giselle. Carrying the model¡¯s small bag, she asked some staff to tidy up the equipment she had been using.


    ¡°No chocte for me, Brina?¡± asked Giselle without any guilt.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Come on,¡± Giselle whined urgently. ¡°I need to improve my mood.¡±


    Brina remained silent as she continued to walk.


    ¡°My weight is still normal, Brina. And the photo shoot for Miss World isn¡¯t in two weeks anyway? I¡¯m sure my weight is fine.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not just another photo shoot. You need a lot of experience and knowledge to qualify. Just by following it, anyone can,¡± Brina chuckled as she pushed open the door to the room they were in during the shoot. More privacy and definitely more freedom for Giselle to do anything in there.


    ¡°I need to learn a lot of general knowledge, don¡¯t I?¡± asked Giselle who had taken her hand off Brina. She chose to sit on a long chair and leaned backfortably. The cooling air that began to hit her body felt cool and lulling. ¡°We don¡¯t have any more photo shoots this afternoon, right?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Brina smiled faintly. ¡°But there¡¯s a dinner invitation from the Ambassador. You shoulde with Justin.¡±


    ¡°No wonder before we took off yesterday, she told me to bring a ck dress. Is the dresscode a ck dress?¡±


    Brina shook her head immediately. ¡°Not just a ck dress. But a masquerade ball.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Dinner or what is the event?¡±


    ¡°The ambassador likes medieval parties. The ck dress you brought must have been an ordinary style, right?¡±


    Giselle frowned.


    ¡°I checked and it seems old-fashioned, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Random! I got it from the Hush on Girl brand. You know, that dress that was all the ragest year.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Brina said with a light wag. ¡°It¡¯s pretty and I think it¡¯s perfect for you. But this party isn¡¯t just a party. From what I hear, the ambassador wants to announce his son¡¯s wedding, which will take ce in Dubai.¡±


    Giselle was bbergasted. ¡°Dubai?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Wow! An impossible dream for me to achieve it seems. Getting married in Dubai is something I never imagined in my life but I want it.¡±


    Brinaughed. It was so exciting. Making Giselle frown. ¡°You have a penchant forughing at other people, Brina!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not it,¡± Brina said, holding her stomach. She tried to restrain herself fromughing too much. ¡°Getting married in Dubai is possible if you have the right partner. For example, a Saudi prince who owns a lot of oil refineries.¡±


    Giselle frowned even more. She wanted to reply to Brina¡¯s words by throwing a sofa cushion, but she decided against it when someone knocked on her door. Giselle thought Justin was already there. Just to take her to the edge of the city that was interesting enough to walk around.


    It¡¯s not.


    When Giselle opened the door, the figure she had met a few nights ago was there. Standing with a faint smile containing a lot of smugness.


    ¡°Hi, Nami. We meet again.¡±

 [11]

    Giselle ate the soup, which contained mostly seafood, with a wary look. Although she admits, the choice of restaurant this time is quite private. No one bothered her with curious and adoring stares like when she ate in public. And because of that, Giselle chose a restaurant that has a rather private ce. Not arrogant because her name is getting famous all over the country. oh¡­ not at all.


    Giselle has never thought of bragging about what she has now. She is still far from the pinnacle of a famous model¡¯s career. She was just trying out a whole new world and coincidentally, Justin¡¯s cold hands led her to sess.


    He just wanted that in the little time he had to enjoy his meal, no one would disturb him. Because after she eats, there is another schedule waiting. Sometimes it¡¯s moremon for Giselle to eat at the shoot location to save time. Or even, in the car while listening to Brina deliver the results of the briefing before the shoot takes ce.


    ¡°You should try the grilled squid at this restaurant,¡± Andrew said with a meaningful smile.


    ¡°No need.¡± Giselle chose to put on her best smile instead. ¡°I¡¯ve been to-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ve already booked.¡± Andrew chuckled. ¡°After all, a model¡¯s job requires a lot of energy, right? Why do they have to eat less?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s hands were clenched tightly into fists. Her eyes were gazing intently at her interlocutor. Herst mouthful of the slightly red soup, with a slightly spicy and sour but addictive vor, was the end of her lunch. She did not lie that her stomach was full. Ever since Brina had regted her diet, somehow what Giselle ate gave her more energy. Maybe Brina had calcted everything so that no energy was wasted or became a pile of fat. I don¡¯t know, Giselle just obeyed what Brina said. Because if not, the woman who has the tenderness and patience to deal with Giselle could turn into the scariest bear in her life.


    No, she didn¡¯t. Giselle didn¡¯t want to take that risk.


    ¡°We¡¯re not reducing portions, but counting calories.¡± Giselle spoke up atst, because the other person was supporting her face with his hands. Staring at her more intently than before. And Giselle felt ufortable.


    ¡°Besides the invitation to dine together, is there any other purpose, sir?¡± asked Giselle as she reached for her drinking ss. Although the urge to chug it down was there, but you know, the look in her eyes was used to make a judgment and raise awareness of Andrew.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°You received my bouquet of flowers, right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re like a stalker,¡± Giselle said openly.


    This was met with a bigugh from Andrew. ¡°You know the power of having influence? Knowing where you live is a piece of cake.¡±


    ¡°But I object to such a delivery, sir.¡± Giselle said while carving a smile as wide as possible. ¡°You took so much trouble when I don¡¯t like flowers. Especially roses.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Andrew was quite surprised by Giselle¡¯s confession just now. The girl¡¯s eyes were as dark as night. They were sharp and had a special magic that made him bewitched. Ever since they first met, it felt like Andrew couldn¡¯t look anywhere else but at Giselle. Making sure he witnessed every performance with his own eyes.


    Sometimes he wants Giselle to stay with him all night but unfortunately, aside from the life he can¡¯t live freely, Giselle is also not easy to receive just any guest. There are some restrictions that prevent Andrew from acting out. Or his extended family would drag him home and make him live a life he didn¡¯t like.


    As the old saying goes, enjoying you from a distance is more than enough as long as you always smile happily.


    Wow! Sounds romantic, right? But that¡¯s how Andrew feels about Giselle.


    So now, he was overjoyed to see the girl he adored to death again. She also felt that she wanted to make Giselle not stay away from her anymore, especially since the current situation made it possible for Andrew to do so. Jilly had a lot to say about Giselle just before leaving the club.


    ¡°I think a girl likes red roses.¡± Andrew straightened his seat. ¡°I don¡¯t know much about you, apparently. In that case,¡± he leaned slightly towards Giselle who looked calm. however, Giselle¡¯s beady eyes seemed to bulge.


    Meaning¡­ what he did was quite a surprise for the model. Andrew couldn¡¯t help butugh but really, seeing Giselle¡¯s face from this close was something he never thought was possible.


    ¡°If I know anything you like, don¡¯t ever refuse it.¡± Andrew sat back and rxed. Letting Giselle catch her breath which seemed to be roaring with annoyance. Even those dark eyes were also staring at him with a determined gaze. Ready for battle. Gosh, how adorable was Giselle like this in front of him.


    Normally, as long as Andrew knew who Giselle was on stage, ah¡­ not Giselle. It¡¯s Nami. That¡¯s right. The Nami he knew, her gaze was so seductive. It broke down the minds and faith of many men around her. Not to mention the way she twisted every limb. It really makes anyone who sees, burn with desire until they can¡¯t control it anymore.


    ¡°What is your purpose exactly?¡± asked Giselle quietly. But you know, that voice disturbed the man.


    They exchanged nces without wanting to outdo each other. The girl waits for an answer, while the man chooses what words are appropriate. If he said his deepest desire; to take Giselle to his private bed, it would be a massive rejection.


    Giselle is not the Nami she once was. But still, Nami is Giselle. The past cannot be easily removed from the skin of the body owner. Strongly attached, sometimes it is an encouragement sometimes it is a poison that is ready to make the owner¡¯s body severely damaged.


    ¡°From the beginning, I was your fan, Nami. Ah¡­ no. Either Nami or Giselle, it¡¯s all the same to me.¡± Andrew raised his ss. Shaking it lightly, he looked back at Giselle intently. ¡°You¡¯re my idol, Giselle Namiozuka. Is it wrong for me to have such feelings?¡±


    ***


    Justin rubbed the tip of his chin. His eyes seemed to scan in detail every part of Giselle¡¯s body who was now wearing a thigh-length ck dress. Her hairdo was still being fixed by Brina ording to Justin¡¯s instructions.


    ¡°What¡¯s missing?¡± she whispered questioningly.


    ¡°Come on, Justin,¡± Giselle whined, pursing her lips. She couldn¡¯t stand pacing back and forth in front of her boss. I don¡¯t know how many ck dresses she¡¯s worn but none of them have matched Justin¡¯s vision.


    ¡°In a moment, Giselle. You look good in that dress but I feel like something is missing but what?¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°I know what to do.¡± She hurried away from Justin and Brina who looked bbergasted by her behavior. Giselle stayed in the room for a while. Fixing the makeup that she thought stood out but didn¡¯t match the dress she was wearing.


    If only to showcase her seductive side, Giselle is still capable of making it happen. The Giselle known to the general public is a gentle, loving Goddess of Beauty who has a smile that makes people around her happy. Not the sexy, seductive Giselle that she is now.


    ¡°Well, how about it?¡± she asked Giselle as she girded her loins. She had her mask on-reminding her of old memories but what could she say? She couldn¡¯t refuse Justin¡¯s request to apany him. There was one client they wanted to meet. It was rted to a new contract using Giselle as the main model.


    Justin grinned slightly. ¡°You¡¯re the expert.¡± He extended his hand. Greeted with a faint smirk from the marron-red lips. Framing Giselle¡¯s lips a little fuller than usual. Even the make-up on the model¡¯s eyes was made stricter because it was only shown using a mask.


    The hair that was styled earlier was only pinned in the center by Giselle. It was held in ce with a ck pearl-beaded circlet just like the dress she wore. A soft thin chiffon cardigan fell perfectly on Giselle¡¯s shoulders, covering the exposed shoulders.


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Brina stared in awe at Giselle who was now with Justin. ¡°You¡¯re starting to learn the proper way to appear in public.¡±


    Giselle justughed at that remark. She left Brina back at her apartment. Walking side by side with Justin like star-crossed lovers. If that was the reality of Giselle¡¯s life, she might have felt like the luckiest girl ever.


    Justin is a good guy and knows how to treat a woman. What a lucky girl to win his heart. Or¡­ was Giselle trying to get his attention from now on? After all, as long as she¡¯s known Justin, no one has ever approached him personally, right?


    ¡°I heard you hadpany at the photo shoot?¡± asked Justin, frowning in surprise at Giselle¡¯s behavior tonight. Instead of taking his hand ¨C which Giselle was used to ¨C she was now leaningfortably on his arm.


    What a lovely couple, right?


    ¡°Um, yes. Just apanying him to lunch,¡± Giselle said, trying to remain calm. ¡°I don¡¯t know where Andrew¡¯s knowledgees from. He knows my exact unit and the time I break after the shoot.¡±


    ¡°Sounds terrible.¡± Justin could only surrender in the end. After all, he didn¡¯t have any feelings for Giselle. The girl was under his protection. It was his duty to protect Giselle and make herfortable. That was all.


    There was nothing that made her feel like she had to have a special rtionship like a couple between them.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what the purpose is. I¡¯m trying to find out carefully. He knows me so well that he doesn¡¯t even hesitate to make me ufortable around him.¡± Giselle closed her eyes for a moment, trying to normalize the turmoil in her heart.


    ¡°Never ept his presence again if you¡¯re notfortable, Giselle. We¡¯ll never know what his desires are but if they intersect with your past, he¡¯ll have to face me first.¡±This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Giselle¡¯s smile was very thin. This also made her morefortable leaning against Justin. Even so, there was still anxiety in her heart. ¡°What about youter?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± asked Justin as he turned to the girl clinging to him. ¡°What about me?¡±


    ¡°I mean, SEO,¡± Giselle corrected immediately.


    ¡°SEO won¡¯t be affected. I can still bear it if Andrew does something silly. If he goes too far, I¡¯ll meet himter.¡±


    ¡°Is heing?¡± Giselle raised her face slightly. Making them stare at each other intently.


    ¡°I will. The main event of the party is the announcement of the Ambassador¡¯s daughter¡¯s wedding. That¡¯s the kind of news Andrew and his team won¡¯t miss.¡±


    Giselle unconsciously bit her lower lip.


    ¡°If I¡¯m being honest about your performance tonight, you really are a seductive Aphrodite.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s smile could not be covered at all. ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°It depends on the perception of the question you¡¯re asking, Giselle. As a normal man, I would say that I really liked your performance tonight. If need be, we don¡¯t even have to attend the party. There are many reasons I can give the Ambassador.¡±


    Giselle blushed, smiled embarrassedly, and looked down without realizing it.


    ¡°But as a big brother; this sister of hers really makes the heart work extra hard. It takes a bit more supervision to keep you safe in the midst of the males looking for the right queen to apany them into the night.¡±


    The smile just vanished.


    ¡°Come on, the car is ready. You¡¯re okay with wearing a mask for a while, right?¡± asked Justin as he unhooked Giselle¡¯s hand from his arm. ¡°This time, let me talk to Andrew. Don¡¯t let yourself get too far away from me there. Got it, Giselle?¡±

 [12]

    Just like what Justin said before they left; Giselle¡¯s appearance made the guests excited. Almost all eyes were on the elegant and mysterious figure that was never far from Justin. It¡¯s anybody¡¯s guess who the girl who didn¡¯t let go of the SEO owner¡¯s hand was.


    ¡°You are so stunning, Miss Giselle. How do you feel about attending a party like this?¡± one of the reporters asked before they entered the banquet area.


    Giselle just smiled as she said. ¡°I¡¯m sure the same impression you have is an apt description of this grand banquet. Isn¡¯t it?¡±


    The reporter chuckled. ¡°I heard you received a contract with another fashion brand? Doesn¡¯t it matter that you¡¯re one of SEO¡¯s top models?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes stared fixedly at the questioner before she finally giggled. ¡°Do I have to answer? If I say I¡¯m happy to get the contract, won¡¯t I make my boss smile? Or is it actually my boss who has arranged all this so that even famous designers continue to show off their skills?¡±


    I knew it was a joke, especially since the moment Giselle said it, the owner of the brand she was talking about arrived. It was a small reunion but full of business. Giselle knew that, and Justin wasn¡¯t going to waste the opportunity.


    Following the direction of the designated staff, they walked the red carpet together. If Giselle remembered correctly, this was just an ordinary dinner. But it wasmon knowledge that the Ambassador¡¯s invitation was quite a big deal and was only attended by a select group of people. But the news reached all corners as if the party was made to show the social status of some circles in this country.


    Several camera shes were directed at Giselle. The model¡¯s waving hand and faint smile continue to be directed at news seekers. Justin once said that if he appearedter, it would definitely attract a lot of attention. And sure enough, almost everyone surrounded Giselle including asking a lot of questions.


    ¡°Is it like this every year when the Ambassador throws a party?¡± asked Giselle as they entered the lobby area. There were no more members of the media. They were only allowed to wait until the front lobby area, where the banquet itself was as private as possible. Even so, Giselle would not believe it. There were definitely sharp eyes watching their movements in there. If it was interesting, it would be made into a headline that would appear the next day.


    ¡°I see.¡± Justin grinned. ¡°There¡¯s good and bad in parties like this.¡± He returned the friendly greeting that came to him from another corner. One of the wives of an official in the country was a regr at the boutique.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be so beautiful in this mustard blouse.¡± Justin received a warm hug from the middle-aged lung woman who smiled broadly at him.


    But only for a moment. The bright face turned scowling as if thepliment had made the joy evaporate. ¡°You! Can you not praise me too much?¡±


    Justinughed. ¡°Am I wrong? You are beautiful, Mrs. Danisa. You must agree with me, right, Mr. Marvel?¡±


    The man who had been watching the interaction between Justin and his wife could only shake his head in wonder. ¡°Maybe we shouldn¡¯tpliment women. She thinks we never take them seriously.¡±


    The more so, the more Justinughed. ¡°I agree with that.¡± Not wanting to make Giselle just a disy at his side, he slightly pulled her hand closer. ¡°I guess Madam and Sir are familiar with SEO¡¯s gship model? It would be more pleasant for me if Giselle greeted you first.¡±


    Politely, Giselle introduced herself. She also asionally answered any questions from the middle-aged woman who was indeed beautiful in a blouse designed by Justin.


    ¡°I thought she was your girlfriend, Justin.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    The insinuated one justughed. ¡°I still want to keep going and with Giselle, I¡¯m sure I can achieve it together. For that one thing, I haven¡¯t thought about it at all.¡±


    This time Marvel spoke up. ¡°Togetherness can lead to love, Justin. You should understand that.¡±


    ¡°Lovees from habit, doesn¡¯t it?¡± Justin responded with a big smile. ¡°I still have a lot to aplish, Mr. Marvel. Love can be put aside first.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a man of passion and I like that.¡± Danisaughed cheerfully. ¡°I can¡¯t wait for the day you introduce your lover to you, can I, darling?¡±


    Marvel nodded immediately. They walked hand in hand to the banquet area where most of the guests were familiar to Justin. Also Giselle who was beginning to understand her position there. Besides being a rising model, she also had more influence to do some things including promotion. Many people in the business world, whether small orrge, wanted Giselle¡¯s name. They believe that Giselle must have a big name in the future considering the girl¡¯s level of poprity is increasing day by day.


    ¡°Never get away from me, Giselle,¡± Justin whispered as the two men walked away. It also looked like they were meeting some of his acquaintances that Justin couldn¡¯t possibly follow.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Giselle said quietly.


    ¡°Because apparently, I need to talk to Andrew in front of you.¡± Justin took a definite step toward the figure that seemed to be pointing at him. At the same time, the man was with the woman who made Giselle clench her fists tightly.


    Jilly was there with Andrew, walking up to them with an artificially friendly face-Jilly especially. She looked so proud of her aplishment of being able to attend an event like this. If it wasn¡¯t for Andrew¡¯s invitation, surely she could only fantasize about being part of this party.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you toe tonight,¡± Andrew said as he held out his hand for Giselle to greet him. He was looking forward to it. At least having a ss of wine around the¡­ er, balcony of this building was quite pleasant. It¡¯s quiet and there¡¯s nothing to disturb.


    Unfortunately, that was just wishful thinking. Giselle smiled slightly, implying a rejection. Also the words of the man beside Giselle.


    ¡°I guess the owner of The Coge wants an exclusive on my modeling? Is that right, Mr. Andrew?¡±


    Andrew chuckled. He immediately withdrew his hand, which received no response from Giselle. Instead, he felt that Jilly was clutching his hand even tighter. Tsk! This woman. As he had said many times, he was here out of gratitude for the many things Jilly had said about Giselle.


    The rest? Andrew doesn¡¯t need her anymore. Unfortunately, it¡¯s not that easy to get away from Jilly.


    ¡°There¡¯s a lot of talk about Giselle with all the things she¡¯s aplished now.¡± Andrew gave Justin a sharp look. The smile that had been on the corner of his lips was reced with a sly grin. ¡°What about the news about Giselle in the past?¡±


    The words immediately made Giselle look wide-eyed in disbelief. Despite the mask that partially covered her face, it must have been obvious that she was shocked. Her eyes immediately looked at Andrew with emotion. ¡°You-¡±


    Justin immediately held back what Giselle wanted to say. With such a tight grip on his hand, he was sure that Giselle wouldn¡¯t continue. Facing Andrew and the woman who now looked excited because of what Andrew had just said, made Justin feel sick.


    ¡°Long time no see, Mr. Justin,¡± Jilly said, breaking the tense atmosphere between them. ah, no. not breaking, but sharpening to make this pleasant conversation even more tense. she could take advantage of many situations rted to things that could not be easily removed from Giselle. That was who she was.


    An entertainer who sometimes epts wealthy guests for money.


    Ah¡­ it seems like it could be made into a very shocking head line news.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s long enough for us to meet again, Jilly.¡± Justin smiled widely. He nced at the clock in his hand. ¡°You¡¯ve had quite a night here. How¡¯s your club doing?¡±


    Jilly chuckled. ¡°You want to visit? I¡¯ll make sure you get a recement girl that¡¯s more than this.¡± her eyes nced at Giselle who seemed to be growling under her breath. ¡°Remembering the past, Nami? Wearing a mask and looking like this?¡± hence also, Jillyughed. She had to cover her mouth so as not to draw too much attention from others.


    ¡°I have good news for you, Mr. Andrew,¡± Justin said with unnerving calm. ¡°If this news gets out to the other side, I think you¡¯ll have a hard time dealing with it.¡±


    Andrew, who once felt like he had the upper hand, began to show caution.


    ¡°Are you sure your club is okay?¡± asked Justin with a sly grin. ¡°Um¡­ I don¡¯t think so-¡±


    The ringing of the cell phone from Jilly¡¯s bag startled her, and she quickly reached for her phone where the name of the confidant who ran her club appeared on the screen. Normally, if it wasn¡¯t important, Michael wouldn¡¯t call her.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Jilly matter-of-factly.


    ¡°Boss, there was a raid on the club! Many are being temporarily detained in a special room! How can that be? Didn¡¯t you give them their monthly rations?¡±


    Jilly¡¯s wide-eyed look almost jumped out of ce.


    ¡°There are reporters too, most of them asking for your whereabouts. I think you have to be careful wherever you are.¡±


    Seeing the look on Jilly¡¯s face, Justin smiled with satisfaction. He then set his sights on Andrew.


    ¡°What¡­ should I say clearly, Mr. Andrew? If you¡¯re being talked about by the public as a man close to the club owner?¡±


    Andrew returned the stare no less defiantly.


    ¡°The club owner who is dealing with thew because of today¡¯s raid. Never deny it, Miss Jilly Adams¡¯ club is a ce for international drug dealing. Um¡­ what kind of news will it be tomorrow?¡±

 [13]

    A knock on the door made Justin stop what he was doing. ¡°Come in,¡± he said briefly as he waited to see who his intruder would be this afternoon.


    It was Hans. From the marketing division that he can really rely on.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Justin left his chair. Asked Hans to sit on the avable sofa. He deliberately made his workspace much wider than other rooms. there is arge sofa that he usually uses for discussions with many of his staff, as well as a special meeting room with many agendas at the back. Not to forget therge cupboard containing design samples that he was working on.


    ¡°I have a guest who wants to visit.¡±


    Justin¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°Guests?¡± the question was immediately answered with a nod from Hans. ¡°Why are you weing him?¡±


    Hans grinned. ¡°We discussed a lot of things regarding the promo in SEO, especially for the apprentice models. They need a ce that matches the cement we want, right?¡±


    Hans¡¯ description made Justin squint even more suspiciously. ¡°Who¡¯s the guest?¡±


    Hans smiled broadly. ¡°The owner of The Coge. I think if we cooperate, they can help us far more than we ever imagined.¡± Hans straightened his back slightly. ¡°You know the work of The Coge¡¯s scouts, right? It¡¯s rare that the news they write or anything that gets picked up on social media fails to catch the public¡¯s attention. I think if we have connections that broad and that good, we have nothing to lose.¡±


    Justin knew where Hans was going with his words. Remembering the incident two nights ago at the Ambassador¡¯s residence, Justin could already predict Andrew¡¯s arrival at his office. But he didn¡¯t expect the owner of The Coge toe to see him so soon. At an inopportune time, Justin thought. Because in the afternoon, Justin had a long meeting with the other shareholders to outline SEO¡¯s ns for the next year.


    Including the show for next year, which is predicted to be able to reap more profits than what is targeted.


    But¡­ the opportunity to further corner Andrew would not be wasted until Justin found out why the man had approached Giselle. Whatever was already in his grasp, it wouldn¡¯t be easy to disrupt. Especially to the point of making Giselle ufortable. Let alone Giselle, a junior model who was involved in a scandal with a senior actor that left the model scared to death, Justin would put his body on the line. What if it¡¯s Giselle who gets hurt?


    Justin won¡¯t let that happen.


    Justin smiled very slightly. He took the cigarette he always had in his pocket, lit the end, and began to savor the smoke and the taste of nicotine on his lips. ¡°I¡¯m busy but ask him, if his offer appeals to me, my door is wide open.¡±


    Hans frowned in confusion but soon nodded obediently. Although he had questions, Hans couldn¡¯t just ask. The boss seemed to have reclinedfortably on the sofa, a sign of not wanting to be disturbed. Hans soon left Justin who was engrossed in his cigarette smoke.


    Justin didn¡¯t mind. Instead, he was reminded of his encounter with someone the day before they went to the banquet at the Ambassador¡¯s house.


    ¡°So¡­ are you interested in the information I have?¡± asked Justin as he looked at his interlocutor closely. He actually had his own fears in case he rejected what he had brought. rows of photos as well as some of the people involved in it. Including the confidant of the owner of the ce visited by Justin¡¯s informant.


    Meanwhile, the interlocutor, after examining all the files provided by Justin, could only let out a long sigh.


    ¡°Why does your passion attract such high stakes?¡±


    Justinughed. ¡°If he hadn¡¯t bothered me, I wouldn¡¯t have wanted to do this.¡±


    The man straightened his seat. The uniform he wore was a bit inconvenient but it was part of his life now. his position as chief of police in a fairlyrge area; both the crime rate and many things in the form of ugliness, whether threatening or horrifying, he already held two years ago. struggling in a field that was very opposite to his brother, did not make theirmunication cut off.


    His name is Zephyr Anderson. They¡¯re not blood rted but Zephyr has always considered Justin his little brother. One to be protected and loved since the poor boy¡¯s arrival a dozen years ago. His mother said Justin was a lucky boy to escape death. And Justin desperately needed love.


    Living with a mother who had such a gentle heart and temperament, Zephyr also understood that Justin needed help. That¡¯s why he always kept an eye on Justin. Although not infrequently, his extreme actions like this made Zephyr¡¯s heart never beat with relief.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°But what I¡¯ve brought you is no joke, Z. If you can catch the dealer and stop the cirction there, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be promoted this year.¡±


    Zephyr wagged his finger. ¡°It¡¯s not whether or not I get promoted, it¡¯s you!¡± he pointed right at Justin¡¯s nose. ¡°How can you casually talk like this? Take photos this close without being suspected? You¡¯repletely out of your mind!¡±


    Justinughed excitedly. ¡°Even mom says the same thing, right?¡±


    Zephyr tapped his forehead. ¡°Who are you protecting to do something like this?¡±


    Justin was no longerughing. Now his eyes looked seriously at the man he respected, respected, respected. For Justin, Zephyr was his all-time role model. ¡°She¡¯s one of the erotic dancers there. I asked for her legally but the owner seemed to want to ckmail and take advantage of the girl¡¯s past. She¡¯s at the top of thedder and I can¡¯t let that happen.¡±


    The interlocutor let out a long sigh. ¡°Giselle?¡±


    ¡°Yaps.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Zephyr let out a long sigh, unable to refuse what his sister asked. ¡°But never do anything like this on your own, Justin. It¡¯s dangerous! What you¡¯ve built could fall apart just because of this.¡±


    ¡°Oh, of course not!¡± Justin folded his arms across his chest. ¡°They don¡¯t know how to deal with a sneaky fox like me, Z.¡±


    ¡°Although I admit it,¡± the file was scrutinized by Zephyr again. ¡°What you found is truly a treasure to me. Do I have to say thank you?¡±


    Justin shook his head quickly. ¡°Make sure the owner doesn¡¯t move whenever he meets me. You know the influence you have, right?¡±


    Zephyr chuckled. ¡°Alright. You win. A capable strategist like you is a pity when ites to fabrics and fashion magazines.¡±


    ¡°You said you had my back,¡± Justin snapped with a look of annoyance. My mom trusts me with what I¡¯m doing, why are you questioning it?¡±


    Zephyr gave up. ¡°As long as you¡¯re happy and able to live with it, Justin. As a big brother, it¡¯s my job to support and help, even if it¡¯s only on asion.¡±


    Justinughed again. ¡°Thanks, Z. You really are a very good brother.¡±


    Zephyr spluttered. ¡°Come by the house once in a while, Justin. Don¡¯t you want to have dinner together? Rosaline asks about you a lot. Especially Be. She misses her noisy little uncle.¡±


    Justin couldn¡¯t hide his happyughter. Although their conversation afterward was filled with nostalgic talk, in Justin¡¯s mind, he had already nned what to do when he arrived at the banquetter.


    The bubble of memory burst when the door to his room opened again. and this time, it wasn¡¯t just Hans who came in but Andrew. Who was still the same as thest time Justin met him; haughty. It didn¡¯t matter, after all, it wasn¡¯t Justin who wanted to meet but the man who was now sitting in front of him.


    Of course, after Justin said yes.


    ¡°Hans, please prepare a drink and some snacks. I think our conversation will take some time.¡±


    Andrew gave Justin a displeased look, chuckling as he nced sarcastically at the other man. Even so, what they were going to talk about couldn¡¯t be done in a short time. Especially after what happened yesterday.


    Damn! Justin is not to be trifled with by Andrew.


    ¡°So¡­ do you have anything to say, Mr. Kingston?¡±

 [14]

    ¡°I didn¡¯t think that the owner of SEO could act that violently,¡± Andrew said, opening the conversation that had been apanied by silence. It wasn¡¯t because he had been silent since he entered Justin¡¯s office, but there was a huge intimidation he felt.


    Despite that, Andrew tried to rx. His eyes wandered just to distract himself from the pressure of being in this room; admiring Justin¡¯s spatial arrangement. Including being amazed by the design that was neatly arranged in one of the ss cabs.


    He wanted to praise but Andrew was reminded of Justin¡¯s actions which he thought werepletely out of line.


    ¡°I gave Jilly a warning, but unfortunately¡­¡± Justin reached for the coffee cup that had been served by one of the SEO staff. He slowly savored the bitter taste of the coffee that he thought was not right. He frowned and put the cup back down. He was reminded of the words that had yet toe out of his mouth.


    ¡°That woman ignored mepletely. As if I can¡¯t do anything about it,¡± she said with emphasis. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to enjoy the coffee?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that,¡± Andrew stammered. He lifted his share of the coffee cup and began to savor. He found it quite enjoyable for his taste buds. ¡°What that woman did has nothing to do with me.¡±


    ¡°Business-wise, I admit it¡¯s not,¡± Justin said immediately. ¡°But the media knows you¡¯re close because you go out together a lot.¡± He grinned slightly, indicating that what they were about to talk about was no longer just small talk.


    ¡°Are you threatening me?¡± asked Andrew with a calm look. Although he admitted, holding back the news about Jilly¡¯s troubled club was a bit difficult because it dragged his name. Who wouldn¡¯t want to get a big story like this? Since the news of the police raid, there had been a lot of calls at his office just to ask about their rtionship. However, they had strong evidence that Jilly and he were often together. Ah damn, but that togetherness was there because Andrew wanted more stories and what Giselle was doing after she hadn¡¯t visited in a while. And is thinking of a way for Andrew to meet Giselle freely.


    She wanted to scare Giselle a little with the information she got from Jilly. Who wants their good name to suddenly fall because of a dark past? Unfortunately, Andrew didn¡¯t realize that the behind-the-scenes role protecting Giselle was too big to take down.


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of giving you threats for me?¡± Justin chuckled. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    Andrew made a fist.


    ¡°I only gave you one warning and you¡¯re already on fire.¡± Again Justin said with satisfaction. ¡°You know,¡± the man leaned into his opponent without taking his eyes anywhere else. It gave one the impression that Justin never messed around with his words. including that he had put on such a good show that those who tried to bring Justin down, especially Giselle, would not be able to.


    ¡°You¡¯re just a rookie in a field I¡¯ve been in for almost five years. I¡¯ve walked the path of many spotlights far more experienced than you, Mr. Kingston. If it weren¡¯t for the influence of yourst name, I don¡¯t think you¡¯d have gotten as far as you have now.¡±


    Andrew growled but couldn¡¯t say anything because Justin¡¯s words really hit him hard.


    ¡°Do you need to hear what kind of information I have about you, Andrew Kingston?¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Andrew¡¯s self-control was starting to suffer. Usually, in the midst of a lot of pressure and condescending and belittling remarks, Andrew could still continue to speak calmly. also broke many assumptions about him especially during the highest shareholder meeting in his office. Because of this, he was ustomed to his interlocutors having great influence that could make him silent and obedient.


    But this time, Justin really looks terrifying. The look in the man¡¯s eyes was defiant and fearless.


    ¡°Your past is no less dark than Nami¡¯s. Both of you acted to support the life of a loved one. Very much loved but on different paths. You fulfill whatever the person who makes you tormented wants. No matter what the steps were like until I was at this point. But unfortunately, the person you are-¡±


    ¡°ENOUGH!¡± snapped Andrew under his breath. His eyes were burning into Justin. ¡°Don¡¯t you go on!¡±


    Justin¡¯s smile was triumphant. ¡°I don¡¯t want the years leading up to the SEO name and the model I¡¯ve brought up to the top to get as ridiculous a distraction as you guys are nning.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not nning anything,¡± Andrew interrupted quickly. He still had to normalize his sudden emotional outburst. How did Justin know about his past? Things he didn¡¯t want to hear about let alone let anyone else know? He closed his eyes tightly trying not to look weak in front of his opponent.


    Justin really can¡¯t be taken lightly.


    ¡°I kept all the information from Jilly to myself.¡± Andrew sighed softly after managing to get himself to start finding hisposure.


    ¡°For?¡± Justin leaned back against the back of the sofa. He lifted his leg as a sign that he was starting to rx into the conversation. Even so, the opponent, who didn¡¯t know Justin¡¯s gesture at all, continued to be wary.


    There are many considerations that Andrew must think about before stepping up to respond to the news out there. He should not make the wrong move and jeopardize his position at The Coge. Not only would he be ughtered by the real owner of The College-Henry Kingston, his father. he could be kicked out along with the person he loved the most.


    But¡­ how did the man in front of her know? Could it be that Justin was looking for a lot of information about him? Even though he had been so tightly covered, it couldn¡¯t be easily leaked. Especially when ites to the Kingston family.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to know.¡± Andrew picked up his cup again. Savoring the coffee seemed to calm him down even more.


    ¡°What you know about Nami, ah¡­ Giselle in the past, made herself scared.¡±


    Andrew put down the cup slowly. His eyes were slightly raised because he felt that someone was watching him very closely. And sure enough, when their eyes met, Justin¡¯s look was chilling. He swallowed nervously and looked away immediately.


    ¡°I¡¯m not used to calling Giselle Nami. I¡¯m sure she wouldn¡¯t like it if someone called her something from the past that she wanted to get out of her life. But is it possible? I don¡¯t think so. The past is like a scar that continues to stick wherever the original body moves. It may fade, but it¡¯s impossible to disappear because the past is rted to the future.¡±


    Andrew chose to keep his voice down.


    ¡°Just like you were bothered when I found out what your past was like. Right?¡±


    Andrew¡¯s hands were clenched again.


    ¡°So¡­ tell me what is your purpose in keeping pieces of Giselle¡¯s past? And then to approach her in a way that gives her fear? Is that so?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Andrew replied immediately. ¡°I have my own goals but I won¡¯t use what I know to bring him down.¡±


    Justin¡¯s grin broke out. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Without hesitation, Andrew nodded. ¡°You have cards that are far more terrifying than what I have. I didn¡¯t intend it that way, and what you have now makes me even more certain I can¡¯t use the threat of Giselle¡¯s past on her.¡±


    Justin chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re good at reading situations.¡±


    ¡°But there¡¯s one thing I¡¯ve wanted for a long time. Let¡¯s just say, this is my real goal.¡±


    Justin looked closely at the man who was now straightening his back.


    ¡°I want to get close to Giselle personally.¡±


    Justin¡¯s hands were folded with a frown on his forehead.


    ¡°I¡¯m taking this very seriously, Justin. Can¡­ you let it go?¡±

 [15]

    Giselle smiled at the news that appeared on her phone¡¯s home page. I don¡¯t know how many times she had actually seen the same news but still, there was a sense of joy because of the content in it. Let it go if someone curses her like a criminal because she feels happy seeing other people¡¯s hardships.


    The owner of a famous club was arrested for being the mastermind of drug trafficking and prostitution activities under the guise of art.


    It is rumored that Jilly Adams was brought in after it was discovered that her club was a hotbed of drug trafficking.


    Threatened with closure, Jilly Adams¡¯ club is under police surveince.


    This is the figure of Jilly Adam, the club owner who was raided by the policest night. Evidence is widely spread on social media.


    And there were still many headlines that dragged Jilly along with the photos that made the main headlines. Most disturbingly, Jilly¡¯s arrest took ce right in the parking lot of the Ambassador¡¯s residence. Some parties immediately rified that Jilly was an uninvited guest.


    Who wants to deal with such bad gossip?


    Although the news had been around for a few days, it didn¡¯t die down quickly. Because the media continued to make the arrest and raid,plete with a video of the club¡¯s closure that was widely discussed on various social media. It is absolutely certain that Jilly is dealing with the wrong people and when she finishes her business with the police, she will not be able to fully return to normal.


    ¡°It¡¯ll be a long time before you see me, Jilly,¡± Giselle said as she put away her phone. Today was a day off that she would use for herself. In two days¡¯ time, she would have to spend a month in Mn. Her name had been nominated for the twenty participants of the Miss World event. She was actually quite surprised because her portfolio was not yet qualified for her to participate in such a great event.


    But Nico and Brina said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to target victory. We all know that this year, winning is too far out of reach. But do the best you can, Giselle. We¡¯re all rooting for you.¡±


    And when she expressed her desire to enter the contest, and the results she got despite the invitation in the form of Giselle¡¯s nomination, Justin was the same. Fully supportive. He even asked Irena to shift a lot of Giselle¡¯s schedule. Adjusting to the quarantine schedule that Giselle would be doing in Mn. Although it was only two weeks, the time was valuable enough for Giselle toplete the many projects that had entered SEO.


    Giselle lets herself be blown away by the wind from above. The apartment has a spacious balcony that she can use to rx. Maybe after she gets paid for her current project, she can redecorate the balcony.


    The sound of the vehicles down there was hispanion this afternoon. It didn¡¯t matter, she took it as a sce for her loneliness while living here. ¡°Mom, if you were still by my side, you would have been surprised and a bit scared living at this height.¡± Sheughed but not a single voice apanied her. Giselle admitted that she was lonely.


    He wants to be friends with his colleagues, especially in SEO. But unfortunately, he is often disappointed. In their attitudes and actions that more often than not take advantage of the good he has. Because of that, he chose to stay away. It was nothingpared to always being talked about how his poprity rose so rapidly because of what he gave to Justin.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Oh my God, people would gossip if she used dirty means; sleeping with Justin, living with him, taking care of him in any way.


    ¡°Why do you even think weird like that, anyway?¡± He shook his head, not wanting to think much about the negative remarks that hade his way since joining. He didn¡¯t know who was to me here; his luck or his tireless training. He only had one determination; to make Justin proud.


    Because Justin was her guardian angel. Don¡¯t let him be disappointed by what Giselle does. Then she should have aplished a lot with proud results.


    ¡°Brina won¡¯t be here.¡± Giselle smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯d rather pay you a visit, Mom. Who knows, my longing might be relieved.¡±


    Once she was sufficiently prepared, Giselle quickly reached for the car keys hanging neatly on the small cab near the door. Just then, the unit¡¯s bell rang. It was a sign that someone was visiting, but who?


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    An apartment attendant was at the door. He had arge paper bag in one hand and a small piece in the other. ¡°I apologize for disturbing you, Miss. There is a delivery from someone that requires you to see it immediately.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°From whom? I can¡¯t ept random packages.¡±


    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re right. You can call the number on the card. It¡¯s in this big paper bag.¡±


    Giselle nodded in understanding. She epted the item when she was ready to go down to the basement. It wasn¡¯t toote in the afternoon that she visited her mother¡¯s grave. Not without reason, her mother¡¯s funeral was held at the edge of the vige where they once lived. There, just as her mother had wished before losing her battle with illness; she wanted to spend her old age in a quiet ce with less of the city¡¯s noise.


    And the only ce that fits, is the vige where Giselle grew up. Through the love of her parents, though fleeting, as her father left them forever. Perhaps because of her sadness, her mother¡¯s health suffered. And so ended the heartbreaking story that Giselle had to endure. But she has no regrets. In fact, ording to her, ¡°There will be regrets if I don¡¯t do anything for Mommy. If I had to go through hell for her recovery, I would have done it without any tears of pain.¡±


    Back to Giselle who was looking at her package carefully. There shouldn¡¯t be anything suspicious inside. She immediately reached in and pulled out arge paper bag that contained a card.


    Mind if we meet?


    AK_


    Giselle¡¯s eyeballs rolled in annoyance. She immediately put down the paper bag rather roughly without looking at the contents. There was a box with a red velvet band. It was a brand well known for the quality of its bags; Case Fashion. Giselle had modeled for their new product which soon became a best seller a few monthster.


    But she was quite curious about the small paper bag ced on the edge of the table. She didn¡¯t want to take it, but her curiosity got the better of her. Who knows, it might contain food because Giselle could see that there was a bakery logo printed on it. If it was true, it would be a shame if she didn¡¯t take it out of the ce. I don¡¯t know who would eat it, because remembering the sender made Giselle upset.


    Brina would have liked it anyway, but she had to check what was in it first.


    When she opened it and took it out of the box, two jars of her favorite cookies were there. There was a melted chocte setup with lots of chocochips on top. Oh my God. How tempting. ¡°It would be a shame if I didn¡¯t enjoy it, right?¡± At that moment, a card also came out of the paper bag.


    It makes him immediately pick it up as it falls and open what¡¯s inside. If it¡¯s just nonsense, he can throw it away immediately.


    I¡¯m waiting in the lobby. I have something to say, Nami.


    Can you?


    AK_


    ¡°Gosh, how stubborn is this guy?¡±


    ***


    Giselle is a chocte lover. She wouldn¡¯t waste a chocte setup even if it was given to her by a man who seemed happy to be her driver today. No matter if her behavior got the attention of the man, Giselle still enjoyed the chocte. She kept the two jars of cookies as supplies during the quarantine. Not bad. She could smuggle sweets without excessive supervision from Brina.


    ¡°Have you¡­ heard the news these past few days?¡± the man asked, opening his voice. It was also a silence breaker because there was no way they could be silent without any conversation. Their journey wasn¡¯t too far but still, wasn¡¯t this a rare opportunity?


    Giselle didn¡¯t reject him. Instead, she asked him to do something she felt was important? I don¡¯t know. The destination was an area on the edge of the city. No matter, it was a day off for the man too. He could spend time with Giselle wherever she wanted.


    ¡°Already,¡± Giselle replied briefly. Her mouth doesn¡¯t stop chewing and asionally expresses her love for this sweet treat.


    ¡°You really are a chocte fan, aren¡¯t you, Nami?¡± asked Andrew with a big smile. ¡°That¡¯s great if you like what I send. Do you mind if I send them every day?¡±


    ¡°You want to kill me?¡±


    Andrew was wide-eyed. ¡°How could I have such thoughts?¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m actually hostile to chocte. But hate and love are so thin, right?¡± She sighed and leaned backfortably in Andrew¡¯s car. ¡°Why did Justin entrust me to you, anyway? I wanted to drive myself.¡± Giselle chuckled in annoyance. She remembered the conversation on the phone that had annoyed her to no end.


    If Justin had been in front of him, he would have protested many times.


    ¡°I had no intention of anything other than apanying you today, Na-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me by that name!¡± Giselle red in disapproval. ¡°The next time I hear you say that name, you better watch your head!¡±


    Andrewughed. Raising his hand as a gesture of surrender and would do whatever Giselle wanted. But the tail of his eye saw the box that Giselle had been enjoying, just sitting on the dashboard of the car. No longer being enjoyed. ¡°You don¡¯t like those choctes?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like it,¡± Giselle said with a long sigh. ¡°I think I¡¯ve had enough chocte. And thank you for sending it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re no longer being wary of me. Honestly, I feel guilty.¡± Andrew nced at the calm-looking girl beside him.


    ¡°I¡¯m being nice because Justin asked me to,¡± Giselle said sarcastically. ¡°Never mind, I epted your kindness out of sincerity. Everything I do is Justin¡¯s order. For me, it¡¯s imperative to obey him.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s smile, which had been there, was gone. It was reced with a questioning frown that bothered him. ¡°Why is it like that?¡±


    ¡°I have no obligation to tell you why. Just focus on the pace of your car, sir.¡±


    Even so, Andrew nodded obediently. At least he was allowed to see Giselle today. And he would not waste the opportunity to get an apology from this beautiful girl sitting beside him. Ah¡­ Andrew was really going crazy thinking about all the things about Giselle.


    Aside from Giselle¡¯s appearance being much cuter than what he remembered and thest time he met her, the man waspletely unhinged after his conversation with Justin.


    ¡°She is the first person who will be with me at the top. Dare you disturb her, I will do everything in my power to make you realize where you reallye from.¡±


    Justin¡¯s words came back to him before he got permission to be close to Giselle. Don¡¯t ask how difficult it was because even from the rearview mirror, he could see the ck car that referred to the person who was watching his movements while with Giselle, giving no distance.


    ¡°I¡¯ll prove if I¡¯m serious,¡± Andrew muttered under his breath. He focused on the steering wheel again, lest he endanger them both.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± asked Giselle curiously because Andrew¡¯s behavior today was very strange. It waspletely unexpected.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Andrew said immediately. ¡°We¡¯re¡­ heading for West Road, right?¡± Better to divert Giselle to the road they had to travel.


    ¡°Um¡­ yes.¡± Giselle snuggled back down while asionally ncing at Andrew. Starting to question, what was really going on?

 [16]

    ¡°Giselle,¡± Justin called, causing her to immediately stop what she was doing. Noticing the many fashion magazines scattered in Justin¡¯s study.


    In four hours he had to be at the airport. The flight to Mn for quarantine had already begun. Many congratted her and wished her victory. Although Giselle had her doubts, at least a word is a prayer, right?


    Who knows, it might actuallye true. But there are many things that make Giselle seem hesitant to step up. Apart from the fact that her rivals had really been in the game for a long time, they must also have amazing experience. Unlike her who has minimal experience.


    ¡°We have something to discuss before you leave.¡±


    Giselle frowned. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you. You were too busy with other things to ignore me.¡± The girl went back to clinging to Justin who never got rid of her. Evidently, Justin only chuckled in response to Giselle¡¯s spoiled and sulking behavior.


    ¡°You know, next year¡¯s project is about to start. I still haven¡¯t found the right person to carry it.¡±


    Giselle nodded obediently. ¡°I understand.¡± She quickly followed Justin to the meeting room. Usually Irena and Brina, as well as Nico and Hans, discussed many things with Justin in this room. As the owner, Justin must be able to see from several aspects, not just from external factors. Internal factors rted to staffing and employee welfare are also a concern for Justin so that SEO continues to run and stand tall, even yearster.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to win,¡± Justin said as he closed the door. He let Giselle sit in one of the chairs. The room was air-conditioned so at least whoever entered the room would befortable.


    ¡°That¡¯s mean,¡± Giselle replied with a frown. ¡°You didn¡¯t wish me luck like everyone else. You¡¯re really annoying, Justin.¡±


    That remark was greeted with a cheerfulugh from the man. Sitting in front of Giselle with her arms folded across her chest. The beautiful face was still filled with annoyance. In contrast to her appearance which Justin thought was very cheerful. Wearing a bandana with a cat¡¯s paw, holding back her beautifully flowing hair. His ck eyeballs were the same color as the oversized sweater he was wearing. Her body was wrapped in a knee-length fanta pink dress as part of the fashion that Justin thought Giselle was wearing.


    Energetic and looks excited.


    ¡°I think and see logically. You¡¯re new to the modeling world. Your experience is minimal and even the way you walkedst time, there were still mistakes. I can still tolerate it, though. You take it easy, only a keen eye can see those mistakes.¡±


    Giselle pouted even more. She even turned away and refused to look at each other. Only in front of Justin, she was free to express herself like this. In front of other people, she needed a lot of courage and needed to be made to believe that the other person did not have a specific intention. Her trauma of being close to new people made her very wary.


    But why not Andrew? At that time, Giselle asked to be apanied to her mother¡¯s grave.


    Remembering that immediately made Giselle shake her head strongly. Andrew had brought her and apanied her because of Justin¡¯s orders. There was no way she could refuse. Right?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± asked Justin with a suspicious look. ¡°Is something making you ufortable?¡±


    Giselle immediately took control of herself. Shaking off the image of Andrew that was suddenly in her mind¡¯s eye. Not because she missed him, for God¡¯s sake! The thought of that was impossible. But her head was full of questions, how could Justin trust Andrew? After what he told him about the man?


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Giselle chose to smile broadly. ¡°So what did you want to say?¡±


    Justin still gave her a suspicious look but since Giselle didn¡¯t speak, he assumed she hadn¡¯t encountered anything that made him ufortable. ¡°Besides you don¡¯t have to have high expectations, but still, you have to perform your best.¡±


    ¡°I understand that,¡± Giselle said immediately.


    ¡°But don¡¯t get your hopes up. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll get overwhelmed. Just go through the carnival well. Participate in all the events that are organized. Socialize as much as you can with people you feelfortable with. Don¡¯t let it bother you to be there.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s easy.¡±


    Justin spluttered. ¡°I don¡¯t ept twenty-four hour service when you need a good, thoughtful listener.¡±


    The smile on Giselle¡¯s face was gone. It was reced with an annoyed frown on her lips. ¡°You want to bring down my mood?¡±


    Justinughed excitedly. ¡°Turns out it¡¯s fun to tease you. And I¡¯m definitely going to miss you for the next two weeks. Take good care of yourself there. Don¡¯t ever fall behind on your vitamins, Brina¡¯s got you covered, right?¡±


    Giselle nodded immediately.


    ¡°Don¡¯t eat too much chocte and go to bed on time. I know you¡¯re breaking it quietly, Giselle. Do you think I¡¯m blind to the sleeping hours of my models, especially you?¡±


    ¡°Gosh, you really are like Mama. So noisy and chatty.¡±


    Inevitably, Giselle¡¯s forehead received an easy target. How could Justin care less about her moaning in pain because he could just talk like that without any guilt? In fact, everything Justin said was for Giselle¡¯s benefit during the quarantine because he knew how strict the models who followed the quarantine agenda, especially at the level of the Miss World event in the country where they lived.


    ¡°Anything else you want to talk about?¡± asked Giselle as she rubbed her forehead, which didn¡¯t feel anything. Justin¡¯s jab hadn¡¯t hurt at all. But Giselle was not to be outdone. She had to put on an act to make Justin feel guilty. Showing a grimace of pain and a groaning voice while rubbing repeatedly. ¡°Your teasing today hurt, Justin,¡± Giselleined.


    Meanwhile, Justin just nced over and chuckled. ¡°You can¡¯t fool me, Giselle.¡± After that, he took out the cell phone he had been holding. ¡°Do well there and there¡¯s one more thing I want from you.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Look at this face,¡± Justin said, holding out his cell phone. The homepage of his phone was reced with a photo of a girl who Giselle felt was the same age as her. From the look in her eyes, Giselle could tell that the girl¡¯s beauty looked different.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Who is he?¡±


    ¡°One of the nominees who entered with you. His name is Harvey Princessa.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes blinked in surprise.


    ¡°Approach him and get along with him. I heard he¡¯s a friendly person.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± asked Giselle incredulously. The Harvey girl¡¯s face was the opposite of what Justin had said. She was quiet and didn¡¯t talk much. Plus the look in her eyes was sharp and she didn¡¯t like to be disturbed. Although wrapped in a sweet smile but still, can not lie the impression of Giselle who back and forth staring at the photo on Justin¡¯s cell phone.


    ¡°One hundred percent.¡±


    ¡°Have you met him?¡± asked Giselle with a suspicious nce.


    ¡°Not yet,¡± Justin replied lightly. Then he chuckled and pulled Giselle¡¯s chair a little closer. ¡°In my eyes, Harvey Princessa goes perfectly with Monocrome.¡± Justin¡¯s grin grew wide. ¡°Next year¡¯s show is themed Monochome and I think Harvey¡¯s facial lines, sharp eyes, and the way he looks around could be implemented to bring Monocrome to the SEO stage.¡±


    Giselle sighed and smiled broadly. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll do it for you.¡±


    Justin chuckled. ¡°Thanks, Giselle. You¡¯re really reliable.¡±


    There is one thing that makes Giselle willing to do anything for the man in front of her. The gentle strokes she received on the top of her head, made Giselle¡¯s body not want to move at all. It felt like the warmth there didn¡¯t want Giselle to end. She wanted to continue to feel the size of that hand there. The strokes also made Giselle feel safe andfortable.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Come on¡­ you¡¯ll miss your flight,¡± said Justin, who seemed surprised that Giselle had been so quiet. was something wrong? Is the task too hard? The proof was that Giselle didn¡¯t say anything about his request.


    ¡°Ah, good!¡± Giselle immediately got up cheerfully. Her smile was wide. Her steps were light.


    ¡°If you object to that-¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Giselle immediately grabbed Justin¡¯s arm again to leave the room together. As usual, Giselle never got a refusal. ¡°Whatever you want, I¡¯ll definitely help. Don¡¯t worry, I can definitely get close to Harvey.¡±


    ¡°Thank goodness.¡± Justin gently patted Giselle¡¯s hand that was wrapped around his arm. ¡°Give it the best you can during quarantine. Okay?¡±


    For Giselle, Justin is her sun. And she hopes that his sun doesn¡¯t turn to shine on anyone else but her.

 [17]

    I¡¯m sure you can do your best.


    AK_


    Giselle put her cell phone back in her bag. Letting the car that brought her to the quarantine site continue to drive. asionally, she would answer questions to break the ice. Brina apanied her, but after arriving at the Ford building, her assistant immediately caught the next flight. Leaving Giselle alone to follow the hectic agenda.


    Because of that, she didn¡¯t focus too much on her cell phone and some personal interests. Why would she respond to Andrew¡¯s message anyway? There was no point. She had already thanked him for the trouble. Even so, Giselle still didn¡¯t understand why Justin allowed the man to visit her?


    ¡°We¡¯re almost there, Miss Giselle,¡± informs Daisy, one of the agency staff under the Miss Worldbel. For the next two weeks, Daisy will be assisting Giselle during quarantine. No chaperones are allowed to participate in the quarantine due to the full schedule that has been scheduled for the participants.


    Brina grasped Giselle¡¯s hand tightly. She was a little worried because she knew how Giselle was. No, she wasn¡¯t. Brina wasn¡¯t worried about Giselle acting up. The submissive girl always obeyed whatever she said, especially borrowing Justin¡¯s name. One thing Brina couldn¡¯t control; her penchant for cheating on chocte.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do anything strange during quarantine, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle turned her head and scowled. ¡°You¡¯re such a nag, Brina. I¡¯m not a five-year-old if you know,¡± she said with an uneptable re. whispered with a look of annoyance at being considered a child. Always.


    Brina slightly poked Giselle¡¯s ear. ¡°You¡¯re such a kid, Giselle. When you grow up, you know when to refrain from cheating.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s nose red with irritation. Her eyes stared in exasperation at Brina who seemed to beughing. Then the woman casually ruffled Giselle¡¯s neatly coiffed hair.


    ¡°All right, Little Sister. I trust you haven¡¯t had any strange reports about yourself in the past two weeks.¡±


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Giselle quickly swatted away Brina¡¯s hand. Letting herugh with satisfaction. Also some of the staff who were watching, seemed to smile in understanding because maybe they had just found out how Giselle was behind the camera.


    Mn was still the same as Giselle remembered. She had attended a charity event at the city museum run by the daughter of a Mnese authority. Because of her influence, the princess was able to bring in many donors from outside the city and the proceeds received, far exceeded their target. some of the artists and models who were being talked about also added to the appeal of the charity event. Two dayster, a rare jewelry auction was also held there. Whether it was coincidence or Justin¡¯s considerable influence, they were able to attend these two important events. And automatically, Giselle¡¯s name soared even higher.


    ¡°After entering the Ford building, all your needs and requirements during quarantine are under my supervision. I ask for your cooperation and apologize if I¡¯m being too presumptuous.¡± Daisy twisted her body slightly because she was sitting in the front seat. From the moment she picked up Giselle Namiozuka, she was curious as to what this up-anding model¡¯s behavior would be like.


    Is it like other models who act haughty? Polite only in public but once you get into a more private space, her true personalityes out? Or a fan of bullying the ordinary staff like her? These things lingered in Daisy¡¯s mind until they met in the airport lobby. With Giselle dragging her own luggage, she asionally joked with her assistant. In fact, sometimes the assistant looks like a big brother apanying his little sister somewhere.


    The impression of being friendly, down-to-earth, not talking much, and smiling more often when greeted, is what Daisy caught afterward. She thought it was only natural to maintain the image of a famous model in front of the public. Still in the airport lobby, of course, they had to maintain the good image they¡¯d built so that their names wouldn¡¯t be tarnished by an ordinary scandal. But afterward, Daisy had to be prepared to deal with their sometimes obnoxious behavior.


    ¡°I need your help too, Daisy. It looks like I¡¯m going to be a lot of trouble for you,¡± Giselle said, extending her hand. Trying to keep the girl from being stiff during her two-week quarantine. It wasn¡¯t without reason that she had to do this, Daisy was Brina¡¯s recement while in the Ford building. In addition to being vignt and calm, Giselle also had to quickly read the situation about what kind of people were involved in it.


    She was afraid that she would have another bad experience. Although not all of them are like that, Giselle prefers to anticipate herself to stay apart. After all, Justin doesn¡¯t forbid it. He said, ¡°As long as you¡¯refortable being like that, it¡¯s fine with me. After all, your image won¡¯t be damaged by being distant from others. Let¡¯s just say, they can only admire you from a distance without being able to get close.¡±


    ¡°Can I see the ce where Giselle is temporarily staying?¡± asked Brina which made Giselle turn her head immediately. not only Giselle, but Daisy also did the same.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about thefort of the contestants. We always prioritize thefort of the contestants. This includes housing and facilities.¡± Daisy tried to exin even though it was a bit strange.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure Ford will do their best. I¡¯ve heard a lot about how the Ford staff performs in hosting the contestants. It¡¯s not just this year, is it, that Ford is trusted for such a big event?¡±


    Daisy blushed visibly. ¡°That¡¯s right, Miss.¡±


    ¡°I want to talk to Giselle first. It doesn¡¯t matter, right?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Daisy replied immediately, smiling at Brina¡¯s friendly and polite manner. Not long after, the car they were traveling in arrived at the main lobby. They got off immediately and their luggage was taken care of by other staff.


    Giselle walked alongside Daisy and Brina. asionally, Daisy would tell Giselle where she could go to get rid of her boredom if she wanted to go to the gym. Or the private swimming pool on the 20th floor that has been prepared for the contestants to keep fit.


    Or just enjoy a coffee in between the hectic activities they¡¯ll be doingter.


    ¡°For dinner, all participants will be gathered in a separate hall. You could say it¡¯s also a night of intimacy between the participants. We don¡¯t want there to be too much distance between senior and junior contestants,¡± Daisy exined while pressing the elevator button where Giselle will be staying temporarily.


    The 19th floor is the ce that Ford has chosen for the model whose name has be quite recognizable in recent months. Aside from her very sudden appearance, Giselle¡¯s face also has a distinctive feature that is sure to be in high demand by top fashion houses. Unfortunately, the contract that Giselle has for SEO is binding for a long time.


    Did Giselle regret it? Not at all. In fact, she is lucky because she no longer needs to adapt to the people in it.


    ¡°Well, your room is number 198.¡± Daisy let Giselle and Brina out first. Giselle¡¯s luggage was neatly arranged on a special trolley carrying luggage.


    Giselle strode confidently until¡­ ¡°Oh!¡±


    ¡°Oops! Oh my, God!¡±


    Giselle winced in pain while the idental hitman made the girl almost fall ¨C luckily, Brina was there to hold the model. The hitman¡¯s face looked upset and panicked. He came closer and tried to help Giselle too.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± she said with a look of regret. ¡°I¡­¡±


    The face reminded Giselle of Justin¡¯s message. ¡°You¡¯re¡­ Harvey?¡±


    ¡°Are you pretending to be in pain or are you intentionally watching me?¡±


    Giselle sniggered in displeasure. ¡°It hurts just so you know.¡± She also slightly disengaged from Brina. ¡°My shoulder bone is disced and could cause injury because of your reckless behavior.¡±


    Harvey¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Wow¡­ you¡¯re good at acting apparently.¡±


    No, Giselle did not get angry at that remark. Instead, her hand unconsciously stretched out. ¡°I¡¯m Giselle. You¡¯re really Harvey, aren¡¯t you?¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.

 [18]

    Andrew stood staring at therge window behind his desk. His choice of workspace at The Coge¡¯s headquarters was unique. He liked the view of the busy city center below. It was a wee respite from the busy schedule he had during his tenure as a senior officer in a national newspany.


    In his hand was still the cell phone that had sent a message some time ago, but until this moment had not received a reply.


    ¡°At least she read my message,¡± he said with a chuckle. His eyes were again staring at the cell phone as if wasting time like this didn¡¯t matter, even though if he was honest, Andrew had a lot of deadlines to catch up on. But waiting for a reply from the girl who controlled his mind was much more of a priority.


    Even if you are well aware, the probability of being reciprocated is at five percent.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Should I send snacks?¡± asked Andrew with a frown on his forehead. ¡°But Nami has already arrived in Mn? Or¡­¡± He hurried back to his desk. Suddenly, he remembered that there was one agenda from his subordinates to Mn to cover the event that would be held in two weeks. But The Coge had special permission to report on some of the contestants¡¯ activities during the quarantine period.


    Don¡¯t ask me how difficult it was for Andrew to persuade the owner of Ford to give The Coge special permission to have that privilege.


    ¡°Andy there?¡± Andrew quickly sat up and reached for the inte that connected to whichever division he wanted.


    ¡°There is, sir. I¡¯m leaving for Mn soon to catch up with Jenny.¡±


    ¡°I want to talk.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t long before Andrew was connected to the person. They exchanged pleasantries while instructing him to cover the interesting parts as the contestants went about their activities. They had already discussed how to broadcast the exclusive side-by-side with Ford.


    ¡°You must have the contestants¡¯ schedule, Andy?¡± asked Andrew as he leaned backfortably. Trying to normalize his sanity after a crazy idea came up.


    ¡°Yes, sir. Jenny just gave it to me. We are discussing what can be broadcast live, and what can be reported on the media page on the main page. Many contestants are debuting this time, sir, so thepetition is quite fierce and people are waiting for it.¡±


    Andrew doesn¡¯t really care about that. He believes his team knows best how to process news so that it is interesting and has selling points. The more people who are interested in the news that is spread, the higher the amount of money thates in.


    ¡°Send it to my personal email Giselle¡¯s schedule. Be detailed, don¡¯t miss anything and if there are any changes, let me know immediately.¡±


    ¡°B-Okay, sir.¡± Andy looked taken aback by the boss¡¯s request, but what could he do? There was no way he could ask bluntly, right?


    ¡°Anything rted to Giselle, you report to me. No matter what it is. And I want no one to know about this extra assignment for you. Understood?¡±


    ¡°Understood, sir.¡± Andy was getting more and more astonished.


    ¡°Good. I¡¯m waiting for your report, Andy.¡± Andrew immediately disconnected the call. There was no need to wait for Andy¡¯s response. It had only been a year since the young man had joined The Coge but Andrew could already sense great potential in the man. Eager and rarely desperate to wait for big figures toe out in public if there was a big news story going on. And what Andy wrote, most of the people were interested in.


    There¡¯s a lot that Andrew can rely on to keep The Coge going. As long as there are materials that can be raised continuously, Andrew believes that what he has built here will not copse easily. Although sometimes he acted in a way that could jeopardize The Coge. Like the case that was easily covered up by his connections; Jilly¡¯s dating partner.


    ¡°Tsk! Just thinking about it makes me sick.¡± Andrew dismissed the thought immediately. ¡°Their spections are terrible.¡± Heughed. Feeling part of a life where people¡¯s private lives are often scrutinized. ¡°Is this karma?¡±


    Hisughter filled the office even more. As his eyes fell on the work screen, where many reports were waiting, he let out a long sigh. ¡°Alright. I have to get back to reality.¡± Theughter vanished immediately, and the smile that had been gracing the lips of the rxed-looking man in his ck shirt also disappeared. It was reced with the stern, stiff-faced figure of Andrew.


    He rarely talks about unnecessary things, only listening if his employees¡¯ reports and arguments make sense. Otherwise, he doesn¡¯t care how they fulfill his wishes. A true dictator is inherent in Andrew.


    Just like his predecessor; Franky Kingston. The father who often made Andrew feel small in front of him. He did everything he could to satisfy his father¡¯s expectations of what Andrew had achieved, but s¡­ Franky was not easily satisfied. Always pressuring Andrew from many sides, especially from the side that really weakens him.


    Liliana Kingston. Andrew¡¯s mother is very dear to him.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for mypassion, your mother would be a stranger! All I want is my sessor! So, be an obedient sessor if you don¡¯t want to see your mother suffer!¡±


    The threatening words kept ringing out. Shackling Andrew tightly. I don¡¯t know how many times he took a breath just to relieve his anxiety, but still, it wasn¡¯t easy to get rid of something that had been entrenched in Andrew Kingston¡¯s thirty-year life.


    His cell phone vibrated softly, an iing email that immediately caught Andrew¡¯s attention. Of course it was from Andy where an attachment about Giselle¡¯s schedule was attached. Andrew¡¯s smile returned and he scanned it carefully while writing a few notes in his agenda. He didn¡¯t want to miss anything and as for the delivery, he could ask his secretary to take care of it. Andrew just needed a schedule where Giselle had free time.


    For her toe there? Ah¡­ I¡¯d say it was impossible except for the final night. Aside from the demanding demands of his job, his father¡¯s warning could not be disobeyed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t embarrass the Kingston family with cheap gossip, Andrew! You should reflect on the experiences around you. Lowly gossip can ruin a good image. Take care of it immediately, I don¡¯t want to read and get reports of your name appearing on the front page of social media! How embarrassing!¡±


    Because of his closeness to Jilly, he was affected. However, it didn¡¯t matter because¡­ a file in his drawer caught his attention again.


    ¡°What will happen if all this gets out to the media,¡± she said softly. Inside the file, there was a pendrive, photos, and Giselle¡¯s personal data along with whatever activities she did at Jilly¡¯s club. The woman simply gave it to Andrew without much thought. Perhaps, Jilly thought, Andrew and herself were aligned to destroy Giselle.


    Unfortunately, Andrew only wants to keep Giselle around. While Jilly wants to use Giselle¡¯s poprity as a useful host. Andrew knows this intention but can¡¯t prevent it immediately, because he needs all the data about Giselle¡¯s past.


    He closed the drawer again and locked it tightly. Her smile was thinly etched with warm eyes staring at Giselle¡¯s schedule. ¡°You can rest easy, Nami. Everything is safe in my hands. I have no intention of destroying what you love. Your new world makes you shine and I love it.¡±


    The smile grew wider.


    He remembered that the conversation with Justin that ended his day was really lucky. Very, very lucky and if he could, ah no, Andrew would make it happen again and again.


    Apanying Giselle.

 [19]

    ¡°Why do you need my permission to get close to Giselle?¡± Justin asked with a suspicious look. ¡°I¡¯m not going to let a new person in Giselle¡¯s life ruin it. To be where she is now, Giselle had to work hard and go through a lot of hardships. And you? Casually asking me for permission after what happened?¡±


    ¡°No-no. I have no bad intentions at all. I really want to be around Giselle. Support her all the way. I mean it, Justin.¡±


    Andrew knew Justin didn¡¯t trust easily. But he wasn¡¯t going to give up. He said many things to convince the man in front of him, including¡­ ¡°I¡¯ll help you get rid of the bad press about Giselle. I have many connections to do so. I assure you, the news about Giselle out there is only the best and achievements. No scandals. Nothing bad. But let me get close.¡±


    ¡°If she refuses, you should immediately step aside without prejudice to what you have said.¡±


    Andrew blinked but then he smiled widely. It didn¡¯t matter if Justin used him this way, as long as he had a chance to get close to Giselle. As for being rejected, that could be thought ofter. ¡°Yes. I promise.¡±


    ¡°A man¡¯s word must be kept, Andrew. Not just in the mouth, but must be proven.¡±


    ¡°I know that, Justin. I¡¯ll do what I said earlier and I¡¯ll back off if Giselle refuses.¡±


    Justinughed. ¡°Go ahead, then. I entrusted Giselle to my enemy, actually.¡±


    ¡°You consider me an enemy?¡± asked Andrew with a look of disbelief. ¡°I have no malice, Justin.¡±


    The other person just shrugged. Even so, Justin already seemed to rx his attitudepared to before. This also made Andrew somewhat relieved although he still had questions about why he was considered an enemy by Justin. He would not go back on his word. Everything was done for Giselle.


    ¡°Love can be blinding, Andrew. I know your intentions now, can they changeter? Oh, of course they can. And I can¡¯t trust you immediately just because of today¡¯s conversation. Do you think I¡¯m stupid?¡±


    Andrew was silent.


    ¡°Make your words a reality for the next six months. And what you know about Giselle, get rid of it immediately. Don¡¯t let anyone else take advantage. There are many Jillys out there and I don¡¯t care, what kind of Jilly wille to me, I¡¯ll sh without hesitation. Even if it¡¯s you, who may have gained my trust, I will not hesitate to destroy you for hurting the people under my influence.¡±


    ¡°You got what you wanted, Justin. Take it easy.¡±


    The conversation some time ago also reminded Andrew of Jilly¡¯s words. ¡°Justin gave a ransom with a fantastic amount. I wondered if he didn¡¯t love the money he had spent. But as it turned out, Justin was able to return the money quickly and many times over. Giselle was really made into a ssy model by him.¡±


    ¡°No wonder Justin protects Giselle so fiercely.¡± Andrew looked back at Giselle¡¯s schedule. ¡°What can I do now to support Giselle?¡± But before he could do anything, he had to prepare a lot of things to let Giselle know he was around. She asked her secretary toe into the room. There was something that Nindy-her assistant-had to do, in terms of adjusting Giselle¡¯s schedule.


    ¡°Can I help you, sir?¡± Nindy asked once she was near the boss¡¯s desk. Andrew handed her a piece of paper which made the assistant frown in surprise. ¡°This is¡­ what, sir?¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    ¡°Send the gifts at the hours I have marked. Find the best shop around Mn and try to get the gift to the person I intended.¡±


    ¡°A present?¡± Nindy blinked softly.


    ¡°Flowers, choctes, snacks, or anything that can be sent there immediately. Anything goes. As long as it¡¯s on schedule and continuous. Don¡¯t miss it and slip a greeting card in there.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Nindy no longer asked many questions. Not because the details had already been told on the sheet, but if she asked too many questions, she might lose this valuable job. Andrew, the boss, was known for not hesitating to fire employees who couldn¡¯t keep up with him. Not to mention that if there was a mistake, almost all divisions were sted.


    ¡°The greeting card contains support for the recipient and don¡¯t forget, my initials. Got it?¡±


    ¡°Understood, sir.¡±


    ¡°Then, go back to your desk. Make sure you don¡¯t miss anything, Nindy.¡±


    A confident and firm nod, Nindy gave as an affirmation that she would not neglect to carry out this new order. she immediately left Andrew in his room. Returning to continue his work which was quite upying. It also seemed that the boss was again looking at the many reports that were scattered on his desk.


    Left behind by his assistant, Andrew was a little relieved and imagined what Giselle would look like once she got a delivery from him. While together yesterday, Giselle bluntly said, ¡°I don¡¯t want to be sent the things you do, Andrew. It¡¯s just inconvenient for you.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t mind, Na-oke, Giselle. I¡¯m not used to it actually.¡±


    Giselle rolled her eyes in annoyance. ¡°Get used to it then. Nami is gone. There is only Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°Back to talking about my shipment, I¡¯m not bothered at all. I hope you enjoy what I send you in between your activities.¡±


    ¡°You know,¡± Giselle looked closely at Andrew who was focused on the steering wheel. Don¡¯t let him lose focus by sitting next to Giselle.


    ¡°Brina scolds me if I eat too much chocte. Chocte is my favorite. But how do you know what my favorite is?¡±


    Andrewughed again. ¡°What don¡¯t I know about you?¡±


    ¡°You really are a terrible stalker, Mr. Andrew.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t have any intentions other than wanting to get to know you better.¡±


    ¡°Whatever.¡± Giselle shook her head lightly. Sitting backfortably, she enjoyed the ride to the desired ce.


    It was Andrew¡¯s belief that Giselle wouldn¡¯t refuse any of his gifts. After all, who can resist chocte if that person is Giselle?


    Just as Andrew began to focus on his work, there was a knock on the door. Nindy entered with a downcast face and hesitant steps.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ there¡¯s a guest who wishes to see you, sir.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any client appointments today, do I? You¡¯re my assistant but don¡¯t memorize my schedule at all?¡± Andrew asked with a sharp look. He didn¡¯t want to be bothered at all with sudden meetings that were arbitrarily made. Unless it was urgent and could not be interrupted at another time, what could be done, Andrew tried to fulfill it.


    ¡°But, sir.¡±


    ¡°What else?¡± snapped Andrew fiercely.


    ¡°The one who wants to meet you is the owner of Unique.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. His memory was immediately drawn to the report of one of the reporters working under The Coge. News that could have shaken the business world in this country but Andrew deliberately held back. Asking him to continue to find out how true the photos were.


    ¡°Pleasee in then.¡± Andrew grinned widely. ¡°And get her a drink because it looks like this is going to be a long conversation.¡±

 [20]

    ¡°What did I tell you!¡± Brina immediately took the jar of cookies that Giselle had hidden right under her favorite nket. As was Giselle¡¯s habit when she was out of town, especially for a long time; she brought her favorite nket to apany her to sleep.


    ¡°Brina, please. Don¡¯t take everything. Leave one jar. When I¡¯m stressed, my only distraction is chocte.¡±


    Brina would not listen to Giselle¡¯s whining. It didn¡¯t matter that the girl¡¯s eyes were looking at her pleadingly. Not to mention, all of Brina¡¯s behavior was blocked. Even though her assistant was helping Giselle to arrange clothes in the avable cabs. Even the model¡¯s toiletries so as not to bother her when she was in there.


    ¡°Please,¡± Giselle said once again. ¡°Without chocte, I feel empty and have no energy.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking too much poetry, Giselle. You can do anything without chocte.¡± Brina put the jar into her bag. ¡°Alright. My job is done. Your medicine and vitamins are in the top drawer of the nightstand beside the bed. Don¡¯t miss taking your vitamins, you have a busy schedule, Giselle. Take care of your health.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°You really are a wolf!¡±


    ¡°Let it be. The important thing is that you don¡¯t overeat chocte.¡± Brinaughed. ¡°I¡¯ll go first. I¡¯ll see you on finals night. We¡¯lle support you.¡±


    Since this conversation was about her support during the quarantine, Giselle¡¯s face changed immediately. She smiled widely and nodded confidently. ¡°I will try my best.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t push yourself too hard. Justin is very happy you made it to the contestant list but don¡¯t get your hopes up. There are still years toe where you can show off your skills. Use this quarantine time to learn more about modeling. And you should also learn a lot about general knowledge. You know, on the final night, it¡¯s not just about your beautiful body and face, but your critical thinking skills and how you as models respond to the world¡¯s movements.¡±


    Giselle nodded obediently again. ¡°I¡¯ve made my own agenda for studying. You just rx. I¡¯ll try my best.¡±


    Brina is confident that Giselle will not mess with her words. Her determination is strong to give her best in every performance. Even jobs where Giselle is the main star, never getints from the parties who work together. The SEO marketing team said that the impact of Giselle¡¯s appearance in the modeling scene and the SEO brand really showed a significant upward direction. Many increasingly believe that SEO is a reputable brand to be proud of.


    ¡°Alright, Giselle, I¡¯ll take my leave. Don¡¯t act up and behave yourself. Don¡¯t let it happen like before again.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°That¡¯s his fault. Instead of apologizing, she scolded me. It¡¯s like this big me is getting in the way. Damn it!¡±


    Brinaughed. ¡°Never mind. You¡¯ll be together for the quarantine. Don¡¯t stand out with the melee.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m the one who started the riot?¡± Giselle was even more annoyed by Brina¡¯s words but could not get angry. Because Brina was one of the people close to her and neverined about anything Giselle did.


    ¡°I¡¯m going, yeah. Justin called me earlier. I have something to take care of with Irena regarding your schedule after quarantine.¡± Brina gave a brief hug goodbye.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Giselle replied no less tightly and released her assistant immediately, letting Brina exit the room without the need for apaniment to the lobby. Because she had to prepare for the introductory event in the afternoon that would continue until dinner. It was still a free event but it was still binding and could not make Giselle act as she pleased.


    In the end he had to let his favorite jar of chocte go home with Brina. Though she wanted to eat while apanying her study, ah no, just a quick read of the news about this world. lest she be too blind and not anything that happens in this country.


    ¡°Never mind, it¡¯s better to be prepared. Who knows, I might make some new friends. Or not, huh?¡± Giselle chuckled. But remembering the annoying girl named Harvey made her splutter in annoyance. ¡°Why should I find out about that girl. I admit, she¡¯s attractive. Even I, a woman, can¡¯t take my eyes off Harvey¡¯s face.¡±


    Giselle immediately sorted out which clothes were appropriate to wear at a rxed eventter. Not long after, there was a knock on her bedroom door. Daisy appeared there with arge paper bag. It looks like she was bothered to eat immediately Giselle asked toe in.


    ¡°Am I disturbing you, Miss?¡±


    Giselle wagged her finger lightly. ¡°Don¡¯t be so formal. I¡¯m not your boss, am I?¡± Sheughed. Which, because of her words, made Daisy rx and get used to it.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    ¡°As stated in the schedule, the introduction ceremony will be held on the 22nd floor at the swimming pool as well as the banquet dinner. The dresses to be worn have been prepared because part of the event is sponsored by some famous boutiques. There will also be a group photoshoot before the opening of the event tomorrow morning.¡±


    Giselle just raised her thumb.


    ¡°For hair and makeup, all contestants are asked to gather in a separate room before entering the event room.¡±


    It didn¡¯t matter to Giselle, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get ready first. There¡¯s still half an hour left, right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Giselle. Then, if you¡¯ll excuse me. I¡¯ll wait in the make-up room.¡±


    Giselle let Daisy out of her room. The door, which had been open, was closed again and Giselle deliberately locked it. She needed to clean herself up in peace. It didn¡¯t take long before she was ready to be made up ording to the theme. All she had to do was apply skincare to protect her skin and pack a few small essentials in her carry-on bag.


    The penguin tail dress makes Giselle¡¯s posture look much taller than usual. The right choice of heels also adds value to this chic navy and white dress.


    She deliberately let her long hair down after giving it vitamins. Keeping it from being damaged by frequent styling is an obligation. Justin once said, hair is a woman¡¯s crown. whose beauty can bring men to their knees. Other girls, meanwhile, are envious and want to have healthy, shiny hair like Giselle has. Giselle has proven that for a long time.


    Just out of her room, she bumped into an annoying runner.


    ¡°Apparently you¡¯re in the room next to mine?¡± he asked with a t face but Giselle could tell, there was a small smirk appearing at the corner of his lips. As if deliberately teasing Giselle for some reason.


    ¡°Are you distracted?¡± Giselle continued to walk casually. Not caring about the girl who was now walking beside her.


    ¡°Not at all. I just happened to have a friend.¡±


    Giselle grinned slightly. ¡°No friends apparently?¡±


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that be the same as disgracing yourself, Giselle?¡± Harvey chuckled. His steps stopped right at the elevator that would take them to the floor they had been told about.


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Giselle said with a faint smile. The elevator doors opened, but no one else in the hotel was using it. To Giselle¡¯s relief, they headed up to the 21st floor together.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be a boring two weeks,¡± Harveyined, his eyes fixed on the numbers that changed with each passing floor. ¡°I hope you¡¯re not bored, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Harvey¡¯s grin meant a lot to Giselle. But since the elevator stopped right at their destination floor, Harvey didn¡¯t want to talk anymore. he chose to step ahead of Giselle as the elevator doors opened. at the same time, several contestants were there. Familiarizing themselves with each other withughter full of pleasantries.


    Meanwhile, Giselle didn¡¯t really care about any of them, just said a quick hello and didn¡¯t want to get involved with the conversation. I don¡¯t know. Giselle felt like she was the new center of attention. Maybe it¡¯s because she¡¯s a new face, but she¡¯s already had the chance topete with other contestants who are far more qualified than her.


    Like Brina and Justin said, it doesn¡¯t matter if he doesn¡¯t win. After all, he doesn¡¯t have much experience. He just wants to know how dark the modeling world is. It was his curiosity that brought him here.


    ¡°Wow, I didn¡¯t expect the rumors to be true. SEO Fashion¡¯s trusted model, even I had a hard time getting a contract with SEO. I¡¯m lucky to know and meet you here, Giselle.¡± One of the contestants, Charlotte, approached. Smiling broadly, she extended her hand to Giselle. Giselle weed it immediately as she was still reading the situation.


    In a ce where many girls are beautiful and have well-proportioned bodies. The eyes that looked at her sharply were also full of questions as well, judging what Giselle was like.


    ¡°Thank you for the wee.¡±


    Charlotte leaned closer and whispered softly. ¡°Be careful with Harvey. She¡¯s¡­ a troubled girl. I saw you with him earlier.¡±

 [21]

    Giselle finished her face and hairdo. As she usually wears on a daily basis, natural make up with her hair slightly ented with waves at the ends. Matching the outfit she wore for the night of the banquet and the intimacy of each contestant.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think SEO model Giselle is interested in this kind of event,¡± said one of the contestants whom Giselle recognized as a well-known celebrity; Tasya Marcos. She extended her hand to the girl in front of her, smiling slightly as she weed Giselle into the banquet hall.


    Giselle weed them no less warmly. Although her heart and eyes began to probe more deeply into their actions. amon thing that happens among contestants whopete for prestigious champions like this. there will definitely be drama wrapped in friendliness in the smiles and nces that lead to it.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to be among you.¡± All Giselle could do now was be friendly. Like everyone here. but for some reason her eyes fell on a figure who was leisurely enjoying the meal. indeed, asionally the figure was friendly but after that, the smile was no longer there.


    ¡°What a strange person,¡± Giselle muttered after she had pulled away from many of the contestants who were reprimanding her. Several groups began to form and seemed to be having a lot of fun talking about things. It sounded quite excited and ording to Giselle was also used as a ce to show off and brag.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Charlotte greeted as she brought Giselle a mocktail provided by the organizers. ¡°You like being alone, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Giselle said sincerely. Could she get rid of the thought that Charlotte was just like the others? While the other contestants were busy looking for a group, Charlotte seemed to be blending in and familiarizing herself with everyone she greeted. But¡­ for some reason, Giselle felt that Charlottecked sincerity in every smile she gave.


    Maybe it¡¯s because she¡¯s been in a world where most people don¡¯t hesitate to show their violent and lustful side while at the club, and then when Giselle finds out about these people¡¯s private lives, they¡¯re nothing more than human beings wearing the most perfect masks. There¡¯s a lot of ugliness buried in every smile and unleashed when they¡¯re partying under the sh of colorful lights and ear-splitting music.


    ¡°I need some fresh air.¡± That was all Giselle could say. ¡°It¡¯ll be a while before the main event of the banquet, right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Charlotte smiled cheerfully. ¡°I heard that the organizers for this year are quite selective in choosing potential contestants and we¡¯re lucky to be here and meet. Even though we¡¯ll have topete, I guess it wouldn¡¯t hurt if we became friends, right?¡±


    Giselle smiled and savored the mocktail that Charlotte had given her for conversation.


    ¡°I heard that SEO will hold another show next year?¡±


    The ss that had been on Giselle¡¯s lips, she slowly began to distance herself. No longer savoring the refreshing drink but listening and examining what the person she had just met meant. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s true.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure, you¡¯ll be the main star again. when you appeared in the past few months, many people didn¡¯t expect you to be as popr as you are now. SEO¡¯s help is not ying around to boost the model to be more famous, huh.¡±


    Giselle looked at the girl with the full name Charlotte mpe with a surprised look but thenughed in response to the words just now. ¡°There¡¯s a point, and there¡¯s also a point I think.¡±


    Charlotte returned the gaze still with a faint smile. ¡°There are many who want to be SEO models but unfortunately, it seems that the owner chooses the model he wants to work with. right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Giselle agreed with that. ¡°Justin prefers to dive right in to assess and scrutinize who¡¯s worthy of wearing his designs.¡±


    ¡°And you feel worthy?¡±


    The question contained sarcasm wrapped in a friendly smile. Ah¡­ Giselle understood where this was going in the end. She sipped the remaining mocktail in her ss. At least she still had the courtesy of not wasting what was brought to her, right?


    ¡°If Justin thinks I¡¯m worthy of showing off his work at SEO¡¯s annual show, then that means I¡¯m worthy of wearing Justin¡¯s designs. And not only did it make me famous, but SEO¡¯s brand and sales after the show were fantastic.¡±


    Charlotte wiped away her smile. ¡°Could it be that Justin is judging because of what you did to get that position?¡± she approached Giselle who she thought was haughty and notorious for belittling others. Just because Giselle was at the peak of her poprity? Oh my! It wouldn¡¯t be long before Giselle¡¯s era would also change. And Charlotte made sure it was her. Many brands have asked to work with her, she has also participated in several selection shows and her agency has contacted many fashion houses to work together. the higher the name she gets on social media, the greater the chance of getting a lot of work.


    And most importantly, it can rise to the pinnacle of poprity that many other models aspire to.


    ¡°As a model, isn¡¯t it normal to apany the agency owner to have fun in order to get the top spot?¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    The mocktail ss that was in Giselle¡¯s hand, was ced rather tightly on the table. fortunately, even though it was made of ss, the coating material was thick enough to withstand Giselle¡¯s rather haphazard behavior. the sound of the ss shing with the ss table, at least made several pairs of eyes turn towards her.


    Does he care?


    Absolutely not.


    Since they were a bit apart, and Charlotte seemed surprised by Giselle¡¯s actions, Giselle took the initiative to lean towards her interlocutor. ¡°If I did apany Justin to have fun, isn¡¯t that my business? Why do you want to know so much? Do you want to get the secret of how to subdue the SEO CEO who is famously selective for his models?¡±


    Charlotte¡¯s hands were firmly clenched. her eyes stared intently at Giselle who was now smiling cheerfully.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you, Charlotte. It¡¯s my pleasure, really, you can rx. I like to share how to have fun with men.¡±


    Either the remark was taken seriously, or Charlotte really wanted to get into the SEO agency, because the girl seemed to be waiting for Giselle to continue. Giselle felt likeughing at the face that was filled with curiosity but exorbitant prestige. Tsk! Why try to use her of doing things that were beyond her reasoning? She wished she could do what Charlotte had just said, but s,ing closer than Giselle did, Justin immediately raised the bar as high as he could.


    Since Charlotte didn¡¯t take any distance at all, it made Giselle grin triumphantly. The girl hadpletely fallen for her bait.


    ¡°Justin doesn¡¯t like having fun with girls like you, Charlotte. Just get rid of the idea that you can attract Justin¡¯s attention with dirty tricks like that. You¡¯d better use the time during quarantine to train to be better. Just like me. We¡¯re the same, stillcking experience, but at least I want to go up in an elegant way. Not by opening my thighs as wide as possible in front of a man. It¡¯s no fun having fun with an empty heart.¡±

 [22]

    After saying that, Giselle chose to stay away. Letting Charlotte stare at her sharply and her breath roar in annoyance. didn¡¯t care if during the quarantine and running activities here, she suddenly made new enemies. Instead of making friends, she was stirring up hostility. Her own fault made her upset and could not hold back the flow of words that had already been spoken.


    Ah, but Giselle was quite calm because Justin didn¡¯t set any targets for her here. She was only asked to follow the steps well and not to disappoint the SEO. That¡¯s all.


    ¡°Looks like someone made a new friend,¡± someone said with a chuckle.


    That obviously made Giselle turn around and when she found out who wasughing, Giselle chuckled. Her steps didn¡¯t slow down at all, choosing to head towards a ce that served drinks and some sweet treats. She didn¡¯t care if theughing girl followed her.


    After Giselle downed the refreshing mineral water that cooled her heart and mind, her eyes immediately wandered around. Still the same as before, there was arge crowd of contestants around her. But she was in no mood to join in. There was a sense of reluctance and at the same time, it seemed that almost all pairs of eyes were directed at him. Staring andughing, who knows what they were talking about, Giselle didn¡¯t care.


    Even the figure who wasughing at him earlier.


    ¡°Looks like you were right.¡± Don¡¯t ask Giselle why her feet led her to step closer to the girl she didn¡¯t really like. Apart from the fact that her gaze was always cynical, it also seemed that the girl¡¯s words provoked Giselle¡¯s emotions.


    ¡°What¡¯s right?¡± asked Harvey without bothering to look at the other person.


    ¡°Boring.¡±


    Harveyughed. ¡°You just talked to that girl, right? How can you say boring? You guys should be getting along like the rest of the group over there.¡±


    Giselle scowled. ¡°I don¡¯t need a lecture from you.¡±


    ¡°When did I act like a religious leader?¡± Harvey wasn¡¯t about to let go of hisughter. He finished off the can of soda he had been enjoying, which made Giselle frown in surprise.


    ¡°You¡­ didn¡¯t get scolded by your agency for drinking soda?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡± Harvey ced the can on the edge of the table. so that it couldter be seen as trash that he had collected in the same spot. there was no trash can nearby but he hoped that the staff on duty could see it. ¡°Soda is fine if you don¡¯t consume it too often. Rather than me getting drunk tonight from alcohol? I don¡¯t want anyone to take advantage of my drunkenness for their own personal gain.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed but when she looked in the direction Harvey was pointing, she understood what he meant. Some of Ford¡¯s top brass were there, joking around and spending time with some of the contestants. As Giselle can guess, apart from chatting about the activities that will take ce in the next two weeks, there must be a hidden purpose that is mutually beneficial.


    ¡°Guess¡­ among them, who will be the champion?¡±


    Giselle grinned. ¡°You¡¯re really asking too many questions.¡±


    But for what Giselle just said, Harvey wasn¡¯t angry. Instead, he joined in theughter that Giselle created.


    ¡°We bet?¡±


    Their eyes finally met, staring at each other and considering what was about to happen. Harvey¡¯s hand stretched out first, which was immediately warmly weed by Giselle. Perhaps others who saw it, thought they were just shaking hands to get acquainted as usual. Little did anyone know¡­ they were making a gamble in this night of banquet and intimacy.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know her name but I bet on the girl in the red dress.¡±


    Harvey nodded with a faint grin. ¡°Always remember his name; Kristen John. That¡¯s the name you¡¯re betting on to win this event. You¡¯ve got a pretty good eye for it, too. Not just any model, but Kristen has worked with foreign boutiques several times and has made quite a name for herself here.¡±


    ¡°Are you alone?¡±


    The girl looked back at the crowd in the center of thisrge space. ¡°The girl in the blue dress.¡±


    ¡°There are two, you can¡¯t see clearly, can you?¡±


    ¡°Why does talking to you feel so annoying?¡±


    Giselle folded her arms across her chest. ¡°Isn¡¯t that you? Or are you judging yourself?¡±


    Harvey chuckled in annoyance. ¡°Light blue, blonde, the one to Kristen¡¯s right. Are you satisfied?¡±


    Giselle burst intoughter. ¡°It feels like a familiar face.¡±


    ¡°Holder of a jewelry brand; Jems Jewerly. You know, right?¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Giselle snapped her fingers. ¡°I remember now. His face was featured in several articles discussing the quality of the diamonds there.¡± She looked at Harvey who was still staring at the person they were talking about. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Why am I not sure?¡± Harvey giggled. ¡°What¡¯s the betting material if I win?¡±


    Giselle gaped. ¡°You¡¯re taking this gamble seriously?¡± asked Giselle with a look of disbelief. Fortunately, the shocked expression on her face was quickly dispelled. Otherwise, Giselle¡¯s face would have looked strange and attention-grabbing.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you serious?¡± Harvey waved his hand lightly. ¡°Are you afraid to make a bet with me?¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Afraid? Of you?¡± Giselle snapped in disapproval. ¡°I just find it ridiculous that this gamble could be turned into a gambling-like event.¡±


    ¡°Since when is a gamble free? Nothing in this world is free. Even if air could be traded by humans, it would have been done a long time ago.¡±


    Giselle still wore an unepting face but since she was being mocked in such a way by Harvey, she couldn¡¯t stand it either. ¡°What are you risking?¡±


    Harvey grinned slightly. ¡°Um¡­ what, huh?¡±


    ¡°I just got thetest bag collection from Horn Design. It¡¯s semi-ssic but I assure you, you¡¯ll love it. I¡¯m making that bag a gamble.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Harvey quickly retorted. ¡°I know the price, dummy. What we have at stake is the title. And the prize those crowned will get is three times the price of the bag. I don¡¯t want it.¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡± Giselle squealed in disbelief. ¡°What exactly are we talking about, anyway?¡±


    ¡°Well, are you deaf or what? We¡¯re talking about stakes, right? You¡¯ve aimed at the target, I have too. So that leaves us with what to bet on. I don¡¯t approve of that bag you proposed. I have the same thing at home. I¡¯m not willing to ept the same thing.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s in it for us?¡± asked Giselle, her arms crossed over her chest.


    ¡°Nothing. just witnessing the excitement of our thoughts just now. that they¡­ chose to sell her body instead of striving to advance with her skills as a model.¡±


    Giselle could only shake her head in wonder.


    ¡°You¡¯re backing out?¡± asked Harvey immediately. ¡°That sucks,¡± she said with a teasing smirk. ¡°I just found out that Giselle is afraid to make a bet.¡±


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s continue.¡± Giselle leaned in slightly. ¡°You¡¯re so confident in winning that I¡¯m willing.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, besides being a coward, Giselle is quite arrogant.¡±


    ¡°Shut up,¡± Giselle snapped unhappily. ¡°If I lose, I¡¯m willing to be your assistant for two weeks. I asked my agency for special permission to take two weeks off after finals night. I¡¯m sure that permission will be granted.¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± Harvey looked surprised but thenughed happily. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Giselle unhesitatingly nodded. ¡°But if I win, you must obey me to meet someone.¡±


    Harvey¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°You¡­ set me up, huh?¡±


    ¡°Where did ite from?¡± Giselle grinned mysteriously. ¡°Are you afraid now, Harvey?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good.¡± Harvey was not to be outdone. ¡°Who¡¯s afraid of this gamble.¡±


    ¡°Not just meeting, but switching agencies. How¡¯s that?¡±

 [23]

    ¡°You,¡± At the other end, Justin let out a long sigh. ¡°Won¡¯t it cause troubleter?¡± Once again, the man asked because the conversation he had been having with Giselle had ended with the subject of the bet.


    ¡°Why should it matter?¡± asked Giselle with an amused giggle. ¡°You just rx, I¡¯ll win.¡±


    ¡°Why would you do such a crazy thing?¡± Justin still couldn¡¯t believe it, how could Giselle do such risky things? Not Giselle at all ording to Justin.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Giselle rolled over for a moment. her body already wrapped in the nket, wearing cozy sleeping pajamas, she was actually preparing to fetch drowsiness. But the excitement of Harvey agreeing to her gamble made her hesitate to fall asleep.


    It¡¯s better to talk to Justin first because his job here is to get close to Harvey.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s that girl¡¯s behavior that keeps stirring up my emotions,¡± he said honestly. But what he says is true. Harvey is Giselle¡¯s patient tester.


    ¡°What about you being annoying sometimes? Brina and Nico rarelyin to me, but I know they¡¯re depressed because of your silliness and stubbornness.¡±


    ¡°Is it true?¡± Giselle had no idea that she had the same thing as Harvey. ¡°No. It¡¯s all made up. I know you¡¯re backing me into a corner, Justin. It won¡¯t make much difference to me.¡± Giselle tried to deny it. There was no reason like the one Justin had given. It was good.


    There was another long sigh in Justin¡¯s voice. ¡°Whatever you want, the important thing is that you know the risk of risking two weeks with Harvey if you lose.¡±


    ¡°Take it easy,¡± Giselle sat in the center of her bed this time. She was very excited. ¡°I¡¯m sure I won. I saw that girle into the room with Director Ford.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d better get some sleep, Giselle. It¡¯s alreadyte. Tomorrow, you have a busy schedule, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Giselle frowned. ¡°I still want to talk, Justin. I¡¯m all alone with no one to talk to.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re usually alone too, right?¡± Justinughed. ¡°We¡¯ll continue tomorrow. There¡¯s still a lot of work waiting for me to finish soon. And remember one thing before you start tomorrow; keep a safe distance lest someone take advantage of you.¡±


    ¡°Aye-aye, Captain.¡±


    Not long after, the phone line was disconnected. Leaving Giselle feeling lonely again. Since she had returned to her room, she had not done much other than clean her face full of makeup, put on skin care at night. Even the TV program she had turned on earlier was nothing that could make her feel a little entertained.


    ¡°So bored,¡± sheined as she hugged her pillow. Her eyes tried to close and she unconsciously counted the sheep one by one. Hoping for drowsiness toe but damn, none of them worked. ¡°Should I take some sleeping pills?¡±


    Before she could do anything about it, the sound of knocking on her bedroom door made her jump. ¡°Damn it! Who¡¯s disturbing me at this time of night?¡± she pulled back the covers and rushed to the door. Checking through the hole in the center of the carved door to see who his guest was thiste.


    ¡°That girl ispletely crazy!¡±


    Harvey at Giselle¡¯s door. Holding up two cups of coffee that seemed to have been bought at the cafe in the lobby of the hotel, he smiled cheerfully and without any guilt.


    ¡°Are you out of your mind?¡± snapped Giselle with a displeased look.


    ¡°Do you want to sleep already?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Giselle huffed in annoyance. Her eyes shed back and forth at Harvey sharply. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Inviting you to coffee.¡± Harvey grinned guilelessly. ¡°Come on, I know you haven¡¯t slept. I thought I was a kid you could trick so quickly.¡± He slightly pushed Gisell to get inside.


    ¡°You are indeed a colonizer!¡±


    Harveyughed. ¡°You can talk all you want.¡± Since Giselle did not object to Harvey¡¯s presence, the girl continued to move in. She sat on the sofa as if she was the owner of the room. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you like, but this is atte. Not too strong a coffee vor. So we can sleep in peace if we get sleepy.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°I don¡¯t have any snacks. My snacks were confiscated by the assistant who dropped me off earlier.¡±


    ¡°Want augh?¡± Harvey chuckled and handed Giselle her coffee cup. ¡°Just enjoy this.¡±


    ¡°I need chocte.¡±


    ¡°I need some candy.¡±


    The two of them turned to each other and stared for a long time, thenughed together. ¡°Ah¡­ it turns out that we both have a sweet tooth.¡±


    For some reason, Giselle felt that even though Harvey was annoying and asionally talked down to her, there was sincerity there. Some of the conversations between them just happened without anyone feeling forced or feeling superior. More often than not, their conversations are about ces to eat, fun shopping areas, and ces to spend time without too many distractions.


    ¡°I think we can be good friends,¡± Harvey said as he got up from his seat. Before he knew it, they had been chatting for two hours without pause, and it was fun. It¡¯s carefree, doesn¡¯t leave an impression of annoyance or irritation, and just flows.


    ¡°I guess so.¡± Giselle smiled cheerfully.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you tomorrow at our¡­ uhm, I guess less boring activities.¡±


    Giselleughed, which infected Harvey as well.


    ¡°Thank you for the coffee. I¡¯ll treat you to hot chocte next time.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God! You better serve me coffee. I don¡¯t really like chocte.¡±


    ¡°That sucks,¡± Giselle spluttered. ¡°Chocte is the ultimate stress reliever.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say. I¡¯m going back to my room. Tomorrow is going to be a long day.¡±


    Giselle nodded and let Harvey leave her alone in the room. It didn¡¯t matter, she was also feeling a bit tired and sleepy.


    ncing at the clock, it was already eleven at night. It was time to get some shut-eye because as Harvey had said, tomorrow was going to be a long day. And as the girl¡¯s back disappeared behind the door, Giselle only hoped that their friendship was indeed established with sincerity.


    Isn¡¯t having one sincere friend better than having hundreds of people know them?


    ***


    Morning, Giselle.


    Have a great day. I can¡¯t wait to see what you do today.


    AK_


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. her brushing activities stopped for a moment. she cleaned her mouth where the foam remained and then continued cleaning her face. Giselle ignored the message again because why respond? What was the need for Andre to send her messages on a regr basis, just because Giselle allowed him to apany her? Even that was because of Justin¡¯s orders, for God¡¯s sake. How to exin to Andrew that Giselle only wants to do what Justin tells her to do.


    But it seems that the words that Giselle has said have been ignored.


    After cleaning up, Giselle got ready. Wearing a T-shirt that wraps her body tight as she canplete with ck jeans. Not to forget her face she polished light make up because today¡¯s schedule, practicing steps on the catwalk and posing in some pretty difficult angles.


    As a professional model, Giselle is required to be able to adjust to the situation including the ce and the clothes worn as part of the photographer¡¯s shots. Do not let as a model, it actually damages the image and intention of the design of the clothes that they will wear at certain events.


    ¡°Good morning, Miss Giselle,¡± Daisy greeted as soon as Giselle opened the door. ¡°I just wanted to make sure you weren¡¯tte for breakfast.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°I know my schedule, Daisy. You don¡¯t need to bother like that.¡±


    ¡°Not really,¡± the girlughed. ¡°It¡¯s my job to apany the models so that they don¡¯t encounter any problems during the quarantine.¡±


    Giselle just nodded, not wanting to interrupt much because that was Daisy¡¯s job during this event. ¡°Besides me, who else are you apanying?¡±


    ¡°Miss Harvey, who happened to be at the dining table earlier. Miss Charlotte, when I came to visit her room, she was preparing. Also Miss Kristen.¡±


    Giselle let the information evaporate. She just needed to know, and once she knew it, she didn¡¯t really care other than to try to keep her distance from the people here. Just enough. No need to get too familiar except¡­ maybe Harvey?


    Who waved excitedly when she saw Giselle enter the dining room.


    ¡°It looks like you¡¯ve been waiting, Miss Giselle,¡± Daisy said happily. ¡°I¡¯m d all the participants feltfortable and were able to get acquainted. You are indeed ssy models who are friendly and kind.¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Giselle wanted to refute but instead she pulled out her best move; smiling as sweet as honey, hiding what was bubbling in her heart. because she was beginning to find out, most of them, were full of falsehoods. As proof, one of them approached Giselle and blocked her way.


    Charlotte mpe.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Giselle calmly.


    ¡°I want to talk,¡± he said, pulling Giselle¡¯s hand away rather roughly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like drama. My stomach hasn¡¯t been filled with anything yet, don¡¯t ruin my mood with your useless babbling.¡±


    Charlotte growled in annoyance. She came closer while whispering to Giselle even though her heart was in her throat. She hadn¡¯t forgotten what Giselle had saidst night.


    ¡°I gave you a warning. Be careful with Harvey. She¡¯s a sneaky girl. You could be harmed by her here!¡±


    Giselle squinted suspiciously.


    ¡°I will exchange information about Harvey in the past. As a contestant, you should be looking for other contestants¡¯ information.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need anything like that.¡±


    Charlotte scowled in annoyance. ¡°Because you haven¡¯t felt how to be hurt by your own partner.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why,¡± Charlotte paused her words. Her eyes shed with triumph that she had managed to influence Giselle. ¡°I want to exchange this information.¡±


    ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Charlotte puffed out her chest even more. ¡°Be an SEO model. You can do it for me, right?¡±

 [24]

    ¡°Miss Giselle,¡± called one of the hotel concierges. In his hand was a bouquet and arge red paper bag. ¡°There¡¯s a delivery for you.¡±


    Giselle has just finished a seminar on social life that is increasingly developing. Although there are good and bad impacts, but knowledge about the life around them must be known together. and the spotlight is also on public figures like them. do not let there be missteps that mostly smell of promotion or behavior in everyday life, because nowadays, a content quickly bes viral. There is a bad side as well as a good side.


    They must be good at sorting out what is easily epted and does not cause controversy.


    ¡°For me?¡± asked Giselle in surprise. Originally, she had wanted to go back to her room. Just to unwind before going back to her activities at two o¡¯clock in the afternoon. Lunch had been served by the organizingmittee but Giselle wasn¡¯t in the mood for a hearty meal just yet.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Miss. It was just delivered by the shop.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed even more. she epted despite being a little surprised, who would send flowers like this? and as expected, the delivery soon became a topic of conversation among the contestants. Some of them immediately asked questions but others, whispered in a gossipy tone. Giselle was the only one who received the delivery on the first day of Miss World.


    ¡°You earned one star today.¡±


    That remark immediately earned a sardonic nce from Giselle. As she entered the elevator that would take her to the floor where her room was located, Harvey entered. Carrying a water bottle that he had already drank almost half of.


    ¡°Are you jealous?¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Harvey chuckled. The elevator doors were left closed even though there were still a few people who wanted to get in. Harvey himself waszy with annoying people like them. Fortunately, Giselle didn¡¯t hold the button to keep the door open and let the others get on. Maybe her hands were already struggling with the flowers and paper bags.


    ¡°Some say you¡¯re a sly girl.¡± Giselle pushed aside the question in her mind, which she also seemed to know the answer to regarding the sender. There was a card in the bouquet of flowers in her hand. The initials on it made it clear who had done such a crazy thing. Giselle would probably give him a warningter. Was it because the man¡¯s message was never replied to that he attracted Giselle¡¯s attention in this way?


    How annoying.


    ¡°So if I¡¯m sneaky, our bet is off?¡± asked Harvey, looking at Giselle humorously. ¡°Looks like you¡¯re in trouble. Need some help?¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have to ask. As a cunning friend, you need a high level of sensitivity.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Harveyughed. ¡°Even though you¡¯re sneaky, you need me, right?¡±


    Giselle spluttered. She handed over therge paper bag in her hand. It was quite heavy but she couldn¡¯t check it now. maybe when they were in the room Giselle would check it immediately. while also sending a message to the sender, don¡¯t carelessly send things like this. oh my! Not even two weeks had passed, she was already the center of attention.


    ¡°Do you know some of the contestants here?¡± asked Giselle, which coincided with the sound of the elevator indicating that their destination floor had arrived.


    ¡°Not much,¡± Harvey stepped out first, waited for Giselle toe out, and walked along together. ¡°But for the most part I know what she looks like.¡±


    ¡°Not far from a wolf in rabbit¡¯s clothing, right?¡±


    Harvey¡¯sughter had already erupted. ¡°Well, you¡¯re learning fast to understand what they¡¯re like.¡±


    Giselle grinned slightly. her steps stopped right in front of her bedroom door. She quickly opened it and invited Harvey to enter. Needing no prompting, the girl had already waltzed into Giselle¡¯s room. It made the owner scowl but she quickly closed the door without protest.


    ¡°Where do you put flowers this big?¡± grumbled Giselle in the end. The bouquet was beautifully arranged, seductively red in color, and fragrant as a rose. But Giselle was at a loss as to where to put this bouquet of flowers. if it was carelessly ced, it would only make the bouquet spoil.


    ¡°Ask Daisy to find a container. Maybe a tall ss so you can put it on the table over there,¡± Harvey suggested, which made Giselle look thoughtful.


    ¡°Before that, I have to make sure the sender doesn¡¯t do anything else.¡± Giselle quickly picked up the cell phone in the small bag that was never far from her. Just as she was about to type a message, a message came in first.


    +6790944***0:


    Did you like what I sent? How did the cookies taste? Is it to your taste?


    ¡°Tsk!¡± Giselle spluttered but then, reached for the paper bag Harvey had ced on the nightstand. It was true what the message said; it was chocte cookies that she loved. Oh, not to forget the chocte-based sweets that were pretty much in the paper bag.


    ¡°Oh my, so it¡¯s food?¡± Harvey was surprised too. He looked at the contents of the paper bag one by one and finallyughed. ¡°From your management?¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Giselle clucked in disapproval. ¡°If they knew, they would have asked me to get rid of it. Even my cookie jar that I brought from my apartment was confiscated when I arrived yesterday.¡±


    Harvey couldn¡¯t stopughing. ¡°But now, you¡¯ve hit the jackpot.¡± He took one of the jars, opened it without permission and ate it immediately. ¡°This is delicious.¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡± Giselle snatched away the jar in Harvey¡¯s hand. ¡°This is mine.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Harvey continued chewing. ¡°I¡¯ll help you finish it. It would be fair if we gained weight together.¡±


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Giselle scowled but then she gave the jar back to Harvey. ¡°Just for you. There are two more jars.¡±


    ¡°Friends for coffee tonight.¡±


    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re right.¡± Giselle soon sat down beside Harvey. She savored the chocte cookies, which were not too sweet but were very pleasant to her taste buds. Giselle wanted them over and over again until she finished the whole jar if necessary.


    ¡°We should have lunch, Giselle. Cookies don¡¯t fill you up.¡± Harvey quickly closed the jar. ¡°Did you thank the sender? I think you know who sent these, right?¡±


    I want to protest, but what Harvey says is true. They need a filling lunch because the activities until the afternoon are quite exhausting. You don¡¯t want them to get sick because of ate meal.


    ¡°Do I have to thank you? I¡¯m a bit annoyed actually.¡± Giselle wiped the remaining cookie crumbs in her mouth with a tissue. Her eyes fell on the bouquet of flowers that still caught her attention. ¡°If it was in the apartment, I would have disyed it on the dining table. The roses are beautiful.¡±


    ¡°Annoying or not, at least you appreciate the effort. After all, there¡¯s nothing to lose by thanking people who pay attention to you, right? You¡¯re benefiting here anyway. The jar that was confiscated, was reced several times over.¡± Harveyughed. ¡°Come on, we¡¯ll have ate lunch together. We have to get along with the wolf pack.¡±


    ¡°You,¡± Giselle shook her head in surprise. ¡°You didn¡¯t suspect me of being one of the wolves?¡± She quickly typed a reply message. There was no need to be long-winded, just short and it seemed understandable since Giselle was busy with many activities today.


    Giselle. N:


    That¡¯s it. Thank you for the cookies and flowers. Unfortunately, the bouquet didn¡¯t have a proper container.


    In addition, Giselle also sent a photo of the bouquet of flowers she was holding as proof that she had received all her deliveries. It¡¯s true what Harvey said, he should still be grateful.


    ¡°No wolf asks its prey if it is the sneaky one.¡±


    Giselle quickly caught up with Harvey after making sure the door was locked again. ¡°I was actually wondering,¡± She was already at Harvey¡¯s side like before. Which is where her words this time, get Harvey¡¯s attention.


    The girl nced at Giselle as if waiting to see what Giselle would say next.


    ¡°How many enemies do you have in this event?¡±

 [25]

    ¡°Nindy, to my office,¡± Andrew said as he opened the door to his office slightly. Creating an opening that he could use to watch the assistant work. Although Nindy had been working for him for two years and had survived until this moment, but still sometimes the mistakes she made were enough to irritate Andrew.


    Even so, Nindy is someone who can keep up with Andrew¡¯s fast and concise way of working with minimal errors. At least the assistant was reliable and didn¡¯t have to change as often as when he first set foot in The Coge. ording to Andrew, the assistant who would help him with his work was ipetent.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Nindy hurried to grab one of the notepads she usually carried before entering Andrew¡¯s room. The boss was used to talking at top speed. She couldn¡¯t miss any important orders including the schedule changes that Andrew sometimes arbitrarily changed.


    ¡°Sit down,¡± Andrew ordered without looking at his assistant who had stepped into his room. Whichmand was immediately responded to with a nod by Nindy. Even her hands were ready to take notes on whatever came out of her mouthter. ¡°Did you send a package for Nami?¡±


    ¡°Already, sir.¡± Nindy opened her notes quickly. ¡°Received by security and I have confirmed that the package is already in Miss Nami¡¯s hands.¡±


    Actually, Andrew didn¡¯t even need that information. The reply message from Giselle that made his heart happy, he didn¡¯t know how many times he had read it. He couldn¡¯t hide his excitement at the reply message from Giselle, but still, in front of the staff, he had to behave.


    ¡°For the next day, send a bouquet of flowers along with a vase that can be ced in her room.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir. For the bakery, will it be sent again?¡±


    Andrew thought for a while before he grinned slightly. ¡°Rece it with something else as long as it¡¯s chocte. I¡¯m sure you can be counted on to find the best one.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll send you references to stores around the Ford building to make it easier for you to send a gift to Miss Nami.¡±


    Andrew nodded in understanding. ¡°And now, about Unique. Is there any recent news?¡±


    Nindy quickly took out a shdrive from her pocket. ¡°I have gathered everything here along with the confirmation of each ce. They all confirmed the presence of Mr. Carlton and this Mysterious Lady.¡±


    Andrew quickly picked up the shdrive that was handed over. Examining it for a moment and pulling the corners of his lips up even more. ¡°When are we scheduled to visit Unique?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow afternoon, sir. An appointment has been made with Mr. Carlton¡¯s side.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± He picked up one of the files piled up on his desk. ¡°Submit this document to the finance department. And please call the team of journalists handling the case of the mining areawsuit in West Union.¡±


    Nindy nodded immediately. Rushing out of Andrew¡¯s room because there was nothing more to talk about. The task that she found a little strange was to give a regr gift to a figure named Nami. Although she knew that the figure was a model that people were talking about; Giselle Namizuka, but still she found it quite surprising.


    The record of cold, expressionless man had been held by the boss since his arrival to rece the previous boss. He rarely talks unnecessarily. He always takes things seriously and is busy in front of his worksheets. Sometimes, during busy times, he would stayte toplete some projects. Interaction with both male and female staff was rare. As an assistant who is said to often apany the boss wherever he goes, in fact for Nindy, he is more often sitting at his desk.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    The boss prefers to mind his own business.


    So it was a miracle to find out that the boss was interested in the opposite sex. At least it disproves the notion that Andrew Kingston is a normal, single man with really high tastes.


    In the meantime, Andrew¡¯s cell phone again caught his attention very strongly, not because of the new message or the notification of the offer from the bank that he often ignored. But once again, his hand unconsciously opened the window of his conversation with Giselle. Complete with a photo of a beautiful bouquet of flowers and Giselle¡¯s hand that he recognized very well.


    ¡°Looking forward to meeting you, Nami.¡± She immediately put her cell phone back down. He immediately gathered his concentration that had been shattered. Perhaps because his mood was at its highest, it was not difficult to start the work that had been paused due to many things. Including looking at the cell phone containing the photo that Giselle sent for him.


    It was up to people to give her strange looks, but her heart was bursting with excitement. Thinking about the day when she would be invited as a guest on the final night of the prestigious event made her want to reach that day immediately. But that was impossible, right?


    No sooner had he finished one piece of work that was scattered across the table than his cell phone demanded his attention. Although he had a little hope that it might be Giselle calling, but it was ridiculous to think that. When he nced at it, Carlton¡¯s name appeared on the screen.


    His smile suddenly appeared. Although he had to give up his excitement because of Giselle, he had one thing that could be used as a moment to reap a lot of profits. Not being sneaky, but a businessman must know when to exert effort and when to rx with the desired order.


    He often maniptes the news for certain purposes. But there is one thing he doesn¡¯t want to do: expose the truth rted to justice and humanity. He dislikes violence and human rights vitions.


    ¡°Afternoon, Carlton,¡± Andrew greeted as he leaned back in his oversized chair.


    ¡°Did you get what I wanted?¡± asked the man on the other end sternly.


    ¡°Take it easy. My people are looking for information, so don¡¯t doubt its validity.¡±


    Carlton chuckle. ¡°Our agreement is still the same. I don¡¯t want any news about me to spread.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s easy,¡± Andrew said. His back straightened and he chose to leave his chair. Standing in his favorite spot; close to the window in his office. There was a clear view of the activity on the main street with its many tall buildings. ¡°You want to discuss it on the phone? Wasn¡¯t my request clear yesterday?¡±


    ¡°Can you confirm that almost all media outlets don¡¯t report that?¡±


    Andrew chuckled. Someone was losing money because of the news in his hands, indicating that something was being hidden very tightly. Finding out who the woman was beside the man whose name was bing publicly known as the sessor to Charles Dominique.


    ¡°You can do it, Carlton. I have no problem asking my other colleagues for help, as long as you fulfill my request.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine as long as I¡¯m free from the media chasing me.¡±


    Andrew grinned slightly. ¡°To be clear, we¡¯ll discuss it at the meeting tomorrow. You made the appointment, right? Or do you have other things to do?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Carlton said simply. ¡°Let¡¯s take care of this first.¡±


    ¡°All right. The client¡¯s wish is a job for us.¡±


    Not long after, the phone line was disconnected. Leaving Andrew still staring at the activity down there. The sound of horns and the roar of passing vehicles seemed to be a lively sound out there. Since the windows in his room could not be opened carelessly, Andrew just enjoyed the view from a height.


    The smile that was there earlier had been reced with a t expression. ¡°In this world of masks, don¡¯t you get tired?¡± she asked softly. ¡°A covered-up affair, huh?¡± Andrew grimaced. ¡°As tightly as the media covers it up, there¡¯s nothing to hide from a wife¡¯s intuition. It¡¯s just a matter of waiting to see when it alles out. You could say¡­ I¡¯m nurturing a time bomb.¡± He left where he was standing. Choosing to return to work because he had a lot to aplish.


    Before his ass had even settled into his oversized chair, his cell phone demanded his attention again. An iing message that made him pause.


    Old.


    Old Man:


    Dinner at home. Don¡¯t shy away. There¡¯s Fania and no shame. Hurry up your engagement. We need Fania to grow The Coge. Dolls have no right to speak.

 [26]

    The two names of the contestants, Giselle and Harvey, are indeed eye-catching. Not only because their faces are already familiar with the world of modeling and many brands that work with them, but they are also quite interesting to keep an eye on. Some Ford officials often meet them, either during coffee breaks, or most tantly after dinner.


    ¡°Looks like I won the bet,¡± Giselle said as she picked at her steak. Chewing with eyes that rarely moved from Kristen¡¯s figure who seemed to beughing merrily. with her group that felt sickening to Giselle. But she had to hold back the expression of wanting to vomit seeing it all, ka?


    ¡°Says who?¡± Harvey chuckled. The menu he chose for dinner this time was not as heavy as Giselle¡¯s. Just half a portion of spaghetti and lean grilled chicken. Next to Giselle¡¯s steak te, there was still a generous amount of cheese-studded baked macaroni.


    Harvey sometimes wonders about Giselle¡¯s stomach and metabolism; she¡¯s a chocoholic, she eats a lot, but there¡¯s not a speck of fat on her slender frame. But that was also true for Harvey. To make matters worse, he¡¯s a big fan of fizzy drinks, although he limits them severely because they¡¯re not good for his health.


    ¡°Just look,¡± Giselle pointed with the tip of her chin. ¡°He¡¯s more familiar with Ford¡¯s higher-ups. And you?¡± She coughed but her eyes blinked with excitement. ¡°Prepare to lose.¡±


    ¡°As long as it hasn¡¯t been announced on the final night, the chances of me winning the bet are still high, Giselle. Don¡¯t get ahead of yourself.¡±


    Which Giselle cares about.


    This is already her fourth day of quarantine. There are many new things that make him enthusiastic. His knowledge is increasing rapidly and spurs him to find out about the world he is in now. especially the motivation to be a much better and useful person for most people. including people who need work.


    I don¡¯t know, this spurred Giselle to think about what she could do in the future that would be more useful and fun to do. It¡¯s impossible for her to always be at the top of fame. There will be new faces that continue to emerge even though their flying hours are still standard, but if honed with hard work like Giselle did, nothing will be impossible.


    She believes that every effort will not betray the result. The proof is that she did not expect to be in the crowd of people who were actually hypocrites in Giselle¡¯s eyes-some. There are also those who do make the quarantine time to forge themselves much better. So out of quaranter, although not carrying a trophy, there are impressive things happening here.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Giselle finished her meal. ¡°but I can¡¯t wait to introduce you to the person I want.¡±


    ¡°Your girlfriend?¡± asked Harvey, who was still chewing although not too eagerly. Perhaps the effect of the monthly guest who visited at an inopportune time, made his mood quite disturbed.


    ¡°I wish I could think of it that way.¡± Giselleughed sadly. ¡°Come on, speed up your eating. You look like a mess.¡±


    Harvey blinked in disbelief. He had notined about anything and was as rxed as ever despite the pain in his stomach. His eyes were no longer looking at the girls they were betting on, but at Giselle with an unreadable look. But then, he smiled slightly.


    ¡°You¡¯re stepping aside from thepany here to keep mepany, Giselle?¡± asked Harvey before they moved away from the table where most of the dinner menu had already been devoured.


    ¡°What did I do that for?¡± Giselle grinned faintly. ¡°I don¡¯t do well with people who have the intention of getting to know me. I also don¡¯t like being asked to agree with them when ites to hating something. And I have my own life choices in friendships. Satisfied with what I said?¡±


    Harveyughed, but then winced. He quickly held his hand over his painful stomach and it felt like he was bleeding quite a lot.


    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go to the room. I think this afternoon¡¯s delivery was coffee.¡±


    Harvey¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Are you sure? Not chocte you can warm up?¡±


    Giselle shook her head immediately. ¡°I asked for a special coffee for you,¡± Giselle whispered cheerfully. She embraced Harvey, who immediately refused. Although their steps rushed out of the dining room, there were still disagreements. Like now, where Giselle thinks Harvey is annoying.


    However, after four days of quarantine, their friendship is getting closer. In fact, many other contestants wanted to join their friendship because it looked exciting. Even so, Giselle and Harvey still maintain a safe distance. Not too familiar and not too eager to interfere in their personal affairs. In fact, those who initially approached because they had certain intentions were alienated as if they were just invisible dust in the gathering between the contestants.


    ¡°Have a good rest everyone,¡± Giselle greeted and waved before actually exiting the dining room. Where there were several models that she knew quite well and were friendly. Even helping her if there was something difficult to do.


    ¡°See you tomorrow, Giselle, Harvey,¡± they greeted Giselle in unison. And because of this too, Harvey smiled widely. also waved because he felt that it was not bad to be friends with them. not all of them had to be boring in their behavior. Although there were some who were annoying during the quarantine activities.


    ¡°But I¡¯m curious about the person who often sends you packages. Your boyfriend?¡±


    Giselle chuckled in annoyance. ¡°I told you never to ask me silly things like that.¡±


    Harvey shook his head in surprise. ¡°It¡¯s a waste for that guy to send you a gift with no ties to you. Uh, or is it your fan?¡±


    Giselle waved it off immediately. ¡°Do you want coffee or not? We have a drama to finish because there¡¯s a lot to do tomorrow. Color training makes me dizzy but it¡¯s fun.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really enjoying things here, aren¡¯t you?¡± Harvey stepped into the elevator that had already opened.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I see.¡± Giselle smiled broadly. ¡°Doesn¡¯t that apply to you?¡±


    Harvey let out a long sigh. ¡°This is the second time I¡¯ve been to an event like this. to me, the rundown is the same. not much different. I¡¯m sick of it actually.¡±


    As for what Harvey had just said, Giselle had no idea. She was stunned to hear what he had just said.


    ¡°My agency¡¯s target is at least third ce or favorite choice.¡± Harvey grinned slightly. The sound of the elevator signaled that their destination floor had arrived. Waiting for the elevator doors to open, he steps in front of Giselle. ¡°I don¡¯t know why I¡¯m tired tonight, Giselle. I guess having coffee can wait until tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°You think the coffee that came to me hasn¡¯t been brewed?¡± Giselle scowled in displeasure. Once again, she embraced Harvey, not caring if she was brushed off and lectured again. Maybe it was because many people had seen them earlier, maybe it was because Harvey did not like this kind of closeness, but for what Giselle was doing now, she did not get any rejection at all.


    This made Giselle smile cheerfully.


    ¡°We¡¯ll spend the night in your room. You just wait, I¡¯ll see youter. You don¡¯t mind, do you? Don¡¯t make excuses for being tired, Harvey. You¡¯re not very good at masking your inner turmoil.¡±


    Harvey chuckled. ¡°I just found out, what did the fat on your body turn into?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± asked Giselle with a suspicious look.


    ¡°Your bones are getting heavier and heavier. I think everything is absorbed into your bones, which are so heavy that they fall on my shoulder.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± screeched Giselle in disgust.


    ¡°But it¡¯s the truth, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°There is no such thing.¡±


    ¡°There is. The evidence is that your hand bones are very heavy.¡±


    Giselle really wanted to ruffle Harvey¡¯s hair. But since Harvey¡¯s smile is back and he¡¯s starting to shake off the sadness of the elevator conversation, at least what Giselle did can ease the burden on Harvey¡¯s heart.


    Just before Giselle walked into her room, ready to take the snacks sent by the same person, as well as the coffee she felt good enjoying while watching the drama, she said, ¡°My ears are still functioning properly to hear about the agency¡¯s target for you. Care to share?¡±

 [27]

    Justin is still fixing the wrong parts of his design. It doesn¡¯t matter, he has plenty of free time in between his other activities. He also has ns to open a new branch of his boutique. Maybe after this year¡¯s show is over. So all his energy and focus is temporarily on the show that he has to prepare for with ease.


    ¡°Maintaining achievements is difficult,¡± Justin slightly corrected the line on the arm. He thought for a moment before picking one of the colors that would work well together as an initial sketch. For the selection of colors on the fabricter, he had to discuss with the other teams to reach amon desire. Advancing SEO is not just on his shoulders. Justin wants everyone involved in SEO to work together to build and make this office big and unshakable. Including the welfare of employees and opening up as many jobs as possible.


    ¡°The easy one is snatching.¡± Justin let out a long sigh. He was reminded of the show that had unexpectedly gained so much poprity even though he could have predicted it. Giselle¡¯s face, which was blessed with a beauty that mesmerized people, was one of the triggers besides the designs he made forst year.


    Thepetition in his business is not non-existent; in fact, it is very strong, especially during the changing seasons. In addition to many fashion houses offering discounts and thetest designs, Justin¡¯s rivals also often hold exhibitions with other top models.


    ¡°Sir,¡± Irena just walked in. There was no need to knock because she had a lot to report. After all, the boss didn¡¯t close the door, a sign that he could be interrupted whenever his staff needed approval or discussion on a particr matter.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Justin without turning around. His concentration was still on the drawing that was still being nned. But his head was already envisioning how this outfit would look in full form. Worn by the right person, and released to the public at the right time. Then¡­ it was certain that what he had achieved with Giselle would be repeated. In fact, it might even skyrocket as SEO¡¯s name bes more publicly known.


    ¡°The factory was overwhelmed to handle the orders that came in a week ago. Lilith wanted them delivered immediately because there were so many orders.¡±


    ¡°No way,¡± Justin said firmly. ¡°We do eptrge orders for certain products, but those products are still under the auspices and supervision of SEO. We don¡¯t want anything bad to happen even if the product is cheap. I don¡¯t like the idea of disappointed people wearing SEObels out there.¡±


    Irena pursed her lips.


    ¡°You can¡¯t give that reason?¡±


    ¡°I did, sir,¡± Irena sighed. She pulled up one of the chairs in front of Justin¡¯s desk. ¡°But for that very reason, I got yelled at by LIlith.¡±


    The pencil Justin held, stopped carving lines on the sheet containing the final design that he would soon turn into a dress with a simple cut but representing once independent woman.


    and loves freedom. ¡°What did you say?¡± The pencil was ced on the side of his book. His face was no longer rxed, his eyes sharp at the assistant who was looking down.


    It seemed like that remark had angered Justin.


    ¡°Nothing. I didn¡¯t say anything.¡± It would be better for Irena to get out of the room rather than listen to something unexpected, which might cause her heart to stop. Justin wasn¡¯t one for waiting around and was happy to take big risks.


    This included breaking Giselle¡¯s contract with a club that, ording to Irena, was asking for a lot of money with such a fantastic figure. Irena¡¯s persuasion about just recing Giselle with another model ended in a long lecture and Justin¡¯s dislike of her decision being challenged. Even though Irena knows that Giselle is beautiful and fits what she wants for the show, but¡­


    Indeed, the results were unexpected.


    ¡°I¡¯m not deaf yet, Irena. Once you speak, my ears can hear it even at a radius of tens of kilometers.¡±


    Irena spluttered. ¡°I already told Lilith¡¯s side the reason. I know it¡¯s outrageous but I think we should increase the production speed a bit. I¡¯ve surveyed several ces that produce products on arge scale, their targets are twice what we make in the factory.¡±


    Justin gave Irena an annoyed look. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be argued about quality. I don¡¯t want the SEO name to disappear in a short time. This is thest warning to Lilith, if their side is impatient and continues to insist on speeding up, even though the contract and during the initial discussion has been exined, we stop production for them. we still have a lot to do, right?¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Justin!¡± Irena gasped in disbelief. ¡°That¡¯s very risky.¡±


    Justin waved softly, asking Irena to leave his room. ¡°Call Brina. I need news about Giselle during quarantine.¡±


    Irena frowned. ¡°I know about that.¡± She took out her cell phone. She showed Justin some portraits of Giselle with a figure that immediately made Justin smile.


    ¡°The two of them get along well even though they fight almost every day. I don¡¯t know what they¡¯re arguing about but there¡¯s also a lot of fun between them.¡±


    Since the phone was lying on the table, Justin could freely look at the many photos on it. His interest was piqued and his enthusiasm grew to finish the rest of the day¡¯s work. Tomorrow, he was left to go to the factory to match the colors after a deal with the relevant team.


    ¡°She managed to get close to Harvey. But how did you get this news? Giselle never told me about her progress with Harvey.¡±


    Irena shrugged. ¡°I think Giselle has something going on over there.¡±


    Justin nodded in understanding. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter who gives me news like this. I can count on Giselle.¡±


    ¡°But Justin,¡± Irena straightened her back. The cell phone that had gotten her boss¡¯s attention was back in her hand. Justin didn¡¯t want the photos of the two beautiful girls Irena had gotten specifically from the assistant who had helped Giselle during quarantine. Irena was good friends with the girl and luckily, Daisy could be her informant.


    Including her knowledge of the mysterious figure who often sends Giselle gifts. Irena guessed, it was all from Justin. Given the intimacy created between Giselle and her boss, it¡¯s not impossible that they are secretly in a romantic rtionship, right?


    ¡°But what?¡± Justin took out his cigarettes. Tucked one between his lips. He didn¡¯t care if the room would be stuffy with cigarette smoke, he needed to rx for a moment before refocusing. To avoid anything chaotic, he carefully ced the design sheet in a drawer. Feeling it was safe, he lit the end of his cigarette.


    ¡°I got word from a trustworthy person about Harvey¡¯s agency.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Fresh Fashion?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Irena looked at Justin intently before starting to speak, although she was unsure whether she should say it or not.


    ¡°Monochrome suits Harvey, Irena. Do you doubt me moving forward?¡±


    Irena shook her head firmly. ¡°Absolutely not. But Harvey¡¯s agency is notorious for using underhanded methods to release models. We have to prepare ourselves to spend a lot of money to get Harvey to join us. Especially since SEO¡¯s name has been talked about a lottely, right?¡±


    Justin took one long drag on his nicotine stick. Then he puffed smoke in the other direction from Irena. He still had his manners when it came to smoking even though he knew Irena would still be affected by the smoke. But he was sure their conversation wouldn¡¯t take long.


    ¡°A cunning person must be dealt with in a cunning manner, right?¡±

 [28]

    ¡°You seem to get a lot of deliveries,¡± Charlotte approached Giselle who was enjoying her cup of tea. Today¡¯s activities were not too taxing on Giselle¡¯s head and energy. All she had to do was create a questionnaire with a critical tone for a public social institution. Including abandoned children who should be protected by thew and directed to be better individuals.


    Unfortunately, it¡¯s just a discourse. As a public figure, social issues like this can have an impact if they mobilize their supporters out there. As well as erging his name through activities that are much more useful in the eyes of themunity.


    ¡°Do you want it?¡± asked Giselle casually. She adjusted her sses because now, they were outside. ording to Giselle, this break was more rxing than if it was done indoors. It felt fresher when filling the air in the chest. Also, the fatigue that hade over her earlier, slowly disappeared in the wind.


    Charlotte sits next to Giselle as she sips. In her hand was also a cup that she filled with coffee. ¡°Why would I want something sent to you?¡± But her eyes were fixed on Giselle who seemed to be casually enjoying the time. ¡°You¡¯re really close friends with Harvey? Did you ignore my warning?¡±


    Giselle, who was originally enjoying her cup of tea, suddenly lost her appetite. She put the cup down more roughly than she should have. If the person in front of her had understood that she was disturbed, she might have stepped aside and left Giselle alone. Unfortunately, the girl Giselle was talking to right now had already lost her shyness. I don¡¯t know. What was clear was that Giselle didn¡¯t like it when her short free time was interrupted by talk that led to silliness.


    ¡°You just came here to ask something you already know the answer to.¡±


    Charlotte smiled faintly, her arms crossed over her chest as she looked at Giselle more intensely and didn¡¯t want her to ignore her existence. ¡°She¡¯s a troubled girl. You¡¯ll have something to lose if you get too close to her. I had good intentions so that you could participate in this election peacefully. But you took me for granted.¡± Before she was abandoned by Giselle, it was better for her to get out of the way. Even so, she was already quite content to make Giselle¡¯s face not as cheerful as usual.


    There was anger and resentment at his provocations. If Giselle wants to know how troubled Harvey Princessa is, she will reveal it without skipping a single part. She will not lose to Harvey. Charlotte believes Harvey approached Giselle as a stepping stone.


    Who doesn¡¯t know SEO Fashion? Many models want to work with them, but unfortunately, it¡¯s not easy to get the contract. Aside from having to work hard and have a high level of experience, SEO bosses are very picky.


    ¡°If he harms me, I¡¯m fine with it.¡± Giselle rxed again. Feeling that Charlotte would be leaving soon, why should she bother looking for a ce to unwind? After all, this nosy girl with nothing to do hade to her.


    ¡°Woe!¡± Charlotte stepped away. ¡°You must have been eliminated from SEO.¡±


    While in another corner, Harvey, who had just been discussing the group assignment that would be done after the coffee break, only stared in surprise at Chatlotte¡¯s departure. ¡°What does that girl want?¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Harvey,¡± Kristen said with a big smile. it helped that Harvey was smart enough toplete some of the tasks at hand. actually being a model is not only about beauty and physical perfection. But thinking and intelligence capacity must also be honed. Unfortunately, Kristen doesn¡¯t want to bother herself to do so. As long as there are other people who can be used easily, why should she bother.


    ¡°No problem.¡± Harvey returned the smile no less graciously. ¡°I¡¯ll go to Giselle¡¯s ce first.¡±


    ¡°You guys are really close, huh.¡± Kristen pped her hands lightly. ¡°Did you even bring the snacks?¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°I guess so.¡±


    ¡°Were you made her servant because there was no assistant who was never far from Giselle¡¯s side?¡±


    Kristen¡¯s question just now made Harvey lose his smile. The hand carrying the te with the chocte muffin he thought Giselle would like was ced back on the table. But then, he pulled back his smile despite the horrible look. ¡°If I¡¯m really the waiter, do you have a problem?¡±


    Kristen chuckled. She gently shook out her beautiful blonde hair. ¡°Instead of being Giselle¡¯s servant, wouldn¡¯t it be better to be around me? You¡¯d be very useful by my side, Harvey. I can make you no less famous than Giselle.¡±


    Harvey still maintained his smile. ¡°Thank you for the offer, but I¡¯m not interested. Let alone fame in a way that I find so disgusting.¡± He moved closer to Kristen who did not move from her position. It was as if she let herself approach easily and waited to see what Harvey wanted to talk about. ¡°I¡¯m not willing to get a job and poprity from opening my legs as wide as possible in front of men.¡±


    Kristen¡¯s hands were clenched tightly. her face was bright red. She wanted to scold and rage at Harvey but she tried her best to remain calm. ¡°Are you offending yourself?¡±


    Their eyes met each other¡¯s. There was a terrible lightning that shed between those gazes. neither one would budge, and it was not immediately decided who turned their gaze to where. flickering with emotion in each of the eyeballs of these two beautiful girls.


    ¡°You think I don¡¯t know what you used to do, Harvey? Flirting with a married man? Until they get divorced?¡± Kristen whispered smugly. She giggled, feeling victorious over Harvey¡¯s first taunt, especially when she saw the pained look on his face. Perhaps no one would have thought that a little secret, ah¡­ a big secret that if the media and the public knew, who knows what would happen to the career of a Harvey Princessa.


    Maybe dead?


    Unfortunately, that thought was broken by Harvey¡¯s calm demeanor. The jet-ck haired girl grinned faintly. ¡°If I were you, I wouldn¡¯t say something as bold as that.¡±


    ¡°You started it!¡± snapped Kristen impatiently. ¡°Or are you admitting that this is the real Harvey?¡± Then Kristen¡¯sughter erupted, making many pairs of eyes stare at them in wonder.


    Harvey gave Kristen a gentle pat on the shoulder, indicating that they were having an intimate and casual conversation. A perfect distraction from Harvey when many people are watching them. At least, he avoids the unwanted; a bigmotion.


    ¡°If you know I can do something like that, you should start preparing to lose. I¡¯m good at ying many roles in front of men. I¡¯m afraid Mr. Zachary would be interested in me if I flirted with him. And you¡­¡± She picked up the te with the muffins. It looks like Giselle is still sitting there, rxing after being pestered by Charlotte. And why is Harvey being pestered by someone else now?


    He stepped closer again and whispered to Kristen who seemed to be roaring with annoyance.


    ¡°And you should prepare to lose this year¡¯s Miss World title candidate,¡± Harvey said, punctuated by a thin, meaningful grin. He continued to walk back to where Giselle was sitting, letting out an annoyed growl from Kristen while muttering as quietly as possible. ¡°It¡¯s good to talk. Grabbing someone¡¯s husband? Cih!¡±

 [29]

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you toe to an event like this.¡± The girl who looked elegant wearing a white midi dress with a cape studded with expensive sequins, seemed to be enjoying the evening atmosphere in this spacious house. ah, no. not just spacious, but grand and arguably luxurious. The dimly lit garden lights added to the atmosphere of the ce where they spent their time, after the boring dinner.


    ¡°That expression should be for you.¡± The interlocutor gently swayed the wine that was hispanion. Sipping slowly, savoring the liquid that slowly greeted the tongue. The sweetness and bitterness were bnced creating an intoxicating harmony. But the man rarely allowed himself to be controlled by wine. He only enjoyed savoring the vors of the wine that was one of his father¡¯s collections in this house.


    ¡°I have to meet my fianc¨¦ after three years,¡± the girl said tly. Her eyes gazed up at the dark night sky which, although beautiful with stars, could only be enjoyed by her from a distance.


    ¡°You¡¯re not happy?¡±


    The girl turned her head, looking at the man with an unreadable expression. Then she chuckled. She didn¡¯t care about the night breeze that suddenly hit them. there was a bit of curiosity she had, rted to the attitude of a man who should be warm to the opposite sex. Unfortunately, she had too high expectations. The man sitting beside her didn¡¯t care. Instead, he was engrossed in his ss of wine as if he was not here.


    ¡°Why would I feel happy? My work in Manchester has been disrupted.¡± He prepared to go inside. The wind was quite cold, she didn¡¯t want her return to her hometown to end up in the hospital. The clothes she wore weren¡¯t too warm either.


    ¡°You want to go back inside already?¡± asked the man-Andrew chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t want to keep mepany for a while longer?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Fania Langham would not withdraw her desire to go back inside. ¡°It¡¯s quite cold in here. I¡¯m with a man who ispletely insensitive to the plight of women.¡±


    ¡°Why would I do that for you?¡± Andrew still maintained his sillyugh. ¡°Go inside and have a good time listening to the many lectures on marriage. Also find a good excuse to postpone our wedding.¡± He downed the remaining wine. Leaning backfortably on the chair he was sitting on, not caring if the girl actually carried out her intentions.


    ¡°Take off your zer then! I¡¯m cold,¡± Fania snapped fiercely. She facepalmed with a look of disapproval because what Andrew had just said was the reality of what would happen if she stepped inside. It sounded scary but that was what would happen if she left Andrew alone in this ce.


    Fania didn¡¯t want to get herself into trouble. She had to keep dragging Andrew along no matter what because really, her return this time wasn¡¯t to agree to the engagement. Who would want to marry a man as annoying as Andrew? Never!


    If it wasn¡¯t for their parents¡¯ long-established business, there was a project they wanted to pursue that involved both of their children. As sessors, there was nothing they could do butply. Especially for Andrew, who was in a position where it was impossible to argue. Not yet. He still had a lot of things to think about if he openly denied whatever his father wanted.


    Fania was no different. If she didn¡¯t do what her parents wanted, all her activities in Manchester would have to stop. Meanwhile, the beautiful girl still needed a lot of support from her parents. For how long, Fania didn¡¯t know, but she kept trying not to hurt anyone, including her own heart.


    ¡°Put it on,¡± Andrew said as he took off his zer. He returned to staring at the sky, which was still as dark as it had been since he and Fania had first arrived in the park.


    ¡°You¡¯re too much,¡± Fania murmured as she put on the man¡¯s zer and found itfortable. Warm and much better than before.


    ¡°Next time choose clothes that fit in the month before winter. That¡¯s something you don¡¯t know.¡± Andrew snorted in displeasure. He cast a quick nce at the girl who had returned to sit beside him.


    But it seemed to have fallen on deaf ears as the girl became engrossed in her cell phone. But Andrew didn¡¯t care. He could have done the same but one thing Andrew knew; they were being watched. Either way, Andrew knew there were many pairs of eyes on their closeness. As if one wrong report could get them, no¡­ get Andrew in big trouble.


    The dinner, whichsted an hour, ended smoothly. ording to them, Andrew or Fania¡¯s parents. But to both of them, the dinner was like a legal verdict they didn¡¯t want to go through with. From the beginning, Fania and Andrew had agreed and thought that in the future, things would change and their parents would no longer be so insistent about marriage.


    Unfortunately, that thinking doesn¡¯t apply. It¡¯s just more suffocating and they can¡¯t break it down easily.


    ¡°We need to figure out how to end this ridiculous rtionship, Fania,¡± Andrew said in a slightly serious tone. Andrew¡¯s words drew great attention from the other person.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Fania replied, pocketing her phone again. ¡°Sorry, I have to reply to a message from my lover.¡±


    ¡°Ugh!¡± Andrew patted his chest lightly. ¡°You hurt my feelings, Fania. I¡¯m your fianc¨¦e but you cheated on me behind my back.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy,¡± Fania sneered sarcastically. ¡°But you¡¯re right. I agree with you about us ending this crazy rtionship.¡±


    ¡°I just found out that a shydy like you has a lover.¡±


    Fanis looked at Andrew with a re. ¡°You think I can¡¯t feel love?¡±


    Andrew chuckled. He had gotten the information about his fianc¨¦e down to the root. It wasn¡¯t difficult to know because he worked in a ce where such trivial things could be obtained easily. Even about the cooperation that would be established if their marriage actually happened. All she could do now was dy, until Andrew found a way to settle things without the need for marriage.


    ¡°How fortunate your lover is,¡± Andrew said with sincerity.


    ¡°You know?¡± she asked with a look of disbelief. But then, her amazement quickly vanished. ¡°You found out about her? To make me even more immobile from Mommy¡¯s watchful eye?¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯m that sneaky?¡± Andrew shot Fania an annoyed look. ¡°I still have my limits when ites tomitting crimes. And what you¡¯re using me of is quite annoying, Fania.¡±


    Fania¡¯s lips closed immediately. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Andrew chuckled in annoyance. ¡°Forget that conversation. Let¡¯s focus on canceling this wedding immediately. You don¡¯t want to marry me either, right?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡± Fania said confidently. That was the honesty in her heart. Her acquaintance with Andrew had been quite casual. She chose another man, one who was not in the business world. But loved things that fascinated Fania. As an art lover, working in a museum in Manchester, meeting photographers was an everyday urrence. But this lover of hers, captivated Fania in such a simple way.


    Admittedly, Andrew¡¯s face is much more handsome than his girlfriend¡¯s, but what¡¯s the point of being handsome if their rtionship is just that. There is no warmth, no deep love, and no mutual understanding in it. Beautiful or handsome, over time it will fade. But love that continues to warm and has a strong bond in the heart, will be maintained until death separates.


    ¡°Do you have a n?¡± asked Fania with interest.


    ¡°Nothing but I want our family business to continue without this ridiculous marriage. What¡¯s the point of having a marriage if there can be cooperation?¡±


    Fania nodded in understanding.


    ¡°How many days will you stay in this city?¡±


    Fania¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°Why would you ask my schedule? After all, this is my hometown and Mommy has assets here too.¡± She folded her arms across her chest. Her eyes narrowed suspiciously at the man who tapped her lightly on the forehead.


    ¡°Talking to a stupid girl can¡¯t be quick to respond.¡±


    Fania¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°You can bet we¡¯ll have to attend events or spend a lot of time together. You know, to get to know each other better after three years apart.¡±


    Fania let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°I didn¡¯t think of that.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I said you were stupid.¡±


    If punching Andrew in the head was allowed and something he could do, then he would have done it earlier. If necessary, he would have knocked the man unconscious.


    ¡°Let¡¯s make a deal. You want to be with your lover too, right?¡±


    Without hesitation, Fania nodded.


    ¡°I have something to do too without wanting many eyes watching me.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    ¡°Do you have a lover?¡± asked Fania spontaneously. Making Andrew frown strangely at his interlocutor.


    ¡°Ah, you have a lover apparently. So we have to make an agreement so that our respective meetings can go smoothly. Right?¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say.¡±


    ¡°You know what my lover is like. Don¡¯t you want to share?¡± asked Fania with a curious look. ¡°Come on, tell me what your lover is like.¡±


    Their chatter was indeed observed. Both of their parents seemed to be smiling broadly and with a certain intent after observing the closeness that urred tonight.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize that your rigid son could be so humane,¡± Grace said with a cheerful smile.


    This made Hanry chuckle and look back at the garden area where his son and the girl he¡¯d set up with were still talking intimately. ¡°You are indeed an obedient doll, Andrew,¡± he said to himself.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I guess it¡¯s because Fania is a cheerful person. That¡¯s why it¡¯s only natural that Andrew would be able to shed his stiff demeanor.¡±


    ¡°I hope they can realize that this marriage is important for both of us.¡±


    ¡°I hope so, Grace.¡±

 [30]

    ¡°Looks like you had a good talk,¡± Giselle said with sparkling eyes looking at the te Harvey handed her. The chocte muffins made by Ford¡¯s hotel pastry were the best. Maybe it was because she had noparison since she rarely touched this uniquely shaped and tantalizing cake.


    ¡°You¡¯re like looking at a treasure, Giselle.¡± Harvey chuckled. He took a seat next to Giselle and leaned backfortably. The shady shadows from the trees around them did indeed make the bad mood disappear and be reced with a better one.


    ¡°The muffins here are the best.¡± Giselle didn¡¯t care about being called childish over a chocte cake, but she knew that eating sweets like this could put her in a much better mood. Charlotte¡¯s arrival and chatter dropped her mood on the minus scale.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯m the only one having a good conversation here.¡± Harvey reached for his soda can. ¡°Gosh, it¡¯s like I¡¯m getting a lot of eyes on me forbidding me to drink soda.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s obvious,¡± Giselle immediately grabbed the can in Harvey¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯ve had a few drinks, right? You won¡¯t be able to help yourself tonight.¡±


    Harvey scowled but couldn¡¯t protest beyond folding his arms across his chest. ¡°You¡¯re annoying.¡±


    ¡°Is it more annoying to get the news that you want to cheat on me?¡± Giselle chewed without hesitation the muffin in her mouth. Feeling the softness of the cake that greeted her senses. Not to mention the sweetness of the chocte that was the main ingredient. And what made her blink repeatedly; this muffin was sprinkled with delicious little choco chips.


    Oh my! Giselle wanted to eat them all. It just so happened that Harvey had brought three muffin cups. It¡¯s enough to energize her to get back to her activities before lunch. Coincidentally, the event after the coffee break was quite exciting and certainly energizing. The issue of social life has been discussed togetherplete with questionnaires that will be thrown to other teams.


    For Giselle, who is not too smart but has a heart for social issues, at least this session can make her more open-minded and what she will do with everything she has now. Including her poprity. But it must also be apanied by experts so that she does not take the wrong step.


    After the discussion, lunch followed, and then the contestants were asked to practice walking on the edge of the pool in bikinis. This event is one of the assessments regarding body proportions and ideal weight to be a model. And at the end of the event, there was a photo shoot that would be attended by the sponsors. Since Giselle didn¡¯t really care who the sponsor was, she was very rxed.


    ¡°Charlotte said it?¡± Harvey giggled in amusement. ¡°She really can¡¯t move on from the past.¡±


    ¡°What did you do to him that he would do something like that?¡± asked Giselle curiously. Maybe there really was something going on between the two of them. Because Giselle thought Charlotte was the only person who always made Harvey the target of her anger.


    ¡°Um¡­ should I tell you a story?¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Giselle spluttered but couldn¡¯t ignore that here, their time was too short. That¡¯s why she refrained from urging Harvey to talk. ¡°You¡¯re on your own? Your conversation looks fun.¡± Thest piece of the muffin soon disappeared inside Giselle¡¯s mouth. Which was met with a surprised look but soon, Harvey¡¯sughter appeared there.


    ¡°You really are a chocte fanatic, huh.¡±


    ¡°Chocte is a cure for stress just so you know.¡±


    Harvey chose to shake his head in amazement. ¡°My conversation is not far from me being mistaken for your servant.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say that, you idiot!¡± Harvey felt like silencing Giselle¡¯s loud mouth. Several pairs of eyes were immediately drawn to them as if they were fighting. Again. There was even a time when they were arguing about something unimportant, Daisy broke it up because there were reports that they had a big fight. But in fact? Not at all. They were just arguing, which in other people¡¯s eyes, might mean that they couldn¡¯t control their emotions.


    Although Giselle admits, Harvey is the best at making her feel other than rivaled, annoyed to death, but knows best how to vent what is in the heart.


    ¡°I mean, the person who said that is crazy.¡± Giselle grinned guilelessly. ¡°Anyway, where did youe from that you¡¯re my assistant. Gosh, if I had an assistant like you, I¡¯d have a heart attack almost every day.¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯m having fun with you, huh?¡± Harvey scowled in annoyance. ¡°I think Kristen wants the same kind of fame as you.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t he often get high poprity? Because of our bet, I got to investigate the two people we bet on in front of the stage.¡± Giselle straightened her back. ¡°Many well-known brands work with Kristen and their contracts always end up with good sales. Even a local cosmetics brand that is known for being eco-friendly and pocket-friendly has extended their contract with her, right?¡±


    Harvey nodded immediately. ¡°But there is one prestige that cannot be obtained unless it is on you.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed considerably. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°The main model is SEO and that¡¯s hard toe by. Many want to get the main stage at the shows that SEO organizes. Especially when you show up. SEO¡¯s name really counts in the fashion world as well as modeling agencies.¡±


    Giselle nodded slowly as if she understood. ¡°Even though I don¡¯t have any experience with the world I¡¯m in now.¡± She looked down slowly. ¡°Brina and Nico never failed to teach me many ways to make my confidence grow. How to walk on stage without the fear of suddenly slipping on the wrong step.¡±


    ¡°But your hard work is visible to the world, right?¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s so.¡± Then her eyes immediately looked at Harvey who seemed to be smiling faintly as if that smile represented the unrest in the heart of the girl who was unknowingly, close to Giselle, on par with Brina. Normally, it was very difficult for Giselle to be approached or get close to others.


    Apart from the fact that her trust in others was very thin, she was also afraid that someone would take advantage of her knowledge about Giselle¡¯s past and ckmail her. Jilly Adams is a case in point.


    ¡°That means the contestants here have a pretty high interest in SEO, right?¡±


    Without hesitation, Harvey nodded.


    ¡°In that case, why don¡¯t you take my offer?¡±


    Harvey chuckled. He nced at the clock wrapped around his hand. ¡°Come on, the rest of our schedule is waiting. I think the contestants have gathered in that room. Get ready, fake smiles and foulnguage.¡±


    Inevitably, Giselleughed. Imitating Harvey¡¯s steps that preceded her. For once, Giselle again refrains from urging Harvey to speak. She had to pick up her concentration in order to get through the session that was about to begin.


    ¡°You owe me a lot of exnations, Harvey.¡± Again and again, Giselle embraced and dropped some of her body weight on Harvey. making the girl re fiercely but unable to get angry easily because their steps had already arrived at the ce where their activities were taking ce. They might be the center of attention again.


    Even those who are close already make many eyes look at them sarcastically, let alone make a scene. I wonder what kind of gossip they will receive.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t pay off that debt by tonight, I¡¯ll confiscate your soda. It just so happens that Brina rxed the food rules for tonight because I was being obedient. So¡­ I was sent a hot chocte and for you of course, a soda.¡±


    Harvey gaped in disbelief at her words. ¡°Are you serious?¡±


    ¡°when did I lie?¡±


    Harvey¡¯s grin grew wider. ¡°In that case, be prepared to hear me ramble on and on.¡±

 [31]

    Andrew walked confidently into the building that houses the quarantine for Miss World this afternoon. His flight to Mn had been uneventful and his destination wasn¡¯t just Ford either. He can¡¯t let his guard down even though what he¡¯s doing now is for work. Her father was watching her without pause as if she could run away whenever the urge arose.


    Unfortunately, Andrew didn¡¯t want to do it. If he could, he would have done it long ago. With his mother still needing him and the support of the Kingston family, Andrew couldn¡¯t help himself.


    ¡°You have arrived, Mr. Andrew.¡± One of the Ford staff weed Andrew and his team.


    As a courtesy, Andrew nodded briefly with a charming smile. It was fine if his arrival attracted attention, but what was he here for other than meeting some of the event officials to discuss the news that would be rted to the organization of the event, he had other business here. hopefully there was a little time he could get from Giselle.


    Before flying to Mn, he took the time to send Giselle a message.


    Me:


    I have a meeting at Ford today. I hope to see you. Let me know if you¡¯re free. Can you?


    Unfortunately, the message did not get any reply from Giselle. Even though it has been checked several times, Andrew¡¯s chat balloon is still the same. There was only Giselle¡¯s reply message, which was several days old. But it didn¡¯t matter. ignored because Giselle was busy with quarantine, it was still eptable. Especially since Andy¡¯s regr reports said that Giselle was always eager to follow every schedule.


    This includes her new friendship with a model named Harvey Princessa.


    ¡°You guys go see Andy. I¡¯ll catch up with Andy and the team soon and tell him that today¡¯s progress report will be discussed together after my meeting.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Some of the team soon joined Andy and his colleagues who had already arrived. Covering and broadcasting snippets of the contestants¡¯ activities during quarantine. With the quarantine only a few days away and preparations for the big night starting, there would be a lot of things to discuss and talk about including broadcasting rights.


    Miss World¡¯s social media ounts are increasingly crowded withizens who want to support their idols. Several candidates have emerged as favorites of the public and as the owner of an entertainmentpany like this, the movement of Miss World¡¯s social media ounts must always be monitored.


    And Giselle is one of the favorite nominees who is idolized by many. Perhaps aside from her beauty, some of the Q&A sessions that took ce during the activities inside the Ford building, Giselle showed her intelligence. Although sometimes, ording to Andrew, there is still a lot to be improved from her mission or vision towards something.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    ¡°Mr. Woddy is waiting for you, sir.¡± The staffer spoke again and directed Andrew to follow him to the room where the boss was waiting for his guest.


    Andrew didn¡¯t mind if he had to say hello for a while. ¡°By the way, what are the contestants doing today?¡±


    ¡°Dress fitting for the big night. Just in case something isn¡¯t quite the right size and there¡¯s also a photo shoot for the cover story after the awards night.¡±


    Andrew nodded in understanding.


    ¡°Usually Mr. Woddy goes around to monitor the activities. For this quarantine, he never left the hotel. He is always monitoring the models¡¯ activities.¡±


    The man wearing a navy suit from a famous brand could only smile in understanding. As someone who knew many dark secrets of the world of artists, celebrities, high-ranking officials, super models, and many influential people in this country, Andrew knew exactly why Woddy Heckering didn¡¯t leave the hotel. Preferring to work a little on the side rather than sit quietly in his office in the center of Mn.


    Kristen Paulina is the answer.


    Had it not been for Woddy¡¯s considerable influence, news of their affair could have spread quickly. It could have threatened the integrity of Woddy¡¯s household and her position as CEO of the agency that oversees major events such as Miss World.


    Andrew just feels that if the winner is Kristen, it means that cheating really happened in this event. Except, Kristen has thepetence to win through intelligence and many other assessments. Andrew is curious who the judges of Miss World will be this year.


    ¡°Come, sir.¡±


    The door to Woddy¡¯s room was wide open as he weed his assistant and himself in. The slightly built, bald-headed man got up from his oversized chair and greeted Andrew cheerfully.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while, Andrew,¡± she said kindly.


    Which was immediately greeted no less cordially and in his hand, which had been carrying a bag as a gift, he gave it to the owner of the room.


    ¡°Gosh, you¡¯re such a bother.¡±


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°Connie¡¯s cigars are the best. I rmend them to you.¡±


    Woddyughed excitedly. ¡°Hanry¡¯s son has always made me proud. It¡¯s no wonder that my friend has so much hope and trust in me, Andrew.¡± He patted the shoulder of the man standing in front of him proudly. ¡°How is Hanry?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± The one thing she was most tired of; feigning interest when it came to her father. Including everything that the old man had. And passed it down to him with great pride. It was as if the old man had put his full trust in Andrew to manage it well.


    Unfortunately, it was a high level of camouge by the father to maintain his image as the best husband and father in public. Sadly, many people believed and doubted that Hanry could be as ruthless as threatening Andrew to do whatever he wanted.


    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to the big night. All the contestants are excited and I don¡¯t think there¡¯s a single activity that they¡¯ve missed.¡±


    Andrew smiled broadly. ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that.¡± He took out a file that was in his bag. ¡°I hope you¡¯ve studied the preparations for the live broadcast of the final night¡¯s program in advance. As for the crew, the sponsors of this event and I have discussed and divided them into the right corners to get the exclusive news.¡±


    The file was received with a confident look. ¡°I¡¯ll study it first but I¡¯m sure you did your best.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you put a lot of trust in this shoulder.¡±


    Woddyughed. ¡°You¡¯ve always been formal, yes. You can talk in a casual tone with me, Andrew. I already think of you as my closest rtive.¡±


    Not wanting to prolong the conversation, Andrew just nodded. he also chose to wait for the owner of the room to read what he submitted earlier. At least if there was already an official approval, he could just discuss it with the team as the final part. Although most of his team had already been informed, it didn¡¯t hurt to make sure nothing was missed considering this event, a fairly prestigious and important event. Involving many names and invited guests who came were not from ordinary circles.


    The cell phone in Andrew¡¯s pocket buzzed softly. Andrew wanted to ignore it, but it seemed to have caught the attention of Woddy, who was concentrating on studying the file.


    ¡°In case it¡¯s important, you can pick it up first.¡±


    Andrew felt bad about it but he asked for a moment of silence. ¡°Thank you and excuse me, Uncle Woddy.¡±


    When she picked up the phone and looked at who the caller was, ah¡­ wrong. But an iing message from¡­


    Giselle?


    If only he could prance for joy, it would have been done. Unfortunately, this was Woddy¡¯s workspace. He can¡¯t just act like that.


    Giselle. N:


    Eight o¡¯clock, Onion cafe opposite Ford. Come separately. I only have an hour to spare.

 [32]

    ¡°Are you really going out?¡± Harvey asked once again. Scanning the figure of the girl who was still preparing with her cardigan and hairdo.


    ¡°Yes. I should thank him in person for his kindness this week. You know, he¡¯s our biggest supplier of snacks.¡± Giselle giggled amusedly at the thought of a delivery from a man who still made her act wary. She also needed to confirm directly, what the man¡¯s intentions were with this gift that Giselle could still enjoy.


    Including a bouquet of flowers that changes almost every day.


    ¡°But aren¡¯t you too conspicuous looking like that?¡± Harvey was still giving him a questioning look because of his friend¡¯s appearance. Without Harvey realizing it, their rtionship was developing rapidly. No one could resist their closeness, which had developed in a strange way.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me wearing a wig? It¡¯s a good thing Daisy lent it to me,¡± Giselle said proudly. She gently shook her short, straight, neatly styled hair. It made Giselle¡¯s face somewhat camouged. Also the box-framed sses she got from Harvey.


    ¡°You look weird.¡± Harvey sighed softly. He savored his cup of coffee again as he sat on the edge of the bed. He had intended to spend the evening watching the rest of the drama with Giselle. But unfortunately, his friend had some business for a while. Instead of going back to the room, Harvey would rather watch another movie while waiting. It¡¯s nothing, their hour-long meeting outside has made Harvey¡¯s heart beat a little harder.


    The organizers were quite strict in keeping the models from leaving the building. Except for the very urgent business that required them to leave the hotel. As far as Harvey knew, no one had left the hotel lobby just to enjoy an evening with a cup of coffee at the cafe opposite.


    For the first time, it was Giselle who did just that.


    Acting like any other hotel guest-outside of the contestants, she disguised herself so as not to be easily recognized. It was a brilliant idea, but what she chose to do was very conspicuous. It¡¯s notoriously tacky and makes others take notice. Not Giselle for once when ites to choosing the color of her clothes.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s better to be weird than to be in the news foring out of quarantine and meeting Andrew Kingston.¡±


    Harvey choked violently. His chest hurt and his nose stung. He had to pull out a lot of tissues to wipe the coffee from his mouth. It looked so disgusting that Giselle frowned in surprise.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    ¡°You want to meet Andrew? Andrew Kingston, owner of The Coge?¡±


    Without hesitation Giselle nodded. ¡°Do you know him?¡±


    Harvey immediately stood up and looked at Giselle with a look of disbelief. ¡°So all this time the one sending you gifts was that guy? Andrew?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± giselle chuckled. ¡°How many of Andrew¡¯s names have you mentioned. And if you know him, yes¡­ I am indeed going to see him tonight.¡±


    Harvey is clearly shocked! Who doesn¡¯t know Andrew Kingston. Apart from his family name, he has a huge influence on the news of big figures. He owns a TV channel that contains both national news, broadcasting rights to several important events, including online media that has a sword-like edge. Sharp and blunt. When news about a person¡¯s scandal goes viral in the media in Andrew¡¯s hands, you can be sure that the news will reach all corners. It could be that the person bes the bully of the country.


    And the opposite. If it goes viral due to kindness and positive activities, the figure¡¯s name bes more famous and gets its own benefits.


    ¡°I think he¡¯s just a casual fan.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t consider myself a fan.¡± Giselle sighed softly. ¡°She¡¯s quite troublesome and annoying just so you know.¡±


    ¡°But it fits the rumors, right? His face is handsome? Has a certain charm?¡± Harvey asked with curious blinking eyes. He got closer to Giselle who was now preparing to put on her shoes. The look was no longer Giselle at all but no matter, Giselle couldst for an hour. After all, she feels confident in what she¡¯s wearing.


    ¡°I see.¡± Giselle grabbed the small bag attached to the bag hanger nearby. She checked her luggage once more and prepared to leave. ¡°I¡¯ll leave first. Let me know if Daisyes. I won¡¯t be long, I won¡¯t spend an hour with her anyway.¡±


    ¡°You make me jealous,¡± Harvey said in a dramatic tone. ¡°Andrew is one of those men that many women long for affection like me.¡±


    ¡°What are you, anyway?¡± Giselle chuckled in annoyance. ¡°Should we exchange? You want to meet her, right?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make crazy ideas like that!¡± Harvey immediately pushed Giselle¡¯s shoulder to quickly leave this room. ¡°Go finish your business. And tell me the details of your date. I approve of your rtionship. I¡¯m one hundred percent supportive so that you¡¯ll always be smooth sailing without any obstacles in the future.¡±


    ¡°I reject your hopes outright. I just want to talk, not a date like what you have in your crusty brain.¡± Giselle held back her steps a little in order to give an exasperated look to Harvey who was talking recklessly.


    ¡°Yeah-yeah.¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°There you go. It¡¯ll be meeting time soon. As for Daisy and the agency, leave it to me. Besides, if you meet with Andrew, I think it¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Giselle chuckled but kept her eyes on the clock on her right hand. It was true what Harvey had said; it would soon be time for their meeting. She left the room with some advice. Which Harvey will surely not pay much attention to since the girl is already looking brightly awaiting Giselle¡¯s return.


    ¡°What a hassle,¡± Giselleined as she entered the elevator that had opened for her. Checking her appearance once more so as not to be too conspicuous. Feeling that she had enough, she pressed the G button and let the metal box take her. There were no problems until she walked through the lobby area. Everything was safe and there was nothing to worry about. Actually, Giselle could have told the truth that there was someone she needed to meet, but since the person she wanted to meet was Andrew, she couldn¡¯t reveal that truth.


    ¡°Where is that person?¡± His eyes darted quickly around the guests in the caf¨¦. And when their eyes met, the crease on Andrew¡¯s forehead was noticeable.


    ¡°Na, I mean Gise-¡±


    ¡°Have you waited long?¡± asked Giselle, gesturing not to talk too much.


    Andrew nodded obediently but then chuckled. ¡°You don¡¯t have to go that far in disguise. You won¡¯t get into any trouble just for meeting me tonight.¡±


    ¡°And be in the news because of this meeting? Don¡¯t expect it.¡± Giselle wagged her finger lightly. ¡°Did you order a drink? I¡¯d like a co-.¡±


    ¡°Hot choctte with a slice of brownie?


    Giselleughed at that. ¡°Yes¡­ all right. You know too well what my favorite things are.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve ordered it especially for you, Giselle. And thank you for meeting me during your break. I hope you don¡¯t mind sitting here.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡± unconsciously, Giselle smiled widely. ¡°Thanks for your post, too. I feel excited about quarantine. At least with the chocte treats, I¡¯m looking forward to ending the program soon and sitting in my room enjoying the chocte.¡±


    For a moment¡­ Andrew was stunned. Not just at Giselle¡¯s smile. But the words that came out without burden and soundedfortable to his ears. Without realizing it, a smile formed on his face. At least, in this life of death that he was living, there was something that made him feel that he needed this smile in front of him to continue living.

 [33]

    ¡°Anything aggravating during quarantine?¡± asked Andrew as he sipped his coffee. Ever since his order came, the girl in front of him seemed to be savoring it with gusto.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± said Giselle, still focusing on her food.


    ¡°Slow down.¡± Andrew held out a tissue to save Giselle the trouble of realizing there was a piece of chocte stuck to the corner of her lips.


    ¡°Tethimaa hahih.¡± Giselle didn¡¯t care if Andrew gave her a look of surprise as well as disgust because of her behavior just now. she also didn¡¯t need to cover up how childish her behavior was in front of this man. why? She was in disguise after all, right? No one here would recognize him. Although visitors to this coffee shop can be counted on the fingers, but still Giselel must put up a vignt attitude. Who knows, there are nosy hands who take her photos without permission and spread them without the knowledge of Giselle and her agency.


    Instead, Andrew looked at her admiringly. While the women he often sat with were either talking business or hanging out with for the night, most of them took care of their image and appearance. They are often very particr about the food they put into their bodies. The reason is to maintain an ideal weight.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    In front of her, Giselle doesn¡¯t care. She¡¯s enjoying the chocte served in front of her with gusto and doesn¡¯t care about the many calories and even saturated fat.


    ¡°Three days to the final night. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve prepared well.¡± Andrew started the conversation again. There was so much he wanted to ask but the man held back. It was better to start the conversation about Giselle¡¯s activities during quarantine.


    ¡°It¡¯s normal.¡± Giselle finished her snack. There was nothing left but the crumbs on her te. ¡°Ah¡­ I didn¡¯t know the brownies here were so good. The chocte on top melts with just the right amount of vor.¡±


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°You really are a fan of chocte.¡±


    ¡°Chocte is a pretty powerful stress reliever.¡±


    ¡°Are you stressed out from quarantine?¡± asked Andrew in a suddenly worried tone. He looked closely and scrutinized Giselle¡¯s face to find out, was she really under a lot of pressure in there?


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not. Why should I stress?¡± Giselle frowned. ¡°I don¡¯t have any targets during quarantine anyway.¡±


    ¡°But your name is in theizen¡¯s favorite category.¡± Andrew breathed a sigh of relief. at least his worries were not proven. But even if it did, he would shower Giselle with lots of low-calorie chocte. So that the stress and pressure that Giselle was experiencing, could be eliminated immediately.


    ¡°I know that. Daisy told me about the developments on social media about the quarantine. Some of our activities were also broadcast exclusively on one of the TV channels, right?¡±


    Andrew nodded.


    ¡°And it¡¯s yours?¡±


    Andrew could only grin slightly. He didn¡¯t want to boast that he was still controlled by his father in this matter. He wanted to boast through his own abilities but he couldn¡¯t yet. There was no opening for such actions.


    ¡°You¡¯re a busy man but have the time to meet me here.¡±


    ¡°Ah, don¡¯t you think about tonight. I¡¯m the one who should be thanking you for taking the time to meet me.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°I just wanted to thank in person the man who went to the trouble of sending me a bunch of treats and flowers. Although I¡¯m sure it wasn¡¯t you who went out of your way to do it, right?¡± she lifted her cup of warm chocte. Sipping slowly and savoring the sweet and slightly bitter taste of the chocte base this time, she felt she could enjoy it to the end. ¡°This is delicious. It¡¯s rmended to enjoy it on a cold night.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s long-winded speech was perfectly recorded by Andrew¡¯s head. While thinking, what did this beautiful girl in front of him mean. ¡°Do you¡­ mind if my assistant sends it?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Why do you mind?¡± she blinked in surprise. ¡°You¡¯re busy, right? There won¡¯t be time to take care of something as trivial as sending something here. I¡¯m not going to ma-¡±


    ¡°In the future, I¡¯ll do the shipping myself. I won¡¯t need an assistant anymore. I¡¯ll find the best rmendations for sending you various choctes.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°But I hope you don¡¯t get bored quickly.¡±


    Giselle didn¡¯t understand where he was going with this. So what if Andrew had his men do the work of cing the order and having the bakery deliver it for him. she had no problem with that. Not at all. That¡¯s the truth, isn¡¯t it? Andrew was busy and couldn¡¯t be bothered to make the orders himself.


    But why did Andrew get it so wrong?


    ¡°It¡¯s not a matter of being bored or not,¡± Giselle said with a sigh. ¡°I don¡¯t mind whoever sends the choctes as long as it¡¯s an order from you. It¡¯s just, isn¡¯t it too much that you s almost every day?¡±


    ¡°Why go overboard?¡± Andrew looked at Giselle in surprise. ¡°I¡¯m not bothered. If you object to my assistant doing it, even under my supervision, I don¡¯t want you to be disappointed with the shipment that reaches you. As I said before, I will take care of the delivery for you myselfter.¡±


    ¡°You really got it wrong,¡± Giselle tapped her forehead lightly.


    ¡°I was afraid you wouldn¡¯t like my delivery, Na-, okay¡­ I¡¯m not used to it yet but I¡¯m trying. Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of Nami¡¯s name, I remembered Jilly. How is she doing? Justin didn¡¯t tell me how the case was progressing. I¡¯m quite curious.¡±


    Andrew was a bit bbergasted too. How could the conversation about the shipment be turned around so sharply by Giselle? Who was now talking about Jilly? Tsk! Somehow remembering that name made him a bit sick. Although Andrew admitted, he did benefit from that woman, but¡­ the cost to him was quite high.


    Apart from Giselle¡¯s side, he also received a stern warning from his father. remembering his father too, made Andrew¡¯s heart feel supported further and further. even though in front of him, Giselle was so eager to reach out. However¡­


    ¡°Jilly, yes,¡± Andrew tried to shake off the thought that had juste into his brain. ¡°She was sentenced to ten years in prison with a hefty fine. And another charge of extortion against you was filed by the SEO although it wasn¡¯t aired in public, but the SEO made sure it added to Jilly¡¯s sentence.¡±


    Giselle was bbergasted. ¡°Wow, Justin really doesn¡¯t take kindly to bullies.¡±


    What Giselle had said was true and the horror Andrew had felt. Justin¡¯s influence was quite strong and Andrew couldn¡¯t just ignore it. Remembering all the things Justin had said to him and as he began to prove to Giselle, Andrew didn¡¯t just fulfill his words.


    Giselle¡¯s name is gradually appearing in the headlines as a neer model who is sessful with her career. This includes her activities during quarantine, many of whose photos were obtained from Andy. asionally, he also inserted other names as a diversion above Giselle¡¯s news.


    Because of this, Giselle¡¯s name is gaining more ground in the eyes ofizens as well as her fairly stable position as a favorite model in this emerging year.


    ¡°And I¡¯m still curious, are you going to threaten me with my past again?¡± asked Giselle who could be said to be rxed in her attitude again. Her eyes stared intently at her interlocutor. Her demeanor was also no longer as rxed as the previous conversation. Which made Andrew squint in surprise butugh because of the change in Giselle¡¯s attitude just now.


    ¡°Do I look like that?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I already said I have no interest in doing that bad thing, right? You don¡¯t believe me?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Giselle said straightforwardly. ¡°You have everything. One throw of the news and it¡¯s all over for me, Andrew.¡±


    Andrew was silent.


    ¡°So¡­ please tell me honestly. What is the meaning of all your behavior these past few days? I¡¯m not one to be easily fooled by the sweetness you give me. Like what I like, chocte has two sides; sweet and bitter. And the sweetness that chocte offers is bnced with the bitterness. So what bitterness are you trying to give me?¡±

 [34]

    Harvey looked up at the dark sky tonight but there were no stars at all. Even the moon is nowhere to be seen but it doesn¡¯t matter to him because he just wants to enjoy this night in peace. The cell phone is still in his hand. In his other hand, the soda Giselle left for him no longer tastes appetizing.


    You can still see the message that just came in from his agency.


    Asshole Boss:


    You know what to do. I didn¡¯t expect you to approach Giselle so well. I¡¯m counting on you.


    ¡°Damn that old woman!¡± The soda can was squeezed in one hand by Harvey with great force. He didn¡¯t care if some of the contents of the can spurted out and wet his hands. Also, if Giselle got angryter because the floor was sticky, he could just call the hotel janitor. But at least the annoyance in her heart because of that message was slightly reduced. No, not just a little, but a little because her frustration was really at its peak.


    ¡°Why did I have to be there?¡± Harvey closed his eyes tightly. But the thought of his goal being aplished soon made him choose to persevere. ¡°Just a little more, Harvey. You have to be patient.¡±


    He wiped his sticky hands. The cell phone that was still disying the message was ced unceremoniously on the table. Once it was clean and not sticky, he replied to the message immediately.


    Me:


    Take it easy. You know it¡¯s okay.


    He sits with his back half mmed against the back of the sofa. Even though it was soft, it still hurt a little, but Harvey didn¡¯t care. He massaged his temples to reduce his irritation. I don¡¯t know how many times he breathed roughly, just to get rid of the image of the woman who sent him the message earlier.


    ¡°You should stick to Giselle. Be friendly to her. Then remove her from yourpetition. At least your position shouldn¡¯t shift. You know, Giselle is talked about a lot because of her achievements. Yesterday afternoon¡¯s kid who got picked up by SEO is nothingpared to you, Harvey. You have to show how a model works. Last year alone, you got a lot of work and your name was getting noticed. But because of Giselle¡¯s emergence, your name was eliminated.¡±


    Harvey doesn¡¯t respond to anything Maya, the director of his agency, says. Who organizes a lot of work for Harvey and practically relies on the girl to support the agency.


    ¡°Make Giselle unable to participate in the final night. I think a little ident or nder for her is something you can easily do. I¡¯m counting on you, Harvey. Come finals night, I¡¯ll be there. Witness firsthand what you¡¯re going to do to that girl.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t guarantee that I can do it, Maya.¡±


    At the other end, Maya could be heard giggling excitedly. ¡°I haven¡¯t forgotten about how you eliminated Charlotte and Joana in the same event. I didn¡¯t expect you to actually do it.¡±


    Harvey chuckled in annoyance. ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for your will, I wouldn¡¯t have done it.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s all already happened.¡±


    ¡°And this time I don¡¯t want anything like that to happen again!¡±


    Maya was still there giggling. ¡°It¡¯s unfortunate that you have to do that, Harvey. For what? For the sake of your career that should take off like a rocket. In the modeling world, even the upper sses, perhaps officials, young businessmen, often cheat. Either overtly or covertly to get their way. And what do they get? A lot of profit. And in this case, you benefit the most Harvey. trust me, no one is clean in this world. throw away your holy ideology.¡±


    When his eyes opened, Giselle was in front of him. Staring at him worriedly and somewhat surprised.


    ¡°Are you sick?¡± the girl asked, holding Harvey¡¯s forehead. ¡°But your temperature is fine.¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Where did you get the idea that I was sick, anyway,¡± Harvey quickly swatted away Giselle¡¯s hand that was almost on his forehead. ¡°Are you home yet?¡±


    ¡°Who do you think I am? A ghost?¡±


    Harvey chuckled. ¡°So fast. An hour hasn¡¯t passed yet.¡± He followed Giselle. Trying to get the attention of the girl who was now starting to drop her disguise. ¡°What are you talking about? You owe me a story, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Since when does the story have a hutag?¡±


    Harvey scowled in displeasure. ¡°You once urged me to tell you more. Now?¡±


    Giselleughed but then noticed the mess by the window. ¡°What the hell, Harvey?¡±


    ¡°Oops!¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ll tidy up butter.¡±


    ¡°Now! I don¡¯t like dirty rooms.¡± Giselle shot a fierce look at her friend who was stillughing carefree. But you see, Giselle believed that something had happened while she was at the cafe. She didn¡¯t know what, but she would find out.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s noisy.¡± Not long after, Harvey asked the janitor to tidy up the part he had messed up earlier. It didn¡¯t take long for an attendant to arrive. At the same time, Giselle cleans up and changes her clothes and hairdo, which she finds strange.


    ¡°Well, this way is better.¡± Giselle smiled broadly at her clean room. Although the table where they used to put various foods was still scattered, but at least the dirty part had been cleaned.


    ¡°So¡­ how was your date?¡± asked Harvey as he opened one of the bags of chips that Giselle had brought. It looked like Giselle had taken the time to go shopping. Or did Giselle¡¯s date give them to her? Oh my! How sweet.


    A very decent snack to apany them to continue the drama that was paused.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a date,¡± Giselle spluttered unhappily. ¡°Besides, it looks like someone owes an exnation with the soda on the floor.¡±


    Harvey shook his head.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to share? Didn¡¯t I say, whatever is a burden to me, share it with me. Just like I would treat it to you.¡±


    Harvey sighed softly. ¡°Somehow I wish Kristen had actually won.¡± He chuckled at that. Recalling their betting material on who would be the champion of this event.


    ¡°The chances are very high considering the information I got earlier.¡±


    ¡°Other than Kristen being a mistress, what else do you know?¡± asked Harvey with interest.


    ¡°If Kristen wins, shouldn¡¯t you leave your agency? Join me in SEO?¡±


    ¡°Who said I wanted to join there.¡±


    Giselle folded her arms across her chest. ¡°One should never betray one¡¯s promise, Harvey. whether male or female, a promise is a promise.¡±


    ¡°Yes-yes-yes, it¡¯s up to you.¡±


    ¡°But if you¡¯re hoping Kristen wins, that means deep down you want to work under the same banner as me, right?¡± Giselle asked, raising her eyebrows. She gave a mischievous nce at Harvey, who was still munching on his snack.


    ¡°I guess it wouldn¡¯t hurt to move. I¡¯ve had enough.¡±


    Giselle rubbed Harvey¡¯s shoulder lightly. ¡°What is he demanding this time?¡±


    Harvey put the bag of chips on the table. The soda that Giselle had just bought, still in the shopping bag, he took out immediately. also pulled the hook on the top of the soda can, letting a little water ssh on the hand. Then enjoyed a few sips of the soda.


    ¡°It¡¯s you that he wants to fall.¡±

 [35]

    ¡°What did you bring, Brina?¡± asked Justin as he found the staff he trusted to be by Giselle¡¯s side. Aside from Brina, he also entrusts Nico to give her the best direction in every shoot that Giselle will do. Especially with a new brand, in case Gisellecks the confidence to go ahead and try toplete the coboration well.


    ¡°Cookies.¡± Brina smiled cheerfully. She slightly lifted the paper bag that bore the logo of one of the brands where Giselle often spent her money on snacks. And if Giselle was already inside the shop, it was hard to get her to leave unless she had filled her shopping cart with chocte-colored treats.


    Brina herself wondered, was the girl¡¯s mouth not nauseated by the constant sweetness of chocte?


    ¡°You¡¯re very attentive to him.¡± Justinughed. ncing at the Rolex wrapped around his right arm. ¡°It¡¯s about to start. Are you ready?¡±


    ¡°Ready,¡± said Brina, Nico, and Irena in unison. In the lobby of the hotel where they were staying temporarily until the final night, the facilities as invited guests for the summit night were provided by Ford. A luxury limousine sedan was waiting for Justin and the team to exit the lobby.


    ¡°I think Woddy¡¯s in a very good mood,¡± Justin said when he saw his pick-up car in the lobby, including a Ford staffer who approached Justin. As a good guest, there¡¯s nothing wrong with epting the host¡¯s hospitality, right?


    ¡°Do you think Giselle can get third ce?¡± asked Irena with great curiosity. Her hand couldn¡¯t be separated from her cell phone as she continued to monitor how Miss World¡¯s social media was going this time around. A lot of support was pouring in for Giselle which made her happy. Somehow following all the activities of Giselle and the other contestants that were shared on the online media page and aired live on a separate channel, made Irena excited.


    In fact, they often invite other models to watch because there are some that are shared for free including tips and tricks in terms of practicing the style so that it is not monotonous.


    ¡°I wish it were true.¡± Brina could not wait to arrive at the Ford building. To be sure, it was already full of other invited guests. ¡°You¡¯ve got themp stick, right? I¡¯ve sent a glow-in-the-dark bandana with Giselle¡¯s name on it to the staff watching in the stands.¡±


    ¡°Already!¡± Irena showed me what she had in her bag. This included arge poster that she was ready to fly in support of Giselle. ¡°Even though that girl is annoying, but seeing her struggle during quarantine, I have a little sympathy.¡±


    Justin, who saw their noisy behavior, could only shake his head in wonder. He leaned a little against the door because he chose to sit on the edge, just to observe the night that was gettingte in Mn. After the final, there was still a social gathering that would take ce. And of course, they would return to the hotelte at night.


    ¡°How about you, Justin? You look so normal on finals night. Nothing you¡¯re expecting from Giselle?¡± asked Brina with a curious look. The questioner gave a quick nce and then shrugged his shoulders. It made Brina scowl. ¡°Even though in the interview between their casual activities, I remember that Giselle was designing her own dress to test the extent of her knowledge of fashion. At least if there are any problems during the fashion show, Giselle can quickly ovee them.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes,¡± Irena snatched at Brina¡¯s words just now. ¡°I remember. Giselle was asked about her goals for the big night and she said, I want to do my best for all my supporters. Especially the ones who¡¯ve given me such a great opportunity to be here. Just wait a little longer. I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Justin sighed softly. ¡°I didn¡¯t give Giselle a big target. What for? It¡¯s better for her to have fun and gain experience that will help her in her future career. If Giselle can get third ce, I¡¯m very happy. Honestly, I don¡¯t expect much because Giselle¡¯s rivals are not just any models.¡±


    Both Brina and Irena were silent. Justin¡¯s words just now had some truth to them.


    ¡°Besides, doesn¡¯t setting a target for her sound cruel? Even though she¡¯s just jumped in and has already given me a lot of benefits. I want Giselle to be herself. It doesn¡¯t really matter who bes the champion or finalist. I¡¯m already proud that she¡¯s one of the Miss World contestants. If she wants toe back next year, maybe then I¡¯ll set a target for her.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Brina interjected. ¡°Speaking of Giselle¡¯s activities during quarantine, I think you¡¯re right, Justin. The style director who was their coach during quarantine is not just any coach. I didn¡¯t even realize Ford could bring that guy in.¡±


    ¡°Samuel, right¡± Justin grinned slightly. His eyes returned to the road they were traveling towards the Ford building. His memory was suddenly filled with a man he knew quite intimately. When they were both studying fashion in New York City. Samuel Pranjavesh was a stern man but what he said every time he gave a briefing was really a trigger for someone to keep pushing his skills until he was really good at it.


    ¡°Do you know her?¡± asked Nico with a curious look. ¡°I heard that she¡¯s hard to find unless she has an appointment.¡±


    ¡°We used to be close, but due to the demands of work, we¡¯ve loosened ourmunication a bit. Sam sent me a message saying that I¡¯m very lucky to have a model as beautiful and beautiful as Giselle. Samuel even offered to work with me on a jewelry brand in New Castle. I think we¡¯ll discuss the matterter.¡±


    ¡°You really don¡¯t waste opportunities, do you?¡± Brina chuckled but there was still a certain pride when it came to working with Justin. The man always knew how to find loopholes when it came to cooperation.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way I could waste such a small thing, Brina. Seriously.¡± Justin chuckled. ¡°Did you guys talk about Giselle?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± asked Irena curiously. usually if Justin was a little more serious in his tone, it meant he had something to discuss. But why in the car? Why not before they left?


    ¡°Wish me a sessful mission.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°What mission?¡±


    ¡°What are you nning, Boss?¡±


    But Justin gave no response other than to silence his voice. To the annoyance of the three of them, until their car stopped at the lobby area, Justin didn¡¯t want to make a sound at all.


    ¡°Our boss is too much. We should have known something like this would happen,¡± Nico said, trying to be patient with the sometimes arbitrary Justin.


    Meanwhile, in the dressing room, all the contestants were getting ready for the outfits they would be wearing as part of the sponsorship of the show that would be held in two hours¡¯ time.


    ¡°You¡¯re so beautiful,¡± Harvey praised sincerely. On Giselle, who is wearing a calf-length skirt with a penguin tail cut. Even the leather corset that wraps around the waist makes Giselle¡¯s body slimmer. Not to mention the 1800¡¯s vintage-style blouse with a ribbon sweetener at the neck. Not to forget the boots that covered almost the entire surface of Giselle¡¯s calves. The soles she wore tonight were quite high, but it wasn¡¯t difficult for Giselle to wear them and show them off on the main stage.


    ¡°Really?¡± asked Giselle with a suspicious look. ¡°I don¡¯t really want to take your word for it, Harvey.¡± She stares into therge mirror that shows her reflectionplete with what she¡¯s wearing tonight, while turning slowly to pay attention to any small details she might have missed.


    ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m lying?¡± Harvey chuckled. He adjusted his gloves. Making sure her wavy hair falls in a beautiful bun. It matches the dress she is wearing, although it is a little revealing at the shoulders, but it doesn¡¯t matter. The pearl ne as an embellishment fits Harvey¡¯s skin and neckline perfectly.


    His face was stern but had enough radiance to attract many people to pay attention to him. Which made Giselle stare at him for a while.


    ¡°What¡­ are you doing?¡± asked Harvey, squinting suspiciously. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you want hot chocte.¡±


    Giselle did not respond to the taunt. Instead, the girl moved closer to Harvey, who seemed surprised that Giselle¡¯s behavior was sometimes random and quite absurd.


    ¡°I realized one thing finally,¡± Giselle grinned faintly. Her eyes flickered up and down scanning how Harvey looked in the mini. Other than the right choice of dress, there was something she realized as soon as sheid eyes on the only friend she considered at the Miss World pageant.


    ¡°You don¡¯t give me the creeps, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°I asked you to change agencies for no reason. I¡¯ve seen what kind of designs my boss hase up with and I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll fit you perfectly.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about, anyway?¡± Harvey was getting annoyed.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Monochrome does suit you, Harvey.¡± Giselle pats Harvey lightly on the shoulder. ¡°Come on, you have a chance to rise as high as you can without doing anything underhanded.¡±


    Harvey grimaced slightly. ¡°You know, if it¡¯s that easy then Maya will do many things to take advantage of it.¡±


    ¡°So make the most of Justin. My boss is a good man. He¡¯s a white-winged angel who never demands anything in return. as long as you obey him, Justin knows how to return the money he¡¯s spent.¡±

 [36]

    Maya Varens arrived with her face slightly upturned. As a representative of Harvey¡¯s agency, she was given a special seat in addition to the other invited guests. Just like the other important guests, Maya also seemed to familiarize herself. Feeling that she is also an important part of the Miss World event.


    The opportunity to gain a lot of cooperation was wide open there. He willunch many attacks that sell Harvey Princessa¡¯s name. Especially if the model gets the second or even the first title. Although the champion position is a bit difficult unless Harvey wants to do crazy behavior.


    He grinned meaningfully as one guest after another was warmly weed by the organizers, most of whom were Ford staff.


    ¡°Wee, Mrs. Maya.¡± One of them approached Maya. Like a person with an interest in being among the invited guests, Maya simply nodded slowly, allowing the staff to direct her to a seat reserved for guests like her.


    His eyes scanned the surroundings. There were officialsing with their wives. Many high-profile celebrities were also appearing one after another. Some were national producers and were well known in the international movie scene. Maya was also in the spotlight; owners of start-uppanies and names that always popped up in business magazines as entrepreneurs who have a high role in the country¡¯s economy.


    To coborate with them, apart from needing the right time to talk, they must have considered Harvey¡¯s name as the face that Maya would sell. Then the ie thates in, can further enrich her.


    ¡°Your table is over here,¡± said the staff, breaking Maya¡¯s reverie. Smiling faintly, she nodded and headed towards the ce indicated by the staff.


    Maya greets everyone at the table where she sits. Most unexpectedly, she shared a table with the owner of The Coge; Hanry Kingston and his son.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to be at the same table as you,¡± Maya said with great friendliness.


    As a pleasantry, those at the table greeted her no less cordially. This is very well utilized by Maya to open up a lot of chatter that she will use to lead to one goal; Harvey¡¯s news that must always be on the front porch. Who knows if it will work after all, who doesn¡¯t know Maya?


    The master sycophant?


    While on the other side, Justin sat casually. Enjoying the atmosphere that was getting noisy with many invited guests who began to fill the ce devoted to them to sit and watch, the final night broadcast live on one of the TV channels. Which has gained great attention from the public, eagerly waiting to see who will continue the footsteps of Miss World in the previous year.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Even so, Justin kept a wary eye on everyone who came to say hello. Some are people who have the same business as him. It was also not umon for some of the authorities to start ncing at Giselle to get hertest schedule. Who knows, there might be a perfect time to fill Irena¡¯s tightly organized promotion department.


    ¡°I think tonight will be quite exhausting,¡± Irena said with a long sigh. she had just spoken and discussed with Mr. Jasson. The owner of a cosmetics brand that was starting topete with local products. They deliberately brought a business proposal that could have been done when they were in the office.


    ¡°Have you learned his will?¡±


    ¡°They want a long discussion on the contract price.¡±


    Justin grinned. ¡°It¡¯s good. Giselle¡¯s influence is high for a product. Influencers like Giselle count by the hour. If she doesn¡¯t follow our wishes, I won¡¯t work with her. You know, I¡¯ve had so many projects that my head wants to explode. So don¡¯t give me news about new projects but I want a lot and still have to negotiate first. Unless, there are equal benefits for Giselle and SEO. Then we can talk about it openly.¡±


    Irena had expected that, but still, no matter how small the problem and the proposed contract, Justin had to know. Don¡¯t let his boss find out from the other side, as if Irena can¡¯t work with Justin, whose speed is above normal.


    Once again, Justin cast his eyes around to find the person he was looking for. Even though he seemed to be staring at others with a casual nce, but you know, Justin was seriously observing everything in this room. The chatter and voices of those who sounded not far from business and how to find a way to continue to advance. Whether it was by sneaky or fair means. And most importantly; unting his power in certain areas.


    And when his eyes focused on one point, Justin¡¯s smile was very thin. He took a sip of the wine in his hand. He shook the contents gently just to make himself look rxed and enjoy the evening.


    ¡°Irena,¡± Justin called as he leaned towards his assistant, which immediately got the attention of the woman who was not far from Justin.


    ¡°Yes?¡± Irena frowned slightly because Justin¡¯s eyes were not on her. But why was the boss calling her? To satisfy her curiosity, she followed Justin¡¯s gaze. And just when Irena knew who Justin was paying attention to, he said. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking into that agency. It¡¯s true what Giselle said a while ago. They¡¯re in trouble.¡±


    Justin grinned slightly. ¡°What¡¯s the financial condition of SEO?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll do something desperate.¡± Irena let out a long breath. ¡°I¡¯m trying to make the most out of the canction contract that they can file. I¡¯ve seen a copy of the contract between your model and her agency.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re sure there¡¯s only one year left, right?¡±


    Irena nodded without hesitation. ¡°In addition to Giselle herself telling me, I also looked into the truth. We shouldn¡¯t go forward to negotiate without knowing our opponent¡¯s weaknesses, right?¡±


    The man put down his ss. Heughed at Irena¡¯s words. ¡°You¡¯ve learned a lot.¡±


    ¡°I have a boss whose wishes are sometimes beyond reason. Also, his thinking can be relied upon to bring things down. So I have to quickly get used to his unusual way of working.¡±


    ¡°Are youplimenting or insulting me, Irena?¡± Justin gaped in disbelief. Despite the dim light, Justin could see that his assistant was chuckling at his words. ¡°Your annual bonus is in my hands, Irena. You do anything weird, includingughing at my ideas, and your bonus goes up in smoke.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too much, Justin!¡±


    ¡°It was you who started it. As a strict and authoritative boss, I can at any time use my power to make you do whatever I want.¡±


    ¡°Looks like the show is about to start,¡± Brina said, breaking up their argument. Sometimes, Brina herself wondered why she was stuck with such a casual but responsible work rtionship. Could it be because from the start, Justin liked the way work was fun but struggled with full concentration.


    ¡°Prepare for the worst, Irena. If necessary, let¡¯s ask Andrew for help. It¡¯s not a great sin to use that man once in a while.¡±


    Irena replied, ¡°Yes sir, your order is amand that I must carry out.¡±


    Brina could only sigh at the behavior of the two of them. Hopefully, there would be no more energy-draining additions when they were all in serious, joke-filled mode. Although Brina was not sure, but at least she had prayed.


    Hopefully it wille true.

 [37]

    ¡°Are you tense?¡± Harvey asked, ncing at Giselle beside him. The girl was seen fixing the long dress that she was going to wear in the middle of the show.


    The final night was half an hour ago. It started with a lot of speeches that Giselle and Harvey didn¡¯t really care about. For the most part, they were just pleasantries. But Giselle couldn¡¯t ignore when Andrew came forward as a special guest. Expressing his gratitude for being given the trust to be involved in such a big and grand event.


    What Andrew said was not just talk. The stage, ording to Giselle, was indeed magnificent and luxurious. Apart from the arrangement of lights and the many sponsors involved, it seems that Ford does not want to lose in terms of disying its power as the organizer of the Miss World ss event.


    ¡°Tense?¡± asked Giselle as she finished smoothing the hem of her dress. She didn¡¯t want to get into trouble as she circled the stage and stood among the contestants. The only thing that worried her a bit was that on the left wing, where there was a small staircase connecting to an even smaller stage, all the contestants were required to go around the stage to show off what they were wearing.


    And afterward, one by one, they faced the test of questions posed by the judges. During the waiting period for the judging and elimination rounds, they were all back in the saddle to strut their stuff from the collections of the sponsoring boutiques.


    ¡°Not really.¡± Giselle chuckled. ¡°Maybe you?¡±


    Harvey grinned. His eyes looked at the invited guests who seemed focused on watching one by one the contestants who began toe out in order. ¡°I¡¯m justzy that this show ising to an end.¡± Then he chose to focus on the decreasing order. Which meant it would soon be his turn.


    ¡°Oh, your manager came?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s for sure.¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°She wanted to see firsthand what I could do to please her.¡±


    ¡°But you won¡¯t.¡± Giselle tapped Harvey lightly on the shoulder. ¡°Whatever the oue of this event, we know who the winner is.¡±


    ¡°Tsk!¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°How arrogant of you to win a bet so soon.¡±


    ¡°Participant number 12, Harvey Princessa is expected to be ready,¡± informed one of the staff.


    Which was greeted with a big grin from Giselle. There was also a small round of apuse to encourage Harvey to stop worrying about his agency. Why should he be sneaky likest year if in reality, he¡¯s still in the same ce.


    It¡¯s useless, right?


    Unless his cheating brings Harvey to the highest point of a model¡¯s career in this country. Getting tons of jobs, a fair contract with the agency, including protection and some other perks, might be something to think about. But what Harvey got was just like any other SEO model who was just starting out and needed a lot of guidance.


    Apart from managing professional models, Justin¡¯s agency also offers sses and talent and interest development for junior models. Most of the time, if they have potential, they will definitely get a decent job and are guaranteed about all kinds of things because SEO does not want to abandon its models after getting a job.


    ¡°Cheer up, Harvey,¡± said Giselle in a cheerful tone. she didn¡¯t care if her voice got snide looks from other contestants including Kristen and Charlotte.


    After Harvey came out of the curtain, greeted by loud apuse from the guest bench and the audience, there was silence among the contestants. Some of them also knew that Giselle had prepared her best for her performance, including for the test. It would be a lie if Giselle wasn¡¯t tense. Moreover, the question was asked and witnessed by many parties, especially Justin and everyone she knew. Also watched by many pairs of eyes out there.


    ¡°Since the broadcasting rights are with me, I make sure this show is really exclusive to airing at the same time. many also hold joint viewing events at certain cafes or at agencies with quiterge supporters,¡± Andrew said as their conversation flowed.


    ¡°I¡¯m a bit worried about the final night actually.¡±


    ¡°What are you worried about?¡± Andrew asked curiously. ¡°Andy said that during the quarantine, you did a lot of things well. In fact, some of the coaches praised how well you were doing there.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes narrowed suspiciously. ¡°You¡¯re really scary, Mr. Stalker.¡±


    That remark was met withughter by Andrew. ¡°I have the right to know what my staff is doing during the contestants¡¯ quarantine period, because the content that we will share must also be mutually agreed upon.¡±


    The conversation was reying in Giselle¡¯s mind now. If Andrew had so much influence over the broadcasting rights, it meant that being a finalist of only ten out of twenty-five contestants could already garner a lot of attention. But she felt discouraged, seeing that many of the other contestants were morepetent than her.


    Although Giselle believes the winner will be Kristen, she admits that Kristen has the potential to win. The girl speaks fivenguages fluently. She had been honored several times in themunity, including establishing a foundation for abandoned children. Well¡­ although Giselle believed that the foundation was one of the streams of wealthy funds belonging to the owner of the organizer; Mr. Woddy.


    ¡°I hope Harvey doesn¡¯t make the finalists this time,¡± Charlotte said, looking at Giselle sarcastically. Deliberately. tantly to provoke Giselle¡¯s emotions. She really didn¡¯t like their closeness, not only because she didn¡¯t like Harvey, but also because she didn¡¯t expect her n to get close to Giselle in order to easily get into the SEO agency to fail miserably.


    ¡°I hope the same thing,¡± Giselle said with a chuckle. ¡°After all, there are many who are morepetent than Harvey.¡±


    ¡°And you thought it was you?¡±


    Giselle giggled. ¡°You¡¯re so funny. When did I say I deserved toe out as one of the finalists? I just don¡¯t know what kind of questions will be asked.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Charlotte folded her arms across her chest. She chose to return to wait for her turn to perform while watching the other contestants strut their stuff on stage. Soon, her name was called. The most annoying thing about all of Giselle¡¯s behavior in her eyes was how casually the girl waved to her in an encouraging manner.


    ¡°You look rxed, Giselle.¡±


    She thought there would be no more disturbances. But Giselle was wrong. Instead, it was Kristen who stepped closer to her. Her eyes had a humorous look in them but Giselle knew there was a strong sense of hostility there. Perhaps it was because she had never heard anyone else¡¯s warnings about Harvey. The friendship between Giselle and Harvey was formed without any coercion. Although she was a little surprised by Harvey¡¯s confession, she believed that her friend would never do anything sneaky again.


    Until tonight¡¯s event, nothing strange happened. Everything went smoothly as it was.


    ¡°Not really.¡± Giselle smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯m pretty tense going into tonight.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re close to me, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll benefit a lot from our closeness.¡±


    Giselle looked at Kristen with a look of disbelief. ¡°You¡­ said that to me?¡±


    ¡°Wrong?¡±


    ¡°Not really but it¡¯s just weird to get in the ear.¡± She let Kristen be near her. She did not even hesitate to return the gaze of the blonde girl who was indeed blessed with this mesmerizing beauty.


    ¡°I¡¯m actually surprised that such an ordinary girl could be recruited by SEO and be on the same level as models who have already traveled the world. I¡¯m even sure that your flying hours are very minimalpared to me.¡± Giselle¡¯s interlocutor smiled faintly this time, whispering softly just to convey a message that she had wanted to say long before this event took ce. ¡°If you were closer to me, you could have ced third or second. At least your name is useful for SEO instead of just qualifying as an ordinary finalist.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, Kristen,¡± Giselle chuckled. ¡°I don¡¯t have high goals for this event. I¡¯ve been very fortunate to be able to take part in all the activities well and make one precious friend, who has nothing to do with our rtionship.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Kristen asked in a dubious tone. ¡°I¡¯m not sure Harvey is that easy to be friend. If you have more time, I¡¯ll tell you how Harvey really is.¡±

 [38]

    ¡°Giselle!¡± Brina squealed happily as soon as the finale was over. The culminating night, which ended half an hour ago, was over. The final photo shoot had also been conducted and ended smoothly. No smiles were missing from any of the contestants.


    Although some of them could not make it to the finalists, or the winner, they also came out as one of the favorite contestants.


    ¡°You missed me, didn¡¯t you?¡± asked Giselle as she spread her arms. She didn¡¯t care if her actions were noticed by many of the invited guests.


    ¡°Not really, but I brought you a present.¡± Brinaughed. In the end, they embraced tightly as a way of relieving their homesickness since they had not seen each other for two weeks. Giselle was not bothered by Brina¡¯s quiet life. And Brina was not bothered by a lot of whining from Giselle which really made her dizzy. Even so, Brina was quite lost.


    She was also a little guilty about confiscating Giselle¡¯s cookie jar. She had been thinking since she left the lobby of the Ford building, in case Giselle was stressed and somewhat depressed by the many activities during quarantine. And the girl couldn¡¯t get a snack to take her mind off the pressure.


    ¡°Um¡­ what¡¯s inside?¡± Giselle was very curious.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Can we talk while sitting?¡± Justin looked at the two girls in front of him in surprise. ¡°You guys are so loud.¡±


    ¡°Justin!¡± Giselle didn¡¯t care if Justin scolded herter. Without hesitation, Giselle threw herself at Justin, and luckily, Justin didn¡¯t resist. Although there were growls of annoyance and a few scoldings from Giselle, but as usual, Giselle cared.


    ¡°You¡¯re really in trouble,¡± Justin said as they broke their hug.


    ¡°What¡¯s my problem?¡± Giselle stared at Justin in disbelief. ¡°You should be congratting me, you know. I won.¡± She pointed to the crown she was still wearing. Even the sash that said Favorite Champion.


    ¡°Yes-yes-yes.¡± Justin shook his head in surprise but then smiled widely. ¡°You¡¯re something I should be proud of.¡±


    Giselle shook her flowing hair. Thest dress she wore, though somewhat inconvenient since the theme for thest show was an elegant evening gown, did not stop her from moving freely. ¡°You should count on me. Who knows, I coulde in second or third ce.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s forehead was flicked just like that, making the girl squeal in disbelief that Justin would do that to her. ¡°It hurts, Justin!¡±


    ¡°Your expectations are too high.¡±


    ¡°Hey, you guys! How long are you going to be there? Just get in the way of other people,¡± Irena said while waving but her voice seemed to be given a loudspeaker that was quite horrendous. Nico, who had been sitting at the table reserved for the SEO team, could only surrender to this horrendous situation. Luckily, in this spacious meeting room, many rtives and some colleagues of the models also came. Adding to the lively atmosphere and the excitement in the SEO team was camouged.


    ¡°It¡¯s better to celebrate while sitting there.¡± Justinughed at that. Before he knew it, Giselle was one of the finalists and had risen all the way to the top five. Don¡¯t ask me how Justin¡¯s heart felt every time the host or the judges asked him questions, including emphasizing the many statements Giselle had made on stage. Especially those rted to social issues and her capacity as a public figure.


    Although some of Giselle¡¯s words were ambiguous and seemingly hesitant, the girl handled it very well.


    ¡°My celebration won¡¯t be as simple as sitting there, Justin.¡± He took his boss¡¯s hand without hesitation. ¡°I want a big celebration. You know, things have been stressful for me during quarantine. I feel like I¡¯m losing weight because of the pressure,¡± sheined.


    All Justin did was nce over and chuckle. ¡°You think I don¡¯t know that you¡¯ve gained a little weight from two weeks ago. When you were in your bikini earlier, I could clearly see.¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding me?¡± asked Giselle with a look of disbelief. How could Justin have noticed even one kilo of weight gain! Had he crossed the line into cheating? Gosh, if that¡¯s the case, it¡¯s going to be quite a day when he returns from Mn. Although it is not yet known what his next schedule will be, there will definitely be a week¡¯s break that he will have to go through ordeally.


    Lose weight to get back to normal. No chocte for some time toe and that¡¯s very scary.


    ¡°My weight is normal, Justin. I think you should check your eyes in case there¡¯s a minus now.¡±


    Justin gave Giselle a stern look. ¡°You think you can escape my observation?¡±


    Giselle spluttered and sat down with an annoyed face. ¡°You¡¯re annoying. It¡¯s a historic day for me, don¡¯t ruin my mood. My weight gain is only one kilo anyway. Why worry about it?¡±


    ¡°You?¡± Brina looked at Giselle with a look of disbelief. ¡°What happened to you?¡±


    Justin let them both argue about what happened during the quarantine. Certainly Giselle didn¡¯t experience it because of pressure alone. Knowing Giselle since she left the club, not letting the girl socialize carelessly, made Justin understand how Giselle behaved even though he didn¡¯t monitor her every day.


    ¡°Your weight gain must be because of chocte. Right?¡±


    ¡°Where did that usatione from? You confiscated my chocte. Don¡¯t just make me look guilty in front of you,¡± Giselle argued.


    When ites to chocte and Giselle¡¯s weight gain, there¡¯s only one person Justin suspects could easily make the delivery without any suspicion; Andrew Kingston.


    And what a coincidence, the man approached her. Smiling while carrying a bouquet of flowers. ¡°Tsk! That guy really doesn¡¯t know his ce.¡±


    ¡°Good evening, Justin and colleagues from SEO,¡± he said kindly. ¡°I¡¯d like to congratte Giselle on her aplishment tonight.¡±


    Giselle immediately stood up, greeting the greeting with a big smile. ¡°Thank you. I really appreciate it.¡±


    Andrew couldn¡¯t hide the happiness on his face. Although when the corner of his eye identally fell on his father, he had to quickly dispel the excitement. ¡°You did your best.¡±


    ¡°Would the CEO of The Coge like to join us in celebrating Giselle¡¯s victory here?¡± asked Justin with a grin. He knew Andrew wouldn¡¯t be here long. The middle-aged man in the other corner didn¡¯t take his eyes off the table. Nor the intimacy between Giselle and her son.


    Justin has no say in other people¡¯s feelings for Giselle. But he does have an obligation to protect Giselle from the potential heartbreak and devastation of their drama-filled rtionshipter on. But it all depends on the feelings Giselle has. Whether to give up on them, or move forward in pursuit of the love thates her way.


    As someone who is close to Giselle, all Justin can do is give her his full support.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. I¡¯ve got a lot of catching up to do, Justin.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°Although I¡¯d love to because there¡¯s bound to be some fun there, right?¡±


    ¡°Depends on your perception of what ¡®fun¡¯ is.¡± Justin chuckled. He picked up the ss of wine on the table. ¡°At the very least, I should thank you for supporting Giselle. Especially during quarantine.¡±


    Andrew was a bit surprised by what Justin had just said, but out of respect for Justin¡¯s offer, he epted. A quick toast before he retreated to shake hands with one guest after another. Just like the organizer, Mr. Woddy, who also greeted all the winners. By his side, the champion was never without praise and congrattions.


    ¡°Justin,¡± Giselle called out as Andrew left them. It didn¡¯t matter to her because she was more focused on what was in her head right now.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Justin turned his head and smiled back at Giselle who looked different wearing a diamond-studded crown on top. ¡°You really make me proud.¡± He gently rubbed the side of Giselle¡¯s slightly damp forehead. ¡°Thank you for fighting and exceeding my expectations about this event.¡±


    The blush on Giselle¡¯s face came unbidden. And that remark also made the girl look down deeply. ¡°You¡¯re embarrassing me.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s something I need to dedicate to you.¡± Justinughed. ¡°You called me earlier, do you have something to say?¡±


    Immediately Giselle raised her gaze. ¡°I won the bet.¡±


    Justin¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°Bet?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± She stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll take Harvey to see you. Hold on, wait for me toe back.¡±


    Justin let Giselle walk away. At a safe distance, he said, ¡°Nico, follow Giselle. I¡¯m sure something bad will happen.¡±

 [39]

    ¡°I¡¯m disappointed in you, Harvey,¡± Maya said with a sour look on her face. She doesn¡¯t care if her face gets a lot of attention from the other guests. Her eyes stared angrily at Harvey. How could Harvey do nothing to pave the way to a ce that the girl could reach.


    ¡°Why be disappointed?¡± Harvey tries to be casual in his response. He also asionally smiles with a small smile as some of the other contestants identally pass by his table. The bouquet of flowers that almost all of the top ten finalists had receivedy on the table, and the sash that Harvey wore, he wanted to take off immediately.


    He won fourth ce with honesty. Although he looked rxed and casual, Harvey was serious about following every session on the schedule. Although he had already had simr training, Ford¡¯s speakers were different fromst year. Hence Harvey¡¯s interest and attention throughout the quarantine.


    In fact, if Harvey is being honest, he often helps Giselle with general knowledge difficulties.


    ¡°Are you contradicting me?¡± snapped Maya with a fierce look. She leaned toward Harvey. Ignoring the fact that they were in a crowd even in an enclosed space. The more arguments there were between them, the greater the chances of their table bing the center of attention.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you just say thank you for what I¡¯ve aplished?¡± asked Harvey casually. He leaned backfortably on the chair he was sitting on. He took off his sash because there was no more photo session.


    There was gold thread engraved writing on the ck fabric, as well as a tassel that was no less crowded but implied elegance for the wearer. She herself did not expect to be able to keep herself in the same spot fromst year. She thought that just making it to the ten finalists would be a great achievement. For her, but embarrassing for Maya.


    Being friends with Giselle for the past few days made him realize one thing; it¡¯s useless to take a lot of risks for others who don¡¯t appreciate the fruits of one¡¯s ownbor. That¡¯s why Harvey decided to do the event the way it was meant to be done. Although he was still suspected by Charlotte, it didn¡¯t matter. Most importantly, Giselle believes in him.


    ¡°Third ce and I have to congratte you?¡± Maya chuckled in annoyance. She folded her arms across her chest even though she was trying to smile but still, the irritation in her heart couldn¡¯t escape. Moreover, the main highlight besides the champion, Giselle Namiozuka, who she wanted to singled out, was getting the stage.


    ¡°You have to extend the contract topensate for what you did tonight,¡± Maya said smugly. She tried to control herself as she saw Andrew and Woddy approaching. She didn¡¯t want to ruin her image in front of the two most important people on the show.


    ¡°Be nice, Harvey. My anger is still not resolved. We¡¯ll talk about it tomorrow¡± Maya stood up to greet the two guests, just as Harvey disyed a look of joy at his aplishment.


    ¡°Congrattions on your achievement, Ms. Harvey.¡± Andrew extended his hand.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Harvey smiled slightly. weing the hand as the usual pleasantries were made.


    ¡°That¡¯s a shame, but your answer impressed the judges.¡± Woddy did the same thing as Andrew. Woddy listened carefully to all the events that took ce, including the participants¡¯ answers to the tests given by the judges.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I did my best, but I¡¯m a bit limited in my knowledge of other countries,¡± Harvey said with a chuckle. ¡°If I could be as smart as Kristen, I¡¯m sure I couldpete with her in the next event.¡± He leaned a little closer and whispered innocently. ¡°But it could just be that her intelligence is due to memorization, what kind of questions and answers satisfy the judges. Isn¡¯t that right, Mr. Woddy?¡±


    Woddy gave Harvey a slightly irritated look. He really didn¡¯t want to wee the three-time champion, not only because of Kristen¡¯s report about hisck of manners, but also because his manner was annoying. As the host, Woddy had to be neutral. He tried to amodate his girlfriend¡¯sints, but unfortunately, his words were proven now. Harvey Princessa is a pain in the ass.


    ¡°You can catch up with him next year, right?¡± said Woddy with a calm look. he also smiled meaningfully at the girl who looked at him guilelessly. He mustn¡¯t fall for what Harvey had just said. It could damage his reputation as the organizer of this prestigious event. And it could make the news of their affair even more public.


    It wasn¡¯t just him who was in trouble, but also Kristen. She couldn¡¯t face Kristen¡¯s tantrum about her winning status. So she tried to be patient with Harvey this time.


    ¡°But unfortunately, for next year, contestants who have participated in the same event twice cannot participate.¡± Woddy felt like he had won above all else. After all, he could have crossed Harvey¡¯s name off the winner¡¯s list, but the jury has the final say when ites to selecting winners other than the overall champion.


    ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood to follow it again either, sir.¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°Well, if this conversation is about contracts and whatnot, I¡¯ll let you talk to my manager.¡± He chose to step away from the table where Harvey was eager to enjoy his meal.


    His stomach was hungry. This culminating night was quite draining and it felt like her whole body was tired too. She wanted to lie down immediately, after making her stomach full. Should she go to the area where the food was served? And then go back to the room?


    It feels better until¡­


    ¡°Where have you been?¡±


    Harvey spluttered. ¡°Can¡¯t you see I¡¯m so tired of everything?¡±


    Giselle burst intoughter. ¡°Congrattions to you, Harvey. You were amazing earlier. I didn¡¯t even realize that your answers were so ssy. I admire you!¡±


    Before it was toote, Harvey quickly made some distance. ¡°Don¡¯t hug me!¡±


    Giselle spluttered in displeasure but then, she removed the frown on her face immediately. Her nimble hands pulled Harvey to follow her.


    ¡°If your goal is a dining table with steak and soda, I¡¯ll follow you. But if not, I¡¯m sorry Giselle. My stomach needs filling.¡±


    Inevitably, this remark was greeted withughter by Giselle. ¡°You¡¯re really too honest about food.¡±


    ¡°You know, thest meal we had was at four in the afternoon. Even that wasn¡¯t filling. How can the body¡¯s metabolism survive after being drained by that event?¡±


    Giselle gave up. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s eat first. I¡¯m hungry too. But eat at my table, okay? The person I want to introduce you to is waiting there. Let¡¯s eat together.¡±


    ¡°Your agency¡¯s people?¡± asked Harvey to confirm.


    ¡°Yaps.¡±


    Their steps continued together until they arrived at the ce where Giselle wanted to be. But before Harvey actually joined the team supporting Gisele, he whispered. ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s okay for me to join here?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡± Giselle blinked in surprise. ¡°Everyone here should wee you.¡± She slightly pushed Harvey¡¯s shoulder to get closer to the table where Justin, Brina, and Irena were talking in a casual tone. They seemed to be waiting for Giselle to return to the table before eating.


    ¡°Hi, everyone,¡± greeted Giselle in a friendly manner. ¡°Let me introduce you. This is my friend during quarantine. You guys must have introduced me too, right?¡±


    Harvey smiled awkwardly. Especially when Brina greeted him cheerfully, congratting him on his achievement as third ce in this prestigious event. Also Irena who immediately invited Harvey to sit down and join them.


    ¡°Thank you for the wee. I didn¡¯t expect to be weed so warmly by you guys,¡± said Harvey, somewhat touched.


    ¡°Giselle¡¯s friends are my friends too,¡± Brina says with augh.


    ¡°And you have a promise to keep, Harvey. You have to meet the person I want.¡±


    Harvey¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Who the hell is he? Andrew? I met him earlier. It¡¯s lucky I didn¡¯t say thank you for your frequent deliveries of chocte and soda.¡±


    ¡°Harvey!!!¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Giselle red fiercely at the girl who was staring at her without any guilt. ¡°You are this! It¡¯s a secret. Don¡¯t let anyone else know.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Harvey grinned. ¡°I think your agency knows that you get frequent deliveries.¡±


    Giselle was furious.


    ¡°So, I guessed right, huh?¡± Justinughed. ¡°Thanks for being honest here, Harvey.¡± He extended his hand. ¡°You¡¯re exactly what I imagined you¡¯d be, straightforward and no-nonsense.¡±


    ¡°At least, I choose to be myself from tonight on.¡± He weed the hand. Harvey knew who he was dealing with this time; the owner of SEO and Giselle¡¯s crush.


    Unfortunately¡­ this guy doesn¡¯t have any feelings for his new friend. How unfortunate.


    ¡°Justin Stockholm and wee to our table.¡±


    ¡°Harvey Princessa.¡± She smiled slightly. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind if I eat together here.¡±


    Justinughed at that remark. ¡°Why not?¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

 [40]

    Andrews was a huge stroke of luck. He never expected the message sentte that night, which he didn¡¯t expect to get a reply because the girl must have rested after a long night. But as it turned out, the message was replied to and almost made him jump out of bed.


    Giselle. N:


    You¡¯ve already congratted me and thanked me for the post. Regarding this post, can we meet?


    The man sat down while feeling his heart. Lest it suddenly stop beating because of this message he read. and rubbed his eyes several times. Afraid if the words that were strung there, were mere pseudo. But no matter how many times he read it, the message was still the same.


    ¡°Giselle asked me to meet?¡± he muttered under his breath. ¡°I¡¯m not dreaming, am I?¡± Andrew tapped his cheek. And it hurt a little, which meant this message wasn¡¯t part of a dream. His hand moved quickly to reply to the message just now, but he couldn¡¯t send it. ¡°Meeting, huh? But how do I meet?¡±


    Even massaging his temples could not make Andrew find a way out. It wasn¡¯t that he hadn¡¯t replied to the message just now, but circumstances forced him to think hard. The next morning, a business breakfast was obviously organized with Woddy and his father. Although his father mostly monitored from home and asionally attended events like this once in a while, his influence on Andrew was considerable. How could he miss an event where his father was present.


    ¡°Tsk! Why did my chancee at such a bad time?¡± Hey down on the bed. His eyes were no longer able to close even though he was tired. Other than staring at the ceiling of the room, what else could he do? While thinking about how he could steal an hour or two just to meet with Giselle.


    ¡°When will I be free?¡± Andrew sighed in frustration. The image of Giselle¡¯s smiling face, filled withughter during the socializing after the finals night, flickered across his eyes. He felt he was sharing in the happiness that was present around Giselle. At least there was something he could do for the girl in his heart.


    He scrolled through the cell phone beside him again. Just in case he suddenly got an idea so he could reply to Giselle¡¯s message immediately. he had to carefully calcte his steps because of his father. He didn¡¯t want to get caught up in the old man¡¯s ridiculous rules and orders. as soon as Fania¡¯s name caught his eye, he grinned slightly.


    He quickly got up and typed in a message for the girl.


    Me:


    Do me a favor. Tell Papa we¡¯ll have breakfast together at 20th Street Road. I have some business before heading back to Centralia.


    It didn¡¯t take long for the message to be replied to.


    Fania. L :


    You really are a bully. But it¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll help you but you have to help meter. Just watch out!


    Andrew¡¯s smile grew wide. At least Fania could work with him and he would remember her kindness. After all, their rtionship was nothing more than friends. It was their parents who pushed too hard, keeping them trapped for who knows how long. But Andrew was determined, ah¡­ Fania was also determined enough, to negate the arranged marriage between them.


    Andrew immediately replied to Giselle¡¯s message with a much calmer heart.


    Me:


    When are you free? Breakfast together? Because I can¡¯t stay in Mn for too long, I have to go back to Centralia soon.


    Whether it was Giselle who was waiting for the message to be replied to, it was clear that the girl¡¯s reply message did not take long to enter Andrew¡¯s cellphone.


    Giselle. N:


    Okay. Seven o¡¯clock at Tommy¡¯s Caffe. I¡¯ll be waiting.


    Andrew was clearly overjoyed. His meeting with Giselle was going to happen and hopefully there would be no obstacles. He could go against his father but Andrew remembers that he still needs Kingston¡¯s support in some parts of his life. He can¡¯t let go of his father¡¯s influence just yet.


    The clock in her room had already struck one in the morning. He should have closed his eyes earlier but now his eyes were no longer filled with sleepiness. Maybe it was because she was excited to wee theing morning, so the sleepiness that hade earlier immediately disappeared. He never expected Giselle to ask him to meet her, even though what she gave him was just a bouquet of flowers, just like the other contestants.


    Ah¡­ no. She must have been surprised that her room was filled with gifts from him. On purpose. Most of them contained choctes and some famous brand items. In appreciation of the hard work Giselle had put in, he had not expected her to be so determined to add value to herself. It was as if what was her life now, was a choice that she really chose. And it also feels like Giselle wants to prove to the world that she is capable of doing things above what many people expect.


    Justin included.


    It didn¡¯t matter, for now what Giselle relied on was that man. Someday, when her business was done with the man who was holding her back, she hoped fervently that Giselle would want to make him a handle and a ce to lean on. It didn¡¯t matter if this was all Andrew could do for her now.


    Andrew is confident that in the future he can do more than he did today.


    While in Giselle¡¯s room, the girl let out a long sigh.


    ¡°How was it?¡± asked Harvey curiously. From the moment they entered the room, apart from being surprised by the contents of the room full of gifts, Harvey himself did not expect that the man had guts too.


    ¡°It¡¯s been replied to,¡± Giselle said in a half-squeal. She flopped down on the sofa and breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°I¡¯m going to go crazy like this.¡±


    Harvey shrugged his shoulders. Looking at Giselle with a pleased look, there was no envy for what his friend was getting. ¡°You¡¯re lucky to have someone looking out for you.¡±


    Giselle straightened her back again. Smirking faintly with eyes that looked nowhere but one after another at the gifts lying on the table. She had checked them all with Harvey and for the most part Giselle knew the brand and price tag of each item. ¡°Crazy man,¡± sheined, patting her forehead.


    ¡°Not just crazy, but he¡¯s crazy about you.¡±


    The girl who had changed her clothes into more casual clothes fell silent. She looked deep into her new friend¡¯s words. ¡°You¡¯re right. But I hope the one who¡¯s crazy about me isn¡¯t her.¡±


    Harvey chuckled at Giselle¡¯s words. ¡°You think you can control other people¡¯s feelings?¡±


    ¡°No, really,¡± Giselle said quietly.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t think that Andrew could do something this crazy. You¡¯re very lucky, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle looked at Harvey for a moment and then smiled slightly. ¡°It¡¯s not really my luck. Besides I can still buy all this myself, you know, my royalties in SEO are great.¡±


    ¡°Show-off!¡±


    Giselleughed but then continued her paused speech. ¡°I don¡¯t want to get this kind of crazy attention. it¡¯s just enough if he really likes me. Unfortunately, I can¡¯t reciprocate that feeling.¡±


    ¡°Because of someone else?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s smile although created slightly but there was a sadness there. ¡°That¡¯s how it is.¡±


    ¡°May I guess?¡±


    Giselle shook her head. ¡°I think you know what the end of my feelings are.¡±


    ¡°The most vain thinges in that woman¡¯s heart¡­ having deep but unrequited feelings.¡±


    Giselle sniggered in displeasure. ¡°So poetic.¡±


    ¡°But my words have some truth to them, don¡¯t they?¡± Harvey giggled with amusement. Unfortunately, Giselle did not respond with the sameughter. Instead, she looked at Harvey with an increasingly somber look.


    ¡°I¡¯m trying to get him to look at me. I¡¯ll keep trying until I reach the point where I should give up. Don¡¯t you think that I¡¯m doing a useless job. In my life that has lived through the darkness of hell, I can¡¯t trust any man out there except one. And he¡¯s the only one I¡¯ve given my life to carry. Anywhere. I¡¯m willing.¡±

 [41]

    ¡°How do I look?¡± asked Giselle as she made sure nothing was left in her shoulder bag.


    ¡°What do you want me to praise you for?¡± asked Harvey as he ruffled her hair. He didn¡¯t want to get out of bed yet but remembered that at eight o¡¯clock there was a breakfast event. Although it wasn¡¯t the main event because the closing ceremony would be at lunchtime, he still had to attend. Especially since Giselle couldn¡¯t make it.


    There was no way their meeting could have been quick.


    ¡°Your words hurt me, Harvey.¡± Giselle quickly puts on her sneakers. A dark brown hat and sunssesplemented her look.


    ¡°I just found out that Giselle can make phrases at the level of high drama.¡±


    ¡°Never mind. Talking to you is a waste of time.¡± She quickly left the room but before she could move away, the message she had spoken so many times echoed through the room. ¡°Tell Brina I ha-¡±


    ¡°Just need to sleep, after having breakfast delivered to the room. As for the closing ceremony, you¡¯ll definitely be attending.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. Harvey repeated the message perfectly. ¡°I¡¯m counting on you.¡±


    ¡°Nothing is free in this world, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Take it easy.¡± Giselle held up both thumbs. ¡°I¡¯ll get you a soda for sure.¡±


    ¡°For some reason, I cringe at the sight of Brina¡¯s face.¡±


    ¡°Never mind, I have to go now. talking to you is endless.¡±


    Harvey just waved softly and let Giselle close the door. It would be better if he got ready for the small talk in the dining room. He wasn¡¯t sure Maya was still in the hotel. Even if she was, he didn¡¯t care.


    Her mind was made up. Once again, he checked his savings ount, the result of collecting money from his modeling job. The amount listed there was enough to pay the penalty ording to the contract period with Maya. But given that Maya was a cunning woman, Harvey had prepared some spare cash.


    But¡­ she quickly switched her cell phone to call someone. Once connected, she spoke in a tone that sounded seductive.


    ¡°I¡¯ve finished attending the event. Sorry to call you.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Fine if that¡¯s what you want but I need arge sum of money.¡± She sat down while twisting the ends of her hair. He closed his eyes quietly, trying to get rid of the thoughts that were beginning to consume his mind. ¡°I no longer want to work under your wife¡¯s influence. Can you make her let me go? I won¡¯t run away from you, darling.¡±


    ***


    ¡°You look different this morning, Giselle,¡± Andrew greeted as he found the girl he¡¯d been dying to meet already at the caf¨¦. Sitting down, she gently shook her head. A white head set in the shape of a rabbit was attached to the girl¡¯s head. It looked adorable.


    ¡°You¡¯re here.¡± Giselle took off her headset immediately. Improving her mood while listening to music was one of the many ways Giselle could do it. A slice of red velvet with iced chocte was served in front of her. ¡°I think I should have waited longer.¡±


    Andrewughed but not for long, sitting up and looking at her guiltily. ¡°I apologize for making you wait so long. I didn¡¯t realize that bi-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve only been waiting five minutes, Andrew,¡± Giselle chuckled excitedly. ¡°You¡¯re freaking out. I¡¯m just kidding.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Andrew didn¡¯t matter. ¡°I still feel bad for making you wait. I¡¯m sorry again, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Alright alright.¡± Giselle wagged her finger lightly as she took a sip of her iced chocte. ¡°Since I don¡¯t know what your coffee preferences are, I haven¡¯t ordered for you yet.¡±


    ¡°I like the Americano type of coffee. If it¡¯s atte, it¡¯s a fairly low sugar or less sugar option. If you don¡¯t mind remembering what my favorite coffee is.¡±


    Giselle nodded immediately. ¡°I remember. My memory is quite high. Next time we meet, I¡¯ll order coffee that suits your taste.¡±


    ¡°I hope that meeting can happen in the near future.¡± Andrew couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the beautiful and adorable girl. Wearing a white T-shirt with navy colored sweatpants, the hat that was still worn seemed to disguise how Giselle¡¯s face was from the public, not to mention the makeup that Giselle wore waspletely different fromst night¡¯s event.


    It really made Andrew¡¯s faith weak.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Giselle shrugged. ¡°I¡¯ve got too much on my agenda to deal with it all on my own.¡± Giselle¡¯s shoulders seemed to droop weakly. ¡°Especially in the next week, I¡¯ll be punished quite severely.¡±


    ¡°Punishment?¡± asked Andrew with an unexpected look. ¡°Did you do something wrong? What happened? You can tell me, Giselle. I might be able to help you. But it¡¯s a bit too much ji-¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re chatty too, huh, being a man?¡± Giselle gave Andrew a humorous look. ¡°Besides being a stalker, a pain in the ass, it turns out Andrew Kingston has a lot to say too.¡±


    Andrew blinked in disbelief. He didn¡¯t expect to be able to say that much himself, plus, in front of Giselle! God, why was he such a shameless guy in front of the girl he liked. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said with a chuckle. ¡°I said a lot of unnecessary things.¡±


    Giselle shook her head again. ¡°You apologize too much too. Just be yourself wherever you are, Andrew. It¡¯ll be more fun.¡±


    He had not misced his heart for the girl who smiled broadly at him. The rising sun warmed the surroundings, outshone by the smile Giselle had given him this morning. Even to get out of the Ford building, he needed extra energy. This included waiting for Fania¡¯s arrival at the first meeting ce. Don¡¯t let his n to disappear for a moment be discovered by his father. If he was with Fania, it certainly wouldn¡¯t raise any suspicions.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Giselle.¡± Andrew sighed softly. His cup of coffee had just been delivered by the waiter. He was now beginning to savor the aroma and vor. It was a bit different from the previous cafe, but Andrew was confident that the taste was quite eptable and enjoyable.


    ¡°I asked you to meet for no reason, I¡¯m sorry to disturb your busy schedule.¡± Giselle began to straighten her back, adjusting her seat as a sign that there was no longer any cordiality in their meeting. She wanted to speak quite firmly about what Andrew had done for her.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t bother me at all. You shouldn¡¯t feel guilty,¡± Andrew said immediately.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Giselle smiled slightly. ¡°I just want to know what all the presents in my room are for?¡±


    ¡°Congrattions to you of course. What else?¡± replied Andrew with a chuckle. ¡°Is there anything that doesn¡¯t fit? If so, tell me which part? I¡¯ll rece it with se-¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re overreacting, Andrew,¡± Giselle said with a sharp look. ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m ungrateful, but a gift from a man whose mere introduction makes me ufortable,¡±


    ¡°I told you the real reason, didn¡¯t I? I have nothing more to cover up.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Giselle said immediately. ¡°But it¡¯s all too much for me, Andrew. I can¡¯t take it.¡±


    ¡°Even if you consider it a friend¡¯s gift for your aplishments?¡±


    Giselleughed. ¡°Friends?¡±


    Andrew blinked in surprise. ¡°You¡­ can¡¯t consider me a friend?¡±


    ¡°A friend has his own limits when ites to giving, Andrew. Although you say it¡¯s only a small part of what you can do for me, it¡¯s too much for my eyesight.¡± Giselle yed with the tip of her straw on the ss of iced chocte she had just savored a little. ¡°For all I know, you alone understand what kind of world Ie from.¡±


    Andrew wanted to break all of Giselle¡¯s words that sounded rambling but somehow, the look in the girl¡¯s eyes undid all the intentions that were already on the tip of the tongue. Which made Andrew again silence his voice in order to hear what Giselle wanted to say.


    ¡°A man¡¯s gift is not something free. There is a purpose and a goal. Especially when it¡¯s not cheap stuff.¡± Giselle took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. ¡°So¡­ tell me what is the purpose of you giving me so many gifts?¡±

 [42]

    ¡°You didn¡¯t get poisoned from breakfast, did you?¡± she asked casually. Her hands were busy cutting the steak that was the meal of the day. She had to spend the morning outside the hotel, fortunately this was Mn where there were many shops she could visit in the morning. Even so, Fania was a bit surprised after meeting Andrew this time. Aside from Andrew¡¯s overly cheerful look, the man kept looking at his cell phone as if there was a treasure there.


    ¡°Can you say something nice for me to hear?¡± Andrew chuckled in annoyance. He put his phone away and went back to enjoying the meal in front of him. ¡°Don¡¯t we have a banquet this afternoon? Why did you choose a heavy menu to fill your stomach.¡±


    Fania sneered. ¡°Whose fault do you think it is that I chose this dish? I should have eaten the spicy chicken sandwich prepared by the chef at the Ford Building restaurant this morning. But since you asked me to lie, there was no way I was going to show up in front of your father alone.¡±


    Andrew grinned. ¡°Thanks for the favor. I won¡¯t forget it and the next time you need the same favor, I¡¯ll repay you right away.¡±


    Fania shook her head lightly. Her shoulder-length hair swayed with her body. Her eyes gazed humorously at the man she was speaking to. ¡°The fee for this morning was expensive, Mr. Kaku. But no matter, I¡¯m quite happy to see you¡¯re much more human than before.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°You think I¡¯m a robot?¡±


    The girl burst intoughter. She covered her mouth for fear that herughter would be too loud. Although there weren¡¯t many customers in this restaurant, she still had to maintain her manners. Fania cleared her throat briefly as she tried topose herself. She had never expected to be able to talk casually with a man who had previously been stiff and cold. Even just speaking seemed to count the number of words so as not to waste them.


    Not to mention his annoying attitude, often at his own pace. fortunately, the three-year engagement only brought them together asionally. he said it was to familiarize themselves with each other. but who can be forced about matters of the heart and feelings? No one can. Just like Fania who fell in love with Sean¡¯s simplicity. Ah¡­ remembering her boyfriend made her want to return to Manchester immediately.


    ¡°Who¡¯s the lucky girl who got your attention?¡± asked Fania after wetting her throat with the water provided. She chose to drink a lot of water not only to keep herself in shape, but also to realize its importance to her health.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to know,¡± said Andrew who put another piece of steak into his mouth. He chewed it like he was enjoying himself but he wasn¡¯t, he was just obliged to fill his stomach so as not to cause problemster on. His brain was already drifting thinking of the many pending tasks including how to cancel their wedding.


    ¡°So stingy,¡± Fania said, spluttering in displeasure. ¡°You¡¯re cheating, Mr. Kaku. You know who my lover is but why am I not allowed to know who yours is.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s eating slowed down a little. He put down his spoon slowly, not because he lost his appetite but because the question just now tickled him. Andrew only grimaced slightly in response to Fania¡¯s question. ¡°If I could think of myself as a lover, my heart would be at ease.¡±


    ¡°You were rejected?¡± asked Fania with a look of disbelief. ¡°Wow¡­ doesn¡¯t she know who rejected her?¡±


    ¡°Noisy!¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Fania scowled but that did not stop the girl from continuing to pry for information. She patted her chest lightly. ¡°If you need a love consultant, you can call me anytime, but we¡¯re still on the same page; undoing our parents¡¯ crazy idea.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a must,¡± Andrew replied matter-of-factly. Thest piece of steak went into his mouth and he chewed it quickly. He admitted that most restaurants in Mn offered such rich vors. Almost all steakhouses, sidewalk cafes, or several food streets scattered at several points, there is nothing that is not appetizing. No wonder many have made Mn the number one tourist destination besides LongInd, Yazeran, or Manhattan.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t need your free service.¡± Andrew wiped the corner of his lips in case there were any leftovers.


    ¡°You¡¯re too much.¡± Faniaughed without feeling hurt. ¡°I forgot that you¡¯re one of those guys who breaks the hearts of so many girls out there. Handsome but can¡¯t be had, just wants to have fun without any serious intentions. That¡¯s¡­ you, right?¡±


    Andrew¡¯s eyes stared intently at Fania¡¯s figure, who spoke very straightforwardly about herself. Maybe some of what she said was true, but a heartbreaker for girls? Good grief. Andrew rarely had a close enough rtionship to be considered a date with some of the girls out there. Maybe if it¡¯s a bedmate just for fun, Andrew doesn¡¯t deny it. He¡¯s a grown man, there are some fun things to do in bed to relieve stress. Without the need for a special bond and seeing the same woman often.


    Not like that.


    He recalled a conversation with Giselle that might not be easy to get rid of in his mind.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any intention with the gift I gave you. It¡¯s purely as an appreciation because you really worked hard during the quarantine.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s too much.¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s too much, you can say so without using me of being mean.¡±


    ¡°Nothing is free in this world, Mr. Stalker,¡± Giselle cut in quickly. The originally adorable look on her face turned cynical and stern. ¡°I¡¯ll return it to your office when we get back.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± prevented Andrew immediately. ¡°I would be very disappointed if you did that, Giselle. I want you to ept everything sincerely.¡±


    Giselle looked away.


    ¡°Next time I¡¯ll let you know if you want to send a gift, but with conditions.¡±


    ¡°Not too much,¡± Giselle quickly interrupted.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°Not much, just one gift that wille when something speciales into your life. As a show of support because I really want you to shine in the ce you¡¯re in now.¡±


    Giselle looked closely at the man in front of her. ¡°Whereas before, you wanted to reveal the thing that I was most afraid of in this world. I know that the past cannot be erased in one¡¯s life. He is attached like a scab that doesn¡¯t disappear easily. Even fading cannot be one hundred percent. especially if the person¡¯s past is very bad. And you know where Ie from.¡±


    ¡°I told you, I did that to get close to you. I know I was wrong. That¡¯s why I won¡¯t do that to you again. I promise. Everything about your past that I know, I will keep neatly. You can rest easy, trust me.¡±


    Giselle only pulled the corners of her lips slightly. It was not easy for her to say that she trusted this man.


    ¡°You have nothing to fear about your past that I know of, Giselle. I mean it. And I¡¯ll always remember, too, if you don¡¯t like too many gifts.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just like a winner,¡± Giselle said quietly.


    ¡°The winner in my heart.¡±


    Giselle gave Andrew a sardonic look. ¡°Cut down on your sweet mouth. Me wanting to meet you doesn¡¯t mean agreeing to be approached by you.¡±


    ¡°If I may be told, why am I forbidden from approaching? We¡¯re both adults and I¡¯m sure you know what I mean by approaching.¡±


    Giselle nodded without hesitation. ¡°I know. that¡¯s why I wanted to emphasize something here, besides the gifts of course. I¡¯m thankful for all your deliveries during quarantine. At the very least, those snacks and flowers kept me going through the hard days. As for the gift, I¡¯m trying to understand and ept it because you forced it. But for next time, please¡­ not that much. You and I are just acquaintances, not close friends.¡±


    Andrew nodded in agreement. Whether there were many gifts or not, he could still manage. One gift that represented many gifts could still be arranged. Take it easy, as long as Giselle didn¡¯t forbid it, he could still be as free as possible.


    ¡°Most men who approach me just want what I have, Andrew. What I have and what I can do to satisfy their desires. And you¡­ the one who knows and has enjoyed what I can do even from a distance, think¡­ are you just curious or is it sincerity from your heart?¡±

 [43]

    Giselle¡¯s words just now made Andrew smile. Taking a small sip of his coffee. And let the girl in front of him go back to chewing her cake slice with gusto. Judging by the way she was using the cutlery, it looked like she had just let out some of her frustration through that remark.


    Andrew understood why Giselle seemed emotional. For as long as he¡¯d known Nami in the club from the moment she appeared until the end of the show, the twinkle in the girl¡¯s eyes had been non-existent. At all. Empty and full ofpulsion. What burned in those beautiful eyes was only an obligation. Not from the bottom of her heart. Although many were tempted, they could only touch her body, not her heart.


    And Andrew didn¡¯t want that to be presented to him. He wants what¡¯s inside Nami-or as he now calls her, Giselle, as she would like to be-fully. Especially her fragile heart wrapped in a very hard shell.


    ¡°You say that like I¡¯m going to drag you to bed.¡± Andrew put down his cup slowly. This time, his eyes were fixed on the other person. And as he had guessed, Giselle always managed to keep up with her interlocutor no matter how much pressure was put on her. Which made Andrew realize that Giselle was made of steel.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t approach you for those petty things. No matter what you have, everything you say, I ignore it all.¡±


    Giselle was still faithfully looking at Andrew without pause.


    ¡°I want your heart, Giselle.¡±


    That remark received a chuckle in response from the other person. The eyes that originally gave a calcting and cynical look, began to disappear. Reced with the look they had when they first met at this cafe. Warm and friendly.


    ¡°You¡¯re so good at using your mouth to brag,¡± Giselle said, holding back herughter. ¡°Really, it would have been better if I¡¯d heard you wanted that-¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want that, Giselle. To me, your heart is far more important. Having you with my heart is what I want more than anything in this world.¡±


    ¡°Even your current position?¡±


    Andrew was silent but then he chuckled. ¡°My position? What¡¯s wrong with the position I have now? Is there a problem?¡±


    ¡°That should be a question for me to ask you.¡± Giselle clucked in annoyance. Since she had run out of cakes, she was at a loss as to what to munch on. She still needed some sweets before the torture came to her. She frowned a little but it seemed that the other person knew what was in Giselle¡¯s heart.


    ¡°You want to order more? Don¡¯t hesitate. I can even buy this entire shop for you.¡±


    Instead, Giselle wore a face full of sadness. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine what kind of training and dieting Brina would give me if that were to happen.¡± She rested her head on the table. ¡°I got caught cheating a lot during quarantine, and it was because of you.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Andrew blinked in confusion. Wasn¡¯t the conversation serious enough to discuss? It had to do with a lot of feelings and phrases that Andrew wanted to say. But why was Giselle so quick to deflect? On a whim?


    But Andrew should have been able to anticipate how Giselle would build an exciting and unforgettable conversation. Ah¡­ damn. Andrew should be more sensitive and be able to keep up with Giselle¡¯s wishes. You could say he¡¯s lucky enough to see another side of Giselle here, right?


    ¡°Yes, because you give me chocte treats almost every day. I gained weight and Justin realized it. I couldn¡¯t make an excuse because I found out who sent the choctes during quarantine.¡±


    Andrew was stunned. He couldn¡¯t believe what he was hearing but this was Justin. The man who was Giselle¡¯s boss and the one who was so protective of her. But his knowledge of Giselle is quite horrifying. Is he the man Andrew should bepeting with?


    If so¡­ how many steps has he lost?


    No, no, no. Andrew, this was no time to give up. Not only had he been given six months to get close to Giselle, but also to prove his seriousness, and he didn¡¯t seem to have any excess romance for Giselle. That¡¯s right. He had to make up his mind that Justin wasn¡¯t his rival.


    ¡°He even knows how much weight I¡¯ve gained from chocte,¡± Giselle said, covering her face. ¡°It¡¯s embarrassing.¡±


    ¡°I feel bad for what happened to you.¡± Andrew didn¡¯t know what to say, nor did he expect this remark to trigger Giselle¡¯s irritation. The girl immediately lifted her face, giving him a scathing look and ready to start a fight.


    ¡°Right.¡± Giselle pounded the table a little. ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s wrong. If you hadn¡¯t tempted me with so much chocte, I wouldn¡¯t have been tempted.¡±


    Andrew blinked in disbelief.


    ¡°You must take responsibility.¡±


    ¡°What¡­ what can I do for you?¡± asked Andrew as he looked around. Don¡¯t let Giselle¡¯s actions attract the attention of other visitors. But it didn¡¯t seem like something Andrew needed to worry about. There weren¡¯t many visitors this morning, maybe because it was still early? I don¡¯t know. But it was definitely an advantage for Andrew.


    ¡°Don¡¯t send me chocte again.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°I won¡¯t ept.¡±


    That said, if Andrew could haveughed at Giselle¡¯s miserable face, he would have done so earlier. But since this was a Giselle he didn¡¯t want to hurt his heart and spirit, Andrew chose to nod in agreement. Even though he knew that Giselle and chocte were inseparable. Stopping the chocte shipment and Giselle not being able to eat it, Andrew was sure it felt like something was missing from his life.


    ¡°What if I make you a special order? Low-sugar cookies withoutpromising the chocte vor?¡±


    Giselle slightly rubbed the corners of her eyes. Imagining the jar of cookies that would be less of a part of her daily life was unbearable. After two weeks together and suddenly having to cut back, it wasn¡¯t easy for Giselle.


    ¡°Indeed¡­ it can be done?¡±


    ¡°I think so,¡± Andrew said with a calm look. His hand unconsciously reached out and rubbed Giselle¡¯s head lightly. ¡°I¡¯ll try for you. But don¡¯t lose your smile and spirit.¡±


    Giselle blinked twice. Digesting.


    ¡°Just tell me your schedule, I¡¯ll adjust it. For you, I can try my best.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Andrew smiled widely.


    ¡°Okay. But don¡¯t make me gain weight.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to an experienced chef, especially for you.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Giselle perked up again. ¡°I can¡¯t wait for that special delivery.¡±


    ¡°You really like chocte, huh?¡±


    Giselle nodded without hesitation. But then, the girl¡¯s caution returned. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean I agree to you approaching using your heart. I won¡¯t. I still want to achieve what I can achieve now.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Andrew said immediately. ¡°I¡¯ll wait until you know that I¡¯m here to sincerely want your heart and prove that I¡¯m not the man out there that you think I am.¡± The hand that had been rubbing the top of Giselle¡¯s head earlier, lightly touched the girl¡¯s hand. It was gentle, sping it tightly as if all the feelings Andrew had were there. ¡°Watch and feel how I want you with my heart. If one day your heart already has an opening for me to enter, you can judge for yourself how sincere it is.¡±

 [44]

    ¡°Anything else to bring?¡± asked Victor, the SEO driver who had been asked to pick them up at the Ford building. Not everything in Giselle¡¯s room could be transported by suitcase or delivery service. The girl was very fussy about the gifts she received.


    He said, ¡°We must cherish the gift that I worked so hard to give. Don¡¯t treat it carelessly. I don¡¯t want to.¡±


    Therefore, Justin asked for a driver and a slightlyrger car so that all of Giselle¡¯s belongings could be loaded properly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think there are any more,¡± Brina confirmed. She counted the number of boxes she had put in the trunk of the car, afraid she might have missed something. ¡°Did you check the room? Nothing left behind?¡± she asked Giselle who was still engrossed in her cell phone. There seemed to be an exciting conversation going on there.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± the model replied lightly. She adjusted the sunsses that adorned her face. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Brina sighed softly. ncing at Nico to check in case any of the girl¡¯s belongings were left behind. It was usually always in the toilet whether it was a set of makeup tools, a hair dryer, or a bathrobe. Giselle was one of those girls who rarely used the facilities the hotel provided during her temporary stay for work. She prefers to use her own.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Nico chuckled but seeing Giselle looking cheerful, he finally relented. Being acquainted and familiar with the girl made him realize, he had to expand his patience so much. Giselle only looked fierce and stern on her face, but in reality, she was¡­ spoiled and troublesome.


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait for Nico to return.¡± Brina quickly entered the car cabin where she took a seat next to Giselle.


    ¡°Are there any of his things left behind?¡±


    Brina shook her head. leaving Giselle to her assumptions. ¡°You better organize your seat. We¡¯re going on a long journey. Traveling ovend from Mn to Centralia is quite time-consuming. If you don¡¯t mind having all your things shipped, we should be able to arrive by evening and rest in peace.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do to appreciate her gift.¡±


    ¡°Have you found out who the sender is?¡±


    Giselle nodded immediately.


    ¡°Justin justughed at everything in your room. I wonder who the person was who wasted time and money on this stuff.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re annoying.¡± Giselle folded her arms across her chest. ¡°Why do I have to see you again?¡±


    Brinaughed. ¡°I¡¯ve made a diet program and work out schedule for you. Don¡¯t ever ignore it or I¡¯ll drag you in by force. I¡¯ve gotten permission from Justin to get you back to normal. I¡¯d like to hit Andrew with this bag if I knew he was the one who seduced you with chocte.¡±


    ¡°The chocte is so tempting. I couldn¡¯t bear to ignore it either. It was as if the jar was waving at me. Hi, Giselle. Come eat us. We¡¯re delicious, you know.¡±


    ¡°Recklessly!¡± Brina intensified herughter. ¡°There is no such simile, Giselle. You¡¯re too incoherent. Or is it too much chocte that gives you hallucinations?¡±


    The remark was greeted with an annoyed chuckle from Giselle.


    ¡°And this morning, what was your excuse for not having breakfast together? Justin was really worried about you.¡±


    ¡°I sent her a message, anyway. She replied back immediately and gave me permission anyway.¡±


    Brina squinted suspiciously. ¡°Who did you meet? The delivery boy?¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°Giving too much usually has a specific purpose. You must be careful, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°I know. I asked her that too. And he said he didn¡¯t have any motive.¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Brina patted her forehead lightly. Let out a long sigh and looked at Giselle with a look of disbelief. ¡°It¡¯s true what Justin said, you only look mature. You¡¯re still innocent and can be tricked.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Giselle defended herself. ¡°I know what is sincere and purposeful in a man.¡± She began to adjust the seat to make it morefortable. The ride home this time was definitely much longer than if she had taken the ne. But no matter, the car was designed to allow her to rx and rest in it until she reached her destination; her apartment.


    For one thing, she refused to buy Justin a ne ticket; he had gone to the trouble of sending a car and carrying all this stuff. She didn¡¯t want to make Justin spend too much money even though Giselle¡¯s amodation was in the SEO budget.


    There was also one thing she wanted to do; enjoy the ride while talking to Brina. Especially about Harvey and the man who suddenly caught her attention.


    ¡°I¡¯m in a world where there are a lot of men with fake faces. There I met many sweet-mouthed men with lots of money. All I had to do was do whatever he wanted, and the money would fall into myp. Not to mention all the ways they used to get me to apany them, including lying to their partners. I know their behavior and even their conversations when they¡¯re with me by heart.¡± Giselle chuckled remembering the past.


    ¡°And you feel that man is sincere?¡±


    ¡°I guess,¡± Giselle said softly. ¡°But even if I¡¯m sincere, I can¡¯t turn away that easily. The back I want to enjoy is not hers.¡±


    Brina sighed softly. She knew where Giselle was going with this. ¡°It¡¯s better to focus your energy on things that can be achieved. What you¡¯re going through has a long end. Justin is counting on you to continue supporting SEO.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± said Giselle. ¡°I¡¯ve also rejected his sincerity. So you can rest assured that I have my full concentration at Justin¡¯s disposal.¡±


    ¡°What about your own heart? Can you really reject it?¡±


    Giselle looked at Brina with a puzzled look. ¡°Why can¡¯t I? I really don¡¯t have any feelings for that guy at all. Although I admit he¡¯s nice and yes¡­ I admit he¡¯s quite handsome. But all of that is not enough to make him in my heart. He¡¯s just like an outsider I know. That¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Just so long as it doesn¡¯t be a problem in the future.¡±


    ¡°I know who to ask for help, right?¡± Giselle chuckled. She asked Victor to leave the hotel immediately. ¡°What are we waiting for?¡±


    ¡°Nico,¡± Brina replied with a surprised shake of her head. ¡°You forgot your own partner?¡±


    As soon as she remembered the man who was present atst night¡¯s event, she grinned. ¡°I thought Nico was on the same flight as Justin.¡±


    ¡°There she is.¡± Brina quickly opened the car window, waving softly at the half-running Nico. In her hand was a small bag that Brina knew who it belonged to.


    ¡°It¡¯s a good thing I came back,¡± Nico said with a chuckle and gave Giselle an exasperated look. ¡°You¡¯re too much. You can leave your make-up bag behind!¡±


    Giselle gaped but then burst outughing. ¡°I forgot. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m used to it!¡± said Brina and Nico simultaneously.


    Soon, the car began to leave the lobby area of the Ford building. Giselle had met the other contestants at lunchtime. She also took the time to talk to Woddy, the organizer, as well as the other champions who were already preparing to go home and do their respective activities.


    ¡°I hope Justin can take care of Harvey soon.¡± Giselle muttered under her breath remembering her breakup with Harvey this afternoon. Honestly, she was a bit lost even though themunication had not been cut off since then. There was just something to talk about in the chat.


    ¡°I¡¯m a little worried, Harvey and you are both troublesome.¡± Brina said in a lethargic tone while providing a nket for Giselle. She also made sure that snacks and food were avable in the storage box. She did not want Giselle to suddenly starve in the car.


    ¡°Let it be. You¡¯ll be the one with the hassle. Justin and I won¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Giselle is indeed a sly girl,¡± Brina said with an exasperated chuckle. But for whatever reason, Brina was grateful that Giselle could have a friend who could keep up and be trusted. it wasn¡¯t easy to get close to the girl who was nowughing because of what Brina had just said. at least, Giselle wasn¡¯t alone in SEO.


    As the owner wishes, SEO must have four main pirs. There are still two more to find, when and where to find them. Also most importantly¡­ willing to join.

 [45]

    ¡°You need to stay in shape, Giselle,¡± Brina said as she shaded the model who was still glued to the shoot this afternoon. The heat that greeted the location this time did not dampen Giselle¡¯s spirits. It¡¯s been a week since the announcement of the final night results, and it¡¯s also been a tough few days as Brina hasn¡¯t let Giselle breathe free.


    Even so, Giselle continues to live it wholeheartedly. although sometimes she has to be extra patient in dealing with the crowds of fans who are increasingly often encountered identally. Like when she was at the airport two days ago, before arriving at her destination. Even the SEO staff was a bit troubled by the crowd because everyone wanted to shake hands and ask for photos with Giselle.


    ¡°I know,¡± Giselle smiled slightly. ¡°What do you think?¡± She showed one of the results. ¡°I don¡¯t know why I feel like I¡¯m missing something here.¡±


    The photographer, David, just smiled a little. ¡°But I think this is the best pose you can do. It fits the theme of this magazine.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m not satisfied. Can you do it one more time?¡±


    ¡°No problem.¡± Davidughed. ¡°You really want the best, huh.¡±


    ¡°Even though I¡¯m being paid to be on the cover of this magazine, it¡¯s my face that¡¯s stered there. It¡¯s widely spread and many people will see. If I don¡¯t look my best, no matter how good the clothes are that are attached here,¡± She pointed at herself. ¡°It won¡¯te across well if I¡¯m half-hearted.¡±


    Sometimes the stubbornness of the girl who started rearranging her order and getting ready, really made Brina lose her patience. But her determination and enthusiasm could not be ignored.


    ¡°How do I look?¡± asked Giselle after feeling confident enough to pose for the camera again.


    ¡°Good,¡± Brina gave two thumbs up. ¡°After this, we¡¯ll have lunch where you want.¡±


    ¡°An iced chcoctte? The right air to enjoy it, right?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Brina gave Giselle a fierce look. ¡°You never learn from your mistakes?¡±


    Giselle grinned widely and quickly left Brina for the shoot. Asking David for separate directions so that their work this afternoon could bepleted soon. Besides epting a job as a photomodel on the cover of Heavenly magazine, there were several invitations that she was supposed toplete while in quarantine. Including being a catalog model for one of the famous boutiques in NewCaslte.


    Brina, who knew Giselle¡¯s behavior, could only shake her head in wonder. She chose to sit on a waiting chair and talk to the other models invited by the magazine, which was mostly about women and careers. Giselle also epted the offer to be one of the models to guest star and undergo an interview session.


    The interview is likely to be conducted tomorrow. And Gisell has also gotten any material that can be learned before the interview process takes ce. If Brina didn¡¯t miscount, there were at least ten activities that Giselle did while in NewCastle. And all of them had to bepleted within two weeks. Afterward, they flew to Yazeran to attend a lunch with the Miss World finalists. The agenda was not far from guest starring in a magazine run by Ford¡¯s management.


    Andrew. K :


    I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve already started to get back to work. I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t had a chance to send you what I promised. The news about corrupt officials is really taking up my time. You know the news, right?


    Brina, who was holding Giselle¡¯s cell phone, was a little bbergasted by this message that had juste in. ¡°How close are they?¡± she asked curiously. ¡°Gielle never seems to be busy with new people let alone discussing this guy.¡± He stared at Giselle¡¯s cell phone with an amazed look until it returned to the dark screen. Although she knew Giselle¡¯s cell phone code, it was not eptable for Brina to unlock it just to read a message from Andrew.


    ¡°I¡¯d better focus on Giselle¡¯s other schedule.¡± She took out her work tablet. Organizing some agendas that Giselle might have missed including the shopping schedule. There were a few things they had to give and prepare for especially a dinner invitation from the owner of one of NewCastle¡¯s most popr radio stations.


    She simply ced Giselle¡¯s phone next to her work tablet. As long as it was under surveince, Brina was never afraid of leaving valuables behind. After all, this was an environment where many people were milling around and most of them were staff working under the direction of Heavenly magazine. In the event of theft, Brina would not hesitate to hold them ountable as the organizers.


    Just about to report some things to Justin, Giselle¡¯s cell phone was already calling for attention. nced at, still with the same sender.


    Andrew. K:


    Tell me the address of the hotel you¡¯re staying at. I¡¯ll send you an express package. I hope you like it and it fits. I included the ingredients in the cookies. I hope your nutritionist will ept it and stop forbidding you.


    ¡°Gosh, this guy doesn¡¯t give up easily, does he?¡± Brinaughed at that. Not long after, Giselle returned with a much happier stride and smile. ¡°Are we done yet?¡±


    ¡°Yaps.¡± Giselle sat beside Brina carefree. The satisfaction in her heart was evident in her smiling face. Although she was a little red from the heat and there were a few wrong poses, but Giselle felt that for thest time the shooting ended sessfully. The result also made David feel much better after the repetition than before.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    ¡°Drink first,¡± Brina offered the bottle of mineral water on the table. Her eyes only nced briefly at Giselle who was leaning backfortably in her chair. ¡°Someone sent you a message.¡±


    ¡°Harvey?¡± asked Giselle as she uncorked the bottle. She gulped down the contents of the bottle several times until almost half of it was left. It felt refreshing as the water passed down her throat. ¡°I¡¯m hungry. I don¡¯t have anything else scheduled after this, do I?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Brina handed over the tissue in her bag. ¡°Could you be more gentle with your drinking? A lot of eyes are watching you, Giselle. They seem friendly and kind but I¡¯m sure they have other motives as well. We must remain vignt. Don¡¯t let that picture of you rushing around while drinking get out,¡± Brina said warningly.


    Giselle justughed. She grabbed her cell phone but before she fiddled with the contents, she chose to voice what was in her head. Not to refute Brina, but at least she broke the assumption of many people out there about the image of a public figure, which was voiced very well by Brina. ¡°Giselle Namiozuka is also an ordinary person. if you¡¯re thirsty, you¡¯ll want to finish your drink quickly. after all, only a few drops fell on the corner of your lips, right? Can¡¯t models and public figures make mistakes?¡±


    Brina smiled slightly. ¡°If many people agreed with your words I wouldn¡¯t have to worry. There are a lot of people out there who hate you. Unfortunately, they could be in your fan base.¡±


    Giselle chose to shake her head. Then her eyes fell on the many messages on her cell phone. But there was only a short time of interest, the rest of the sophisticated t object was back on the table.


    ¡°You¡­ didn¡¯t reply to any of the messages?¡±


    ¡°What for?¡± She leaned backfortably on the chair. Enjoying the soft breeze that caressed her. ¡°Not a message from Justin or Harvey. Nothing that¡¯s a priority in my life, really.¡±


    Brina was wide-eyed.


    ¡°Come on, I¡¯m hungry. We still have other activities, right?¡±

 [46]

    ¡°What a boring banquet,¡± Giselle whispered with a look of distaste. But then, she smiled broadly as she faced her guests tonight. Most of them were not far fromplimenting how beautiful Giselle looked tonight in the peach dress that made her look graceful and elegant at the same time. Her ck hair had changed, a little high light light brown before the banquet felt very different.


    ¡°I was really lucky to meet one of the finalists, oh¡­ not just a finalist but a favorite winner who is a lot of trendsetter nowadays,¡± praised Mr. Brulee, one of the important officials at the Ministry of Social Affairs.


    The invitation that Giselle attended was not only to fulfill an invitation from a radio station that was popr with the youth here, but also to entertain the other guests, most of whom were local officials. Rumor has it that this banquet is held regrly and brings in someone who is being talked about. And this time, that person was Giselle. However, Giselle couldn¡¯t refuse because she had turned down invitations like this before. But Justin said, ¡°This time, while you¡¯re in Newcastle,e as an SEO representative. There are many important peopleing. You just have to sit tight with Brina. I¡¯ll make sure nothing weird happens.¡±


    Since this was Justin¡¯s request, it was not easy for Giselle to refuse. So here she is, who also happens to have a lot of things to do in NewCastle.


    ¡°I think there¡¯s a lot to reference in fashion these days,¡± Giselle says with a bright smile. Which she makes as friendly as possible so as not to give the impression of being arrogant and feeling like she already has everything.


    ¡°How humble of you, Giselle.¡± Mr. Giovanni, the owner of Lovely Warm radioughed. ¡°My studio is already excited that you¡¯ll be the guest star tomorrow. Many have even sent messages for you to readter during the live broadcast.¡±


    Giselle matched theughter no less cheerfully. ¡°I can¡¯t wait for tomorrow. And I¡¯m very grateful for inviting me to such a festive event. I¡¯ve gotten to know many important guests in the New Castle area.¡±


    Giovanni chuckled casually. ¡°Don¡¯t take this as a burden for you. I feel very lucky that you can spare the time. Especially since your schedule is really tight, right?¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°If the future live broadcasts on Lovely Warm are not as warm and weing as Mr. Tuan said, I will no longer ept invitations from you.¡± Giselle joked. ¡°But on the other hand, if it¡¯s really fun, I¡¯ll considering back.¡±


    Giovanni and the other guestsughed. Some pped softly at Giselle¡¯s words. And some of them seemed to be talking about the cooperation that Giselle could do for them. asionally, Giselle also pulled Brina into their conversation. as a good helper, it seemed like Brina knew how to bnce what they wanted from Giselle.


    No. It wasn¡¯t weird and bad and undesirable, but rather a direct coboration without going through SEO. It was not allowed because Justin had to know what Giselle was doing when she was not under his supervision. It wasn¡¯t about taking advantage of Giselle¡¯s fame as much as possible. Oh¡­ not at all. Justin gave Brina a special message that he was worried about Giselle if she was acting recklessly.


    ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me,¡± Giselle said in a whisper. ¡°I really need some free air. You¡¯re okay with me leaving you alone, right?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t go too far,¡± Brina said half warningly. ¡°Many are staring at you and they may have evil intentions. Although this hall is heavily guarded, we still need to be vignt. This hall is surrounded by many reporters who would love to see news about you.¡±


    ¡°Alright alright,¡± Giselle rolled her eyes in annoyance but could not ignore one fact; Brina¡¯s words were indeed true. After asking for time with the excuse of the toilet, Giselle managed to extricate herself from what she found to be a boring conversation.


    Not far from business and talking a lot about what they had. Oh, and don¡¯t forget the power they had. I don¡¯t know, hearing it too often irritated Giselle. If she had been born the child of a powerful person, with a lot of power, and most importantly money, maybe she wouldn¡¯t have lost her mother so quickly. And she wouldn¡¯t be stranded in a ce she didn¡¯t want to remember until this moment.


    But can Giselle protest about her life path?


    No way. it¡¯s a ridiculous thing to protest.


    ¡°Ah, what a relief,¡± Giselle said as she sat down on one of the park benches. It was a little far from the hall but there was still a crowd in there. the sound of music and some joyfulughter colored what was inside. Even the lights were so bright as if to signify that there were only people in there with a bright me in their lives.


    He took a ss of wine from the waiter to apany him. ¡°Tsk! I should have taken the chocte pudding earlier. Especially since Brina isn¡¯t around, I think it¡¯s fine just for dessert.¡± She gently shook her ss. The deep color of the wine as well as the aroma that she was starting to pick up on were the perfect distraction for tonight. ¡°Well, it¡¯s not bad while there¡¯s not much talking around me.¡±


    The air that blew at night in New Castle was quite cold, even though the daytime passed rather hot. perhaps because of that, Brina often warned Giselle to take care of her health so as not to catch a fever in a region that was quite foreign to them.


    ¡°Sorry to disturb you, Miss Giselle.¡±


    Luckily, Giselle was not sipping her wine. Otherwise, she would have choked on her hebart due to the arrival of someone she did not recognize. For a moment, her eyes searched the person in front of her. Her tail also searched for the security guards who were on guard in case this person had malicious intentions towards her.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± asked Giselle with slightly narrowed eyes.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, I really didn¡¯t mean to disturb you or worry you.¡± The man, Andy, quickly took out the paper bag he was carrying. It was small but felt like a heavy burden to him. Moreover, if it was not delivered, his job could be the biggest threat. ¡°I have a delivery.¡±


    ¡°A deposit?¡± Giselle frowned. ¡°But¡­ who are you?¡± asked Giselle once again.


    ¡°You don¡¯t remember me?¡±


    Giselle tilted her face. Staring intently at the man she was talking to. His stature was rather thin, his eyes were also obscured by thick sses, his appearance was also ordinary. ¡°No. I¡¯m sorry I don¡¯t remember you. Have we met?¡±


    Andy smiled faintly in the end. ¡°Maybe you forgot, but I¡¯m one of the special reporters covering Miss¡¯ activities during the quarantine from The Coge.¡±


    Giselle could only nod although she did not understand because she did not know him. ¡°And what business do you have here, reporting?¡±


    ¡°No, Miss.¡± Andy once again held out the paper bag that Giselle had not yet received. ¡°There¡¯s a delivery for you from Mr. Andrew.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s Andrew.¡± Giselle¡¯s biggest memory of Andrew was the chocte delivery. She immediately picked up the paper bag and opened it.


    ¡°Please excuse me, Miss.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for delivering it for me.¡± Giselle smiled cheerfully, which made Andy flinch a little but then she walked away.


    ¡°No wonder the boss is infatuated. Giselle is indeed a stray angel on earth,¡± he muttered as he quickened his pace and picked up the cell phone he kept in his pocket. Inform him immediately if his mission was a sess.


    Meanwhile, Giselel looked at Andrew¡¯s post with sparkling eyes. ¡°He really kept his promise.¡±


    A card fell out along with the jar that Giselle took from inside. The girl read it whileughing at the message written on it.


    The bestbination of hazelnuts and chocte is a great choice for cookies tonight. I hope they suit your taste. The dosage has been adapted to the diet program and nutritional supervision of most models. Let me know if you like them. I¡¯ll send you more.


    _AK

 [47]

    ¡°You¡¯re so slow, Victor,¡± Giselle grumbled as the car Victor was driving entered the lobby area of the SEO building. The beautiful model did not have to wait for someone to open the door for her. She couldn¡¯t wait any longer. She wasn¡¯t content to just talk on the phone even though the news, which had onlye the day before, had already excited her.


    ¡°What¡¯s she so impatient about?¡± asked Victor in surprise. He was ready to get out of the car just to make sure Giselle didn¡¯t do anything strange, including not noticing him.


    Brina followed downter, letting out a long sigh as she took out Giselle¡¯s bag that she had left behind. ¡°She¡¯s looking forward to meeting her new friend.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Victor frowned slightly. ¡°The one who said he only joined today?¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Brina exhaled tiredly again.


    ¡°Looking at your suddenly depressed look, I¡¯m sure you must have gotten a much tougher assignment.¡± Victor chuckled.


    ¡°And I assure you that you were sshed with that heavy duty.¡±


    Brina¡¯s words received a very excitedugh from Victor. Even so, the man¡¯s hand swiftly helped Brina carry quite a lot of luggage.


    Meanwhile, Giselle, who was already in the elevator, was a little impatient to get down the hallway to Justin¡¯s room. She stares boredly at the numbers on the elevator¡¯s disy. Tapping her feet wrapped in red heels that matched the bandana she wore this afternoon, her return from New Castle was not to her apartment but to her office. For quite a lot of luggage, he had handed it over to Victor.


    She only needed to see with her own eyes the news that Giselle had been waiting fore true; Harvey joining her under the same banner.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re back already Giselle?¡±


    ¡°How are you?¡±


    As Giselle exited the elevator, walking down the corridor before turning into Justin¡¯s office, she passed several other junior models. It was impossible not to return their greetings, even if they stopped for a moment to slow down, but Giselle understood that returning their greetings had brought out the spirit in them. Brina once said that Giselle became a model who had a lot of influence on the SEO body. Including the spirit of the juniors to pursue their position.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Would you like to watch us train, Giselle?¡± asked one of her juniors. ording to Giselle, she has a slim figure and is suitable to be a professional model in the future.


    ¡°I think so,¡± Giselle smiled kindly at the crowd of juniors, which was immediately greeted withughter and a few whispers about how her training hours should be increased. Don¡¯t let Giselle get embarrassed watching them practice. When else could a senior model like Giselle be noticed. Which made Giselle grimace a little because she didn¡¯t feel that special.


    Even so, Giselle still maintains a safe distance to socialize.


    ¡°I have to meet Justin, you guys continue practicing.¡± Feeling that he had enough of the basics, he chose to immediately continue his steps towards Justin¡¯s room. Leaving behind the crowd of juniors who were still noisily talking about Giselle and the promised time. Maybe an hour or two of watching them practice wouldn¡¯t make Brina angry that Giselle had shifted her work time.


    ¡°Justin!¡± Giselle didn¡¯t need to knock on the door of this familiar room. After all, Justin¡¯s office door was wide open, allowing any SEO staff to wander in for a discussion. Justin could usually be disturbed when his office door was open like that.


    ¡°Can we not get excited?¡± Justin chuckled. Sitting rxed with his cigarette in hand, he stopped. He crushed the remaining long end into the ashtray. Getting up from his seat, he greeted Giselle with his arms stretched wide. ¡°I missed you, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle never refuses anything Justin does to her. It didn¡¯t matter who Justin¡¯s guest was this afternoon, she just wanted to be in his arms. ¡°Me too.¡± She returned the hug tightly. The smell of Justin¡¯s perfume was mixed with the cigarette that the man must have been enjoying.


    ¡°How was NewCastle?¡± asked Justin as he broke their embrace. scrutinizing with a fairly alert scan the entirety of Giselle in front of him. ¡°I guess you¡¯re really taking Brina at her word about the strict diet.¡±


    ¡°You guys are torturers!¡± Giselle frowned. ¡°I went on a chocte fast while in New Castle. You know, there¡¯s a chocte shop that¡¯s my favorite and I could only look at it from the outside.¡±


    Justinughed but then pulled Giselle¡¯s hand to sit down. ¡°Today is an exception. I gave you special permission. Brina won¡¯t be mad.¡±


    Giselle squinted suspiciously.


    ¡°Don¡¯t make that face. I look like a sinner.¡± Justin was stillughing at Giselle¡¯s expression, which he found funny.


    ¡°You guys are so close,¡± Harvey said with a surprised chuckle. Ever since Giselle arrived in Justin¡¯s office, he had wanted to greet her and talk. But as it turned out, Giselle waspletely distracted by her new boss. she didn¡¯t want to go into the details of how she ended up here. but one thing she did have to say was that she felt Justin was a crazy man.


    ¡°We¡¯re actually enemies, it¡¯s just that it¡¯s impossible to show that hostility in front of people,¡± Giselle said as she smoothed her long hair that was a little messy from the hug earlier. ¡°I¡¯m actually looking forward to meeting you.¡± She shifted in her seat but then, looking stricken, realized it wasn¡¯t just Harvey in Justin¡¯s room. Instead¡­


    ¡°Andrew?¡± She stared in disbelief at the man sitting in the other corner. ¡°Since when were you there?¡±


    Andrew, who was Justin¡¯s first guest, could only pull the corners of his lips as thin as possible. Distracting the feelings that were bubbling in his chest with the cup of coffee that was served to him. ¡°I think I was here an hour ago.¡±


    ¡°Looks like you had a fun chat, huh?¡± asked Giselle with a chuckle.


    ¡°I hope so.¡± Andrew downed his coffee. He was speechless at Giselle¡¯s overly close rtionship with Justin. Was it because of this man that Giselle couldn¡¯t be touched? He had guessed at the beginning but never expected to be presented with a scene that made his heart burn.


    Very hot.


    Until the air conditioning in this room could not immediately dispel this suffocating feeling.


    ¡°I¡¯ll send you the schedule for the promotion you requested, Justin.¡± Andrew got up from his position. Straightened the hem of his zer suit. Still trying to smile at Giselle who hadn¡¯t taken her eyes anywhere else. To Justin of course. Not to her. Ah¡­ pathetic.


    But no. He could not give up now.


    ¡°Hans I asked you to contact your side because we are the ones who need help.¡± Justinughed. ¡°Are you in a hurry to leave already?¡±


    ¡°There is still a lot to do.¡±


    Justin still maintained hisughter. ¡°In two weeks I want us to have a meeting. Can you make time? It doesn¡¯t matter if it¡¯s at The Coge. I¡¯m the one who needs your help for the next little while.¡±


    ¡°For Monochrome?¡±


    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re very good at reading situations.¡±


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°Rumors about this year¡¯s grand show that you¡¯re organizing have been flying around. There¡¯s just no official information yet.¡±


    ¡°I just got into a painful contract with the model who will be doing Monochrome.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± interrupted Harvey. ¡°Oh my God, I just realized and agree with you, Giselle. Justin is a jerk. I didn¡¯t hurt him. Making him chase me half to death was the right thing to do.¡±


    Justinughed. ¡°But you were hooked in the end, right?¡±


    Harvey spluttered but couldn¡¯t argue. Meanwhile, Giselle pped her hands excitedly. ¡°Wee to the SEO Family. You¡¯ll have to put up with all the craziness Justin can get up to.¡±


    Harvey could only roll his eyes in annoyance. But when Justin approaches and extends his hand, Harvey doesn¡¯t refuse. Instead, he let out a long sigh. ¡°Okay, I surrender my life to you.¡±


    Even Justin¡¯s other hand extended to Giselle, which was clearly not going to be rejected by the star.


    ¡°Together¡­ we¡¯ll make SEO soar even higher to the top peaks we can reach together,¡± Justin said quietly but the handshake wasn¡¯t quiet at all. Instead, it was tight and meaningful. Making the two girls beside him smile excitedly. ¡°I hope our partnership will always be filled with a sense of family, because to me, you¡¯re my precious little sister.¡±


    Andrew couldn¡¯t let go of the interaction between the three of them. Including the change in Giselle¡¯s expression, which seemed disturbed but was perfectly covered with her alluring smile.


    In the end, Andrew realized that the alluring smile was to bandage Giselle¡¯s disappointed heart. Could he rece that disappointment and rece that smile with a real smile? Although he wasn¡¯t sure, Andrew grasped one thing; he had a great chance to be next to Giselle.


    That¡¯s right. He was confident that he could melt Giselle¡¯s heart even if it took a long time. After all, he also had to take care of his personal affairs first, lest it distract him in the future. As long as Justin¡¯s gaze on Giselle didn¡¯t change, Andrew had plenty of chances to make Giselle turn to him. He was sure of it.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind meeting here, Justin. I¡¯d like to have an interview with an SEO model as well. What do you think?¡±

 [48]

    ¡°Thank you for the delivery,¡± Giselle said as she ate the sd she had ordered for her lunch. No. She didn¡¯t just eat sd, she needed a lot of energy because there were many things she wanted to do with Harvyey while in the city center.


    This included apanying the girl on her hunt for a unit to live in. The house Harvey had lived in in Mn was already being emptied. Some of his belongings are already packed and ready to be transported. It¡¯s a bit hard for Harvey to leave his childhood home, but what else can he say when his job requires him to be flexible?


    After all, there will be someone who regrly takes care of the house and makes sure it¡¯s always tidy even when it¡¯s unupied.


    They were eating at a restaurant not far from the SEO building. Justin should havee with them, but unfortunately Brina and Nico asked for time to discuss. Brina had a lot to say including Giselle¡¯s work at NewCastlest week. there were no problems, in fact many offers came in and could be transferred to other SEO models. at least the boss should know and be able to negotiate if it¡¯s not Giselle whoes forward, whether they have problems or not.


    Before the cooperation is created, it needs some clear things to be agreed upon. Otherwise, the image of SEO and the cooperation created was damaged. It would affect their rtionship in the future and for Justin, it was detrimental. Brina, who already knew what Justin¡¯s character was like, immediately restrained her boss from spending time outside. It was better to discuss long-term work.


    Luckily, Justin agreed and asked Giselle and Harvey to apany the guest who arrived earlier; Andrew Kingston.


    Harvey didn¡¯t mind, Giselle didn¡¯t mind either, so here they sat, enjoying the meal.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± asked Andrew with a slight smile. His hands were skillfully cutting the steak in front of him. Thest time he had enjoyed meat covered in an appetizing sauce was with Fania. The rest of the time he opted for sea food as a meal because of his fondness for protein sources from the sea as he grew up.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Giselleughed. ¡°It¡¯s so delicious. The sweetness melts on the tongue.¡±


    Harvey chuckled in surprise. ¡°When did you get tired of chocte?¡±


    ¡°Same question for you, Miss, when did you get rid of the soda?¡± Giselle stuck out her tongue teasingly at Harvey. ¡°Besides, the calories in the cookies Andrew sentst time were different from when we were quarantined.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    ¡°It¡¯s still chocte, Giselle. You really love that sweet treat.¡± Harvey took a big bite of the corn soup that was served to him. The warm vor that ran through his taste buds was so appetizing.


    Andrew could onlyugh at the arguments that were created at the dinner table. It was obvious that the friendship was pure sincerity. Although Andy had told him about their rtionship several times during quarantine, Andrew couldn¡¯t witness the intimacy firsthand. But now, he could feel this lucky, right?


    ¡°I¡¯ve talked to the head chef to make enough stock for you. The shelf life is also quite long even without preservatives.¡±


    Giselle looked at Andrew with a sparkling look. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes. As long as you are not tormented during the activities.¡±


    Suddenly Giselle¡¯s smile faded which made Andrew look at her in surprise.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did I say something wrong?¡±


    Giselle shook her head lightly. ¡°I think the one tormenting me is Brina. Even though I told her about the content of the cookies, she still doesn¡¯t believe me. She said I could have been tricked.¡±


    Andrewughed. ¡°What would I do that for? Something you love, I¡¯ll fight to keep you enjoying.¡±


    Harvey cleared his throat loudly. ¡°The mouth of a CEO of The Coge can be this sweet, huh?¡±


    Andrew looked at Harvey with a faint smile. ¡°Are you distracted?¡±


    Harvey¡¯s hand shot up immediately. ¡°I¡¯m used to seeing conversations even to the point of disgusting scenes happening in in sight. If you want to do it, just pretend I¡¯m not here. I still want to enjoy this corn soup.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Giselle scowled in displeasure. She had already finished the sd on her te. Her stomach also felt full. ¡°I need the toilet. Excuse me for a moment. Don¡¯t make any noise, especially you, Harvey.¡±


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Harvey chuckled in annoyance but only briefly. He stares at Giselle¡¯s back until she disappears down the corridor to the restroom directed by the sign. He goes back to savoring the rest of his corn soup.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Maya¡¯s top model to turn to SEO.¡± Andrew could not ignore Harvey¡¯s presence in front of him. As one of the entertainment actors, although behind the scenes, Andrew and his knowledge of the people involved in front of the camera, he mostly knows. Including some of the secrets that are perfectly covered up by them for personal interests.


    ¡°What Justin is offering is more tempting. Naturally, I¡¯m interested, right?¡±


    Andrew smiled slightly. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can believe that or not. Maya doesn¡¯t make concessions easily, especially when you¡¯re one of the people she relies on the most.¡±


    Harvey grinned. The spoon that was originally used to bribe the corn soup, was put down slowly even though it made a disturbing sound. Harvey¡¯s eyes looked intently at Andrew. He knew what Andrew could do to put him on the edge of life. Whether the orders of the man in front of him could help him rise as high as he could reach, or turn himself into a time bomb. ¡°I wondered, too, how someone with so much influence could do what Justin said.¡±


    Andrew was silent. The tail of his eyes returned Harvey¡¯s unfriendly gaze.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t think it¡¯s just the co-op thing that makes you do what Justin wants, right?¡± Harvey reached for the ss that held his drink. He took a slow sip, moistening his throat where the taste of corn soup still lingered. This lunch was delicious enough to savor slowly. Giselle says they need to have more energy because there¡¯s a lot to do.


    Getting to know Giselle during the two-week quarantine period, Harvey knew and understood that Giselle¡¯s words were no toy. It might be even crazier when they actually do it.


    ¡°What I do has nothing to do with you.¡± Andrew went back to enjoying his meal. He never left any food on the te that had been served to him. His mother had taught him that he had to finish his meal. There are many people out there who are not lucky enough to be able to enjoy good food like Andrew is enjoying right now.


    ¡°I know,¡± Harvey said immediately. ¡°But you need to underline one thing, Andrew.¡± Harvey¡¯s eyes became more and more focused on Andrew, who seemed to be ignoring him. It doesn¡¯t matter, as long as Harvey¡¯s words this time are listened to thoughtfully.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine with any girl you approach as long as it¡¯s not Giselle. Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know about your rtionship with Fania Langham.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s hand, which was holding the fork, was getting a stronger grip.


    ¡°Langham and Kingston had quite aplicated rtionship in the past. It would be very troublesome if Kingston knew that you were approaching another girl and ignoring Langham. Even though you can count the years of our friendship on your fingers, I don¡¯t want anyone to hurt my friend. Understood?¡±


    Andrew swallowed softly. ¡°Who the hell are you?¡±

 [49]

    ¡°You¡¯re waiting for Mr. Andrew,¡± Nindy said with a nervous look. Since earlier, she had been pacing back and forth in front of her desk. Not because there was no work to be done, but the arrival of her bossplete with irrefutable orders made her put her work aside first.


    She and Andy had to quickly work on the boss¡¯s new orders. Nindy¡¯s part was done, it was just Andy and his report. But I don¡¯t know what prevented Andy from returning to the office, it seemed so slow. Was it because he was tense? I don¡¯t know.


    What is clear is that when she saw Andy¡¯s staggering arrival, Nindy breathed a sigh of relief as if the heavy burden on her shoulders had just been lifted.


    ¡°Boss is inside?¡± asked Andy without breaking stride.


    ¡°Yes, you are expected.¡±


    Not long after, Andy disappeared behind the door of Andrew¡¯s room. The man bowed slightly after handing over some shabby-looking files. It wasn¡¯t his intention to give a report in a messy state. Not only had the boss asked him to be an impromptu information seeker, but what he was being asked to do was also out of the question.


    ¡°What¡­ is there something missing, sir?¡± she asked quietly. He had to hold his breath so as not to disturb the concentration of the man who seemed to be busy flipping through the reports Andy could provide.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± the boss said simply. ¡°You can go back to your post. There¡¯s still coverage elsewhere, right?¡±


    ¡°The coverage of Miss World activities has been handled by another team. Tomorrow the ten main finalists will be covered during the visit to the Ministry of Culture.¡±


    Andrew didn¡¯t need to raise his eyes that were still paying attention to every word written in the report that was the focus of his attention. He only replied with a small nod. Letting Andy walk away from his room. Even the door that was closed tightly returned as before.


    After reading the entire report up to thest line, Andrew¡¯s smile grew even halfway. ¡°Damn it, Harvey, you can hide something this big without anyone knowing.¡± He chuckled. Leaning backfortably in his oversized chair. Turning slowly as if ying with his seat. Silence was again his most faithfulpanion during his work.


    ¡°But I¡¯m curious,¡± He stopped his movement. Her back straightened without order. She also supported her face with both hands. Again his eyes were filled with the reports and photos Andy had collected for him. ¡°Does Justin know the background Harvey is hiding?¡± He folded a smile to himself. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± It was a question the other man should have answered, not him, but there was no way he could talk to Justin now.


    Harvey was none of his business. He doesn¡¯t care what the girl¡¯s background really is. After all, she felt the sincerity in Harvey¡¯s eyes that she found creepy. But given the girl¡¯s past and circumstances, it is certain that the look in his eyes is different from the others. They are burning with a grudge that will not be easily extinguished.


    ¡°Finish your business with Langham, Kingston. Otherwise, you¡¯ll obviously find out about me after this.¡± Harvey grinned slightly. Then whistled as if he won a big game. With the tail of his eyes asionally pointing at the corridor leading to the toilet. Just in case, Giselle was done with her business. It could raise questions if their conversation was overheard by the girl.


    ¡°If not, what are you going to do?¡± asked Andrew trying to remain calm. He had already prepared in his heart what to do to deal with the girl who seemed brave and fearless.


    ¡°As a friend, I won¡¯t support your feelings for Giselle.¡±


    Andrewughed. ¡°That answer is so on point.¡±


    ¡°I can be your ally if you want. Although my friendship with Giselle is not based on anything as dirty as supporting your romance, but I think Giselle bettere out of her illusory shell.¡±


    Andrew began to lose hisughter. Staring seriously at the girl who seemed to be casually ying with words but what came out of her lips, really hit the mark. ¡°You¡­ support me?¡±


    ¡°Actually, no.¡± Harveyughed with his goofy smile. ¡°I¡¯m sure there are many men out there who are much better than you. But hearing stories about you during quarantine made me realize. You¡¯re serious. But unfortunately, your family¡¯s snares are impossible to ignore.¡±


    Andrew was again silent.


    ¡°So, before it gets any further, take care of it and finish it. If you feel you can¡¯t, let Giselle go. Don¡¯t keep fertilizing your feelings. There will be a time when Giselle is vulnerable and it could be that, at that time, what you¡¯ve done begins to distract her. But at the same time, you¡¯ll be powerless to be by her side. And I don¡¯t want that to happen.¡±


    Harvey¡¯s words rang through her head again. He let out a long sigh and again leaned his back against the back of the chair. ¡°What should I do to break the bond?¡± She massaged her suddenly tired temples.


    Not long after, the cell phone on the table buzzed like a bee. It was noisy. Usually, he only hears it twice and then it goes silent again, but this time it was long enough to make his desk vibrate gently with annoyance. ¡°Who, anyway?¡±


    Fania¡¯s name appeared on the screen which made her quickly swipe the green icon there. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, can¡¯t you return my greetings first?¡±


    What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Andrew, ignoring Fania¡¯s whining. He chose to return to staring at his work screen. Working while talking on the phone was amon practice. After all, Andrew¡¯s hands were very skillful at tidying up his files. He didn¡¯t let anyone else know what he was observing.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget tonight you have toe to Street Ocean 13. Have dinner together.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°Why should I?¡±


    ¡°You want me toe alone? Get caught up in this ridiculous talk about our closeness?¡± Fania grumbled without pause. ¡°We should be stuck together. I don¡¯t want to eat with aggravation in my heart.¡±


    The man loosened the hook of his tie. ¡°I have a meeting with WIT Studio. They want crucial hours at King Studio. You know, it can¡¯t be talked about and decided haphazardly. But what WIT is offering is so tempting. I couldn¡¯t pass up the opportunity.¡±


    There was a long sigh.


    ¡°I sent you a card. You are free to use it.¡±


    ¡°You forget that I¡¯m Langham? I have a lot of cards too,¡± Fania snapped distastefully.


    ¡°My apologies.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°I¡¯m not downying how Langham is in Kingston¡¯s eyes. But you know, I need WIT¡¯s cooperation.¡±


    ¡°All right,¡± Fania said finally. ¡°But after dinner, I have to see you.¡±


    ¡°Late at night?¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡±


    ¡°You asked,¡± Andrewughed. ¡°I don¡¯t mind being visited by beautiful women. But I¡¯m still thinking of the many risks including being stalked by your girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°How annoying!¡±


    ¡°Eight o¡¯clock at Road Caffe. I¡¯ll wait for you there. How about it?¡±


    ¡°Double hamburger with c. I need food that can distract me during the nauseating dinnerter.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Again there was a long sigh from Fania. ¡°When will it end?¡±

 [50]

    ¡°Will you stop smiling?¡± asked Justin with a scowl. It wasn¡¯t that he didn¡¯t want to see the joy on his model¡¯s face, but ever since he picked her up at the apartment, that smile just wouldn¡¯t go away. Not to mention her level of annoyance was really maxed out. It made Justin feel dizzy.


    ¡°You, you¡¯re not happy when I¡¯m happy?¡± Giselle pursed her lips.


    ¡°You¡¯re troublesome!¡± Justin nced sarcastically at the girl who giggled at the sight of him holding back the anger in his heart.


    ¡°As a good boss, it¡¯s a good thing to apany the biggest name contributor to the event you¡¯re attending.¡± Giselle took out a small mirror from her bag. Making sure that her appearance was perfectly adhered to her face including the hairdo that she kept as simple as possible. She didn¡¯t want to get too excited just because the event was organized by Ford as part of the promotion of Miss World and the winners. Not forgetting the paper bag at the back containing her sash and crown. Which will be needed during the event until the afternoon.


    ¡°It¡¯s the same with Brina or me anyway, Giselle. I have a lot to do at SEO.¡± Justin shook his head in surprise but could no longer show his annoyed face. harboring irritation at Giselle was also useless. the girl would never tire of whining until she got what she wanted.


    ¡°It wouldn¡¯t hurt to keep mepany once in a while.¡± Giselle sat back and rxed, her tail ncing at Justin who could only let out a long sigh. ¡°I¡¯m in Long Ind next month. Irena said it could be up to three weeks. You¡¯re free of me, right?¡±


    Justin sneered. ¡°You think I don¡¯t have a schedule there?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyeballs immediately widened in excitement. ¡°Are you serious?¡±


    ¡°I have something to discuss at Ice Property. It seems like realizing thetest boutique there should be aplished soon. The market on Long Ind is quite big.¡±


    Giselle nodded in agreement. ¡°But I think you should get a ce that¡¯s really suitable.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I had to check for myself. Which ce is suitable for the SEO Boutique there. It didn¡¯t matter if it took a long time to agree as long as it was suitable and in ordance with SEO itself.¡±


    ¡°You know the most about it.¡± Giselle smiled proudly. At the man who was still focused on the steering wheel. The direction to the Ministry of Culture was quite a distance from Giselle¡¯s apartment. Buildings rted to Centralia officials and the ministry were in a separate sector. It was different from the business area which was quite congested and famous for traffic jams at certain hours.


    ¡°Since Harvey is also attending this event, you¡¯re going home with him. No problem, right?¡±


    Giselle shook her head immediately.


    ¡°I¡¯m still curious, why don¡¯t you want a car as a reward from me for your victory?¡± asked Justin, who was not distracted from the steering wheel and the road in front of him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need a car yet. What good are you if I can drive myself anyway?¡±


    Justin spluttered. ¡°You¡¯re too much.¡±


    ¡°Only to you am I like this.¡± Giselleughed. ¡°With Victor or Nico, I often get scolded for asking for strange things, but with you, I always find new fun. Including eating in ces I¡¯ve never been before.¡±


    ¡°They are working, Giselle. They have responsibilities to bear, including your safety.¡±


    ¡°But you can do two things at the same time.¡± Giselle frowned. ¡°It¡¯s not every day you go out with me anyway, is it?¡±


    ¡°Yes-yes-yes, you won.¡±


    Giselle was still unwilling to get rid of the frown on her face. ¡°When I first joined, you always apanied me whether it was to meet clients or during photo shoots.¡±


    ¡°I need to make sure you¡¯refortable, Giselle. And I also need to see how you¡¯re doing out there.¡± Justinughed at that. ¡°You¡¯re like a five-year-old who¡¯s sulking about not being given candy.¡±


    ¡°Reckless!¡± Giselle felt like hitting Justin but she realized that he was focused on the steering wheel. So she abandoned her intention, and reced it with her eyes that were focused on nothing but enjoying the man who dominated her heart.


    Maybe not from the moment they met, but over time, Giselle realized that Justin is a man with a gentle heart whose kindness cannot be expressed in words. Her admiration for the man who is hardworking, thoughtful, and knows the easiest way to get things done is growing day by day. Moreover, their togetherness is quite intense.


    Unfortunately¡­


    ¡°I heard your rtionship with Andrew is quite close?¡± Through the tail of his eyes, Justin nced over to notice how Giselle¡¯s expression this time. the smile that was there earlier, was still there.


    ¡°It¡¯s normal.¡± Giselle cleared her throat briefly. ¡°I already apologized to you about the gifts he gave me, especially the chocte.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what he gave you.¡± Justin chuckled.


    ¡°Why is that?¡± asked Giselle with a curious look. ¡°He gave me a lot of gifts after finals night. You know that, right? I haven¡¯t had a chance to ask you how you responded to the gifts I received.¡±


    ¡°What am I supposed to respond to? It¡¯s for you, right?¡± Justin turned the wheel slightly, entering a courtyard with a fairly high gate. several officers immediately approached the car Justin was driving to check. The security around the ministry cannot be underestimated. But Justin came as an invited guest who must be treated well.


    ¡°He has the purpose of giving me gifts. And well¡­ a little attention.¡± Giselle smiled faintly at the officer checking their identities. Justin¡¯s car window went up automatically as the car began to enter the building.


    From a distance, the ministry of culture looks majestic. Surrounded by manicured gardens and a striking white building. I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s the main hall or if it¡¯s dedicated to receiving guests, but it gives the impression that it¡¯s separate from the blue building behind it.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°I know,¡± Justin said with a faint smile. ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Giselleughed amusedly at Justin¡¯s question. ¡°I don¡¯t want to respond to any of Andrew¡¯s concerns and feelings.¡±


    ¡°I think he¡¯s a nice guy.¡± Justin reached out and gently rubbed the top of Giselle¡¯s head. ¡°Even if he¡¯s annoying.¡±


    Giselle was silent as she enjoyed Justin¡¯s stroking. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± She agreed with him. ¡°Andrew is a pain in the ass.¡±


    ¡°If he messes with you or offends your past, I will take action. I don¡¯t care if it¡¯s a public drama war, I want him to feel the same way.¡±


    Giselle only carved a faint smile. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I haven¡¯t thought about being as close as you imagine.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind if you have a romantic rtionship with another man. Not only do I need to know who that man is, I also have the right to express my opinion about your rtionship. After all, you are one of the spearheads of SEO. I don¡¯t want SEO to be crippled by your mood being disturbed because of a romantic rtionship.¡±


    The girl still wouldn¡¯t make a sound.


    ¡°Especially until there¡¯s bad press about the impact of your rtionship. You know what I mean, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Justin. But I really don¡¯t want to respond to anything Andrew gives including his feelings.¡±


    Justin smiled a little. ¡°I have no right to interfere in that matter. You and your heart decide how to judge Andrew and whether he¡¯s worthy of being with you as a lover.¡±


    ¡°I want someone else who has the vor of Andrew berries.¡±


    ¡°Wow, what a lucky guy you are.¡± Justin pulled the handbrake. The car he was driving stopped right in the lobby. ¡°Come on, we¡¯re tu-


    ¡°What about your feelings for me, Justin?¡±


    Suddenly, that remark immediately made Justin stop his movement. His eyes stared in surprise at Giselle who seemed to be waiting for an answer from him. ¡°How do I feel about you?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you rece Andrew¡¯s feelings for me so that I can reciprocate with joy?¡±

 [51]

    ¡°Why the gloomy look on your face?¡± asked Harvey as he ced a mineral bottle on the table where they had chosen to pull over after two hours of touring the ministry. They stopped asionally to listen to exnations about the country¡¯s rich culture that needed to be further developed.


    Ford¡¯s program this time coborated with the ministry of culture and the finalists to boost the economic sector. As the designated representative, the third ce contestant of Mimm World, Harvey Princessa, was asked to study many ces that could be showcased to the publicter.


    Harvey doesn¡¯t mind; he loves the beautiful ces in the country. Although he only visited some areas asionally, he took the time to visit the tourist attractions there. The other finalists had different tasks, including Giselle. But all of them look happy because the promotion of tourist attractions and rted to the culture and ethnicity in the country they live in has its own excitement.


    However, Giselle, who had been looking gloomy since she arrived, raised questions from Harvey. Although the girl was able to cover up her gloomy face with a smile and rather cheerful behavior, it could not cover up Harvey¡¯s observation.


    ¡°Me?¡± Giselle blinked twice. Immediately picked up the bottle Harvey had given her. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said sincerely. Gulped it down until half was left. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Harvey.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Harvey replied with a chuckle. He took a seat next to Giselle. Enjoying a break before the tourism seminar resumes. The event ended in a group photo session with the ministry¡¯s people including the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Ms. Juliet Swan. A middle-aged woman who was the main speaker at this seminar.


    ¡°What¡¯s not?¡± asked Giselle with augh. ¡°You¡¯re just jumping to conclusions. Since I¡¯ve been attending this event, I haven¡¯t missed anything. It¡¯s all quite exciting and fun.¡±


    Harvey still maintained his faint smile. ¡°Just keep lying to yourself. But I¡¯m not fooled.¡±


    Giselle let out a long sigh, no longer making a sound. Which left Harvey to keep his new friend upied with the thoughts in his mind. Harvey wanted to tell her about the excitement when Justin came to Maya¡¯s invitation at his agency. It was quite a debate but Harvey couldn¡¯t let it slide. It was too exciting to ignore. Unfortunately, Harvey keeps this story to himself until Giselle is in a better mood.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    There will be plenty of time for Harvey to simply tell stories.


    ¡°I won¡¯t give up,¡± Giselle said quietly. Her hand twisted the water bottle with half the water left in it.


    ¡°If the results you¡¯ll get are worth your sacrifice, I guess it doesn¡¯t matter. But if what you¡¯re fighting for isn¡¯t worth it, shouldn¡¯t you back off?¡±


    Giselle looked at Harvey with a look of disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re not supporting me?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t heard the full story from you yet.¡± The girl Giselle was talking to chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s just my personal opinion. Whatever if it¡¯s rted to what you¡¯re thinking now.¡±


    ¡°Come with me to buy lots of chocte treats,¡± Giselle said half-whining. ¡°I need something sweet to take the edge off.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re such a dramacholic, aren¡¯t you,¡± Harveyughed. But seeing Giselle¡¯s frowning face, Harvey relents. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll go with you. But don¡¯t you have an event in Long Ind next week? Is it okay if you eat a lot of chocte?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I can go on a diet again.¡± Giselleughed at that. ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t expect the time to pass so quickly.¡± A nce at the clock wrapped around her right arm already pointed to two. The time when the seminar would resume soon. ¡°We should get back.¡±


    ¡°I hope I don¡¯t get sleepy listening to Woddy¡¯s lecture.¡±


    ¡°You still don¡¯t like that guy?¡±


    Harvey grinned sarcastically. ¡°Since when has Woddy¡¯s name been on my list of useful people? He¡¯s one of those annoying guys who should be avoided.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of Woddy, his affair with Kristen wentpletely unnoticed by the media. That¡¯s great.¡± Giselle walked along with Harvey at her side. She spoke in a half-whisper so that no one else could hear. After all, the person Giselle was talking about was a high-profile figure here, so they should not get involved in trivial matters that could be used as further drama by Kristen.


    Just thinking about it makes Giselle sick.


    ¡°Woddy has plenty of money to cover his scandals.¡± Harvey chuckled. He asionally greeted the people who passed by them, most of whom were finalists as well. ¡°A rotten carcass, one day it will be found out. While they¡¯re the number one talk, I¡¯ll be the one cheering because this year¡¯s Miss World judging is totally unfair. I¡¯m supporting number two so I can win.¡±


    Giselle raised her hands in surrender. ¡°Joana deserves to be the overall champion. Their scoring points are only slightly different.¡±


    ¡°Right, right?¡±


    ¡°But if Kristen hadn¡¯t won, you wouldn¡¯t have met Justin. You¡¯d still be working under Maya¡¯s armpit. No meeting me, Harvey,¡± Giselle said proudly. ¡°So thank you that I won the bet.¡±


    Laughing, they rushed to the room that was already filled with other contestants. Almost all the contestants who arrived seemed eager to get back to the show. Although Harvey was sure that most of them just wanted to be on the front page of the gossip and news pages.


    Giselle¡¯s eyes caught something familiar. The man was rather thin in stature but carried arge camera in his hands with ease. ¡°I just realized that the reporter for this event is from The Coge¡¯s side,¡± muttered the girl.


    ¡°Where have you been?¡± Harvey spluttered. ¡°Look, the lineup of invited guests this afternoon.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes widened as one person after another entered the seminar room. And the arrival of the guest also made the atmosphere more festive. It was not umon for Giselle to hear gasps of admiration and praise for the man wearing a ck zer who had just sat in his chair.


    Whether anyone noticed or not, the man swept his gaze across all the contestants. As if looking for a figure in the middle of the existing contestants. once he found who he was looking for, the man smiled very thinly. while nodding, as if to tell if there was a sense of pleasure in meeting the owner of the eyes that became the opposite of his gaze.


    Giselle could only reply with a faint smile. Suddenly, she remembered her conversation with Justin earlier. Including ¡­ Justin¡¯s response to her words.


    ¡°Have fun inside with Harvey. I¡¯ll pretend this conversation doesn¡¯t exist, Giselle, because to me you¡¯re a very precious sister to me. I always wish you happiness in the future.¡± Justin again gently rubbed the top of Giselle¡¯s head. He quickly unbuckled his seat belt, got out at a half-run, and opened the door for Giselle. ¡°Come on. Don¡¯t make anyone else wait.¡±


    There¡¯s nothing Giselle can do but obey him, right?

 [52]

    Fania smiled slightly at the man who opened the door for her car. During her stay in Centralia, she could not move around freely and even her schedule was arranged by her mother. Age-wise, she was no longer a child who could easily get lost.


    ¡°It seems like you enjoyed your role during the event.¡±


    The graceful girl wearing a knee-length skirt with a matching zer, just pouted while making her seatfortable. She didn¡¯t care about the other passengersughing at her. ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± The interlocutor intensified his frivolousughter. ¡°I¡¯m part of the show, right? In case you¡¯ve forgotten, I own the broadcasting rights to their show.¡±


    Fania rolled her eyes in disgust. ¡°You should have taken your own car. Not riding in my car.¡± She folded her arms across her chest. Her eyes grew more cynical as she looked at the passenger who had casually sat beside her.


    To which the passenger just chuckledzily. Propping up his chin with a hand perched on the side of the car window.


    Seeing the man¡¯s reaction made Fania let out a long sigh. She did not want to be in this situation. ¡°Why do we have to attend such a boring event?¡±


    ¡°Ask your mom,¡± Andrew said. ¡°I have so much work to do.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it your fault for noting to dinner that time? Were you busy in a meeting? I gave you the best excuse but you still-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget that your meeting with your beloved is known to your mother,¡± Andrew interrupted with a look of displeasure. ¡°If you had been more careful when you met, I don¡¯t think there would have been any dinner. Mrs. Grace understands that I¡¯m busy.¡±


    Fania chuckled in distaste but couldn¡¯t deny that Andrew¡¯s words had some truth to them. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect your mother to watch until she couldn¡¯t breathe.¡± Her shoulders drooped weakly.


    ¡°Never have a stupid encounter like that in a public ce,¡± Andrew said sympathetically. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you ask for my help anyway?¡±


    Fania grew more and more lethargic. ¡°Sean asked me to meet him right away. I didn¡¯t have time to make ns.¡±


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°We had a good dinner.¡±


    ¡°What kind of good do you want?¡± Fania massaged the bridge of her nose. ¡°I actually have a lot of activities here, but if I¡¯m being watched like that, I¡¯d rather make a fake permit. I don¡¯t like this kind of restraint.¡±


    ¡°Finish your business here first. You are a potential resource for Ford to develop ns for tourism in Centralia using Miss World contestants.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Fania interjected with a short sigh. ¡°The idea is quite good and I wouldn¡¯t mind a further interview. Besides, I¡¯ve seen some people seem excited.¡±


    Andrew agreed with what Fania had just said.


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t expect that if one of the contestants, aggravated, I¡¯d have to get in touch with her again.¡± Fania chuckled. ¡°What a reckless girl.¡±


    ¡°You should see her as quite a ssy model.¡±


    ¡°I was busy with exhibitions and paintings. There¡¯s no time to pay attention to my surroundings let alone that girl.¡±


    Andrewughed. ¡°I¡¯m quite surprised you guys didn¡¯t fight in the seminar room.¡±


    Fania scowled. ¡°You think I¡¯m a five-year-old boy?¡± She straightened her seat. Slightly facing her interlocutor who seemed to be casually enjoying the ride. ¡°But on top of that, I really had no idea who the girl was that captured your attention.¡±


    A faint smirk involuntarily formed at the corner of Andrew¡¯s lips.


    ¡°I¡¯m with you, Andrew. Get the girl and break our silly bond. I also want to achieve the real love of my life.¡±


    ***


    ¡°Are you daydreaming, Harvey?¡± asked Giselle as she put some chocte jam in her shopping cart. Once again, she checked the contents of the basket, which was mostly for household needs. The unit Harvey was going to move into was still empty.


    As a good friend, Giselle helped Harvey with the shopping. After all, they had nothing else to do after the seminar at the Ministry of Culture. There were no activities that required their attention.


    ¡°No.¡± Harveyughed widely. He shook his head hurriedly which immediately got Giselle¡¯s attention.


    ¡°You said I¡¯m not good at lying.¡± Giselle squinted suspiciously. ¡°But actually, you¡¯re the one who can¡¯t shut out the restlessness in your heart. Right?¡±


    Harvey sighed softly. ¡°Let¡¯s get this shopping over with. I¡¯m tired.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°Tired from where?¡± She pushed her shopping cart. ¡°I¡¯ve been filling this trolley since before. You just said yes without choosing anything.¡±


    Harvey chuckled as he scratched the back of his neck. ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°What on earth are you thinking about?¡± asked Giselle curiously. ¡°Before the seminar, you were so excited. Even when you were talking to the speaker, who I thought was pretty cool, you were still focused. But now?¡±


    ¡°I just didn¡¯t expect to be associated with them again.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°They?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell youter.¡± Harvey embraced Giselle a little tighter. Making his best friend unhappy and pushing her away. Giselle usually embraced much tighter than Harvey did, but Harvey was forbidden to protest.


    So selfish, right?


    Their shopping spree was over. Threerge bags were already in the back trunk of Harvey¡¯s car. Just as Justin had said earlier, no one picked Giselle up at the ministry building. Because they knew the two of them would be spending time together. Giselle didn¡¯t mind being with Harvey at all, even though her head was still full of distractions from Justin¡¯s probing questions that he had openly asked her.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Harvey said cheerfully after the apartment attendant kindly helped carry their heavy luggage out. At least they didn¡¯t have to exert much effort because of the shopping bags.


    ¡°Ah¡­ I can¡¯t wait to take these shoes off,¡± Giselle said as she took off her high shoes. ¡°You haven¡¯t bought a shoe rack here yet?¡±


    Harvey chuckled. ¡°You know, I only moved in three days ago. There¡¯s no time to buy a lot of stuff because of the crazy SEO schedule.¡±


    ¡°You should get used to it soon.¡± Giselleughed. ¡°I¡¯ll help you before I finish my work schedule. SEO has a tight schedule. If there¡¯s no work, we have to practice and Justin has been used as a living statue several times.¡±


    Harvey couldn¡¯t get over Giselle¡¯s choice of words. He handed a can of cold juice to Giselle to quench her thirst. Before long, the can only had a little of its contents left because it had moved.


    ¡°What do you think of Fania?¡± asked Giselle with a curious look. ¡°For some time toe, you¡¯ll be seeing a lot of her. Including seeing Kristen, anyway.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Harvey sneered. ¡°This Kristen is really annoying. If it weren¡¯t for my obligations as Ford¡¯s representative for tourism, I¡¯d be toozy to be in the same frame with Kristen.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Giselle sat casually on the sofa in the living room of Harvey¡¯s unit.pared to hers, the unit her best friend lived in was not too big. The arrangement of the space and the color selection of the decor felt very Harvey. ¡°Fortunately, I have a small portion of Christian contacts.¡±


    ¡°Lucky,¡± Harvey said with a sigh and an exasperated droop of the shoulders.


    Giselle¡¯s cell phone rang quite loudly. It made them both a bit surprised and the owner immediately took the phone out of the bag.


    Andrew. K :


    Finished the interview for Monochrome, can we talk? Just the two of us?


    The message made Giselle blink softly. ¡°Isn¡¯t the interview for the Monochrome event in two weeks?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± asked Harvey in surprise.


    ¡°Andrew asked me to meet and talk. Did he forget it wasn¡¯t the next day?¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you reply?¡± asked Harvey, ying with his eyebrows. It rises and falls to tease Giselle, who is now scowling in disapproval.


    ¡°You see,¡± She showed me the message history between them. ¡°I never text Andrew back unless it¡¯s really important. And I don¡¯t think the meeting he wants is important to my life. So why would I reply?¡±

 [53]

    Andrew put down his cutlery rather roughly. His chest heaved with emotion. His eyes went nowhere but to the middle-aged man sitting at the end of the table. His gaze was sharp and cynical but Andrew didn¡¯t care. He waspletely provoked by his anger and emotions.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± asked Hanry with a faintugh. The meal was over. There was no need to savor what was on the table anymore. Nothing had managed to whet his appetite until he felt his wish was about to be realized. While his eyes watched how the figure of the woman who proposed dinner together was reorganized.


    He said it was to familiarize himself with the prospective extended family who would soon be tied in holy matrimony.


    ¡°I still have a lot to take care of, Pa. You know that for sure, right?¡± Andrew growled under his breath. ¡°Fania has a lot to do anyway.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Mr. Hanry.¡± Fania spoke up. ¡°My art project in Centralia is rather time-consuming andbor-intensive. I¡¯d hate for anyone to help.¡±


    This time Grace got involved in her daughter¡¯s fights. Including the man who will be her son-inw. Why do the two of them seem to be working together as if there is a hidden cooperation to dy their marriage again? Isn¡¯t a three-year engagement rtionship between them enough?


    ¡°If you follow the busy schedules of the two of you, Mommy doesn¡¯t think it will be possible to meet at a convenient time.¡± She took a sip of the wine that was served to her. As an ending to a dinner that she thought was quite normal. There was some talk about the family although it was mostly about business and cooperation with many parties.


    ¡°It¡¯s true what your mother said, Fania,¡± Hanry said, leaning backfortably in his chair. ¡°This dinner should result in an agreement on the date of your wedding. We don¡¯t want to hear any excuses you cane up with.¡±


    ¡°But, Pa,¡± Andrew cut in immediately. ¡°I told you how busy things are at The Coge.¡±


    ¡°You can leave it to someone you can trust, right? There are so many people working under you, none of whom you trust?¡±


    Andrew looked away. Holding back his chest that was rumbling with annoyance.


    ¡°I want you to get married three months from now. What else is there to dy? You¡¯re both adults.¡±


    Fania stared at her mother who was talking out of her ass. ¡°Our maturity is not to be driven about marriage, is it?¡±


    ¡°And your three years were wasted?¡± Grace looked at her daughter with a suspicious squint. ¡°Don¡¯t make too many excuses, Fania. Don¡¯t let me ban all your activities.¡±


    ¡°Mom!¡± Fania let out a little squeal of disapproval. She knew it was rude to make a disturbing noise as the spoon shed with the te during a meal. But Fania really didn¡¯t like what her mother had just said.


    ¡°Thank you for dinner. I think this is it.¡± Andrew got up from his seat. He also didn¡¯t care if his father was staring at him like a hawk. Ready to draw his wrath and surely get him into even bigger trouble. but really, Andrew couldn¡¯t take it anymore.


    Even if the consequences were great, this man had reached the limit of his patience.


    ¡°Sit down,¡± Hanry ordered in an absolute tone. He no longer looked at his son casually and felt he could control a child whose presence was not really considered. But for this coboration, he needed Andrew to do what he wanted. Who was his hope? No one else.


    His beloved son met God twenty years ago. The ident that took Andreas Kingston¡¯s life left Hanry devastated and changed his mind about his second son.


    ¡°I have some business, Papa. Please excuse me. Please forgive my impoliteness.¡± Andrew gave her a quick nce and continued to walk away from tonight¡¯s disgusting banquet. He loosened his tie to breathe freely. Although his head was filled with fear because his father¡¯s anger usually had a big impact, but just this once, he voiced his heart.


    Hisrge strides continued through the restaurant until he reached the main lobby. He chuckled as he remembered that the car and driver that used to take him to wherever he wanted to go had been asked to go home. If he waited for a pickup, it would certainly take a long time.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t invite me?¡±


    The voice that sounded annoyed and demanding could be heard in the background. Along with the sound of heels hitting the restaurant floor with a loud clomp. A sign that the owner of the step was enveloped in great irritation.


    Andrew only nced to make sure it was the same girl, and once they were side by side at the edge of the lobby, Andrew sighed softly. ¡°You didn¡¯t finish your dinner.¡±


    ¡°Are you worried about me?¡± asked Fania with a sadugh. ¡°Think for yourself, you uncooperative master.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure, the two of us will be further pressured.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s words made him sigh. The eyes that were originally staring at one car after another that passed by, he chose to examine the toe of the shoe. It seemed useless but at least, it could make him reflect for a moment.


    ¡°I feel like spending the night at Sean¡¯s house,¡± she said softly.


    ¡°Just do it.¡± Andrew chuckled. ¡°Should I take a picture of your room with your heels on?¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Fania chuckled. ¡°We¡¯ll never get out of this marriage trap.¡±


    Andrew agreed to the truth of Fania¡¯s words just now, his head immediately calcting all the ns and what he could do to avoid their parents¡¯ ridiculous wishes.


    ¡°Has your father never experienced the beauty of love?¡± asked Fania quietly, which made Andrew nce at the girl who was still engrossed in the crowd across the street in front of them.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I never asked.¡±


    Fania chuckled. ¡°Actually, we were raised the same way. Our parents are busy without knowing, we need their affection more. They can go to meetings and spend more time with other people.¡±


    ¡°Those other people provide many advantages, Fania, in case you¡¯ve forgotten,¡± Andrew replied with a frivolousugh. He didn¡¯t. Andrew wasn¡¯t belittling Fania¡¯s little heartbreak. But the remark was in keeping with what was happening in her life.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Fania sighed softly. she looked up at the darkening sky. ¡°We¡¯re not the ones who gave them the advantage. This is the first time we¡¯ve been used to make a profit.¡±


    They were silent for a while until Fania spoke up again.


    ¡°I want to break the chain like that, Andrew. Can you?¡±


    ¡°It should be possible. I never imagined in my life that I¡¯d have to marry you.¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°Agreed.¡±


    In the end, theyughed. Laughing at the fate that encircled their lives and none of them wanted to face those bonds.


    ¡°I need a little more time to get loose. Are you alone?¡±


    Fania shrugged. ¡°The most pleasant option; having a child with Sean. I¡¯m sure, no matter how hard Mommy looks at Sean, if she sees my son and Sean, she¡¯ll melt too.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°But whatever you choose, I¡¯ll support you. Call me if you need my help, Fania.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to think about that. What we should think about is the damn wedding day that they must have arranged without our consent.¡±

 [54]

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe we ended up here,¡± Giselle says with augh. The atmosphere of the cafe, which she describes as serene, is set to jazz music. There aren¡¯t many visitors, either because the location is a bit hidden, or because the cafe offers a private space. I don¡¯t know. What is clear is that Giselle enjoyed her time here.


    ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind.¡± Andrew smiled widely.


    ¡°How could I object?¡± Giselle still maintained herughter. The dish in front of her also made her eyes sparkle with happiness. Especially with the dish that had just been ced on her table. Choctte Croquembouche, which was the cafe¡¯s favorite. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to eat this snack.¡±


    ¡°Eat it. I hope you like it.¡± Andrew chose to savor his coffee cup. Not just savoring, but distracting himself from constantly staring at the girl. Not to make Giselle ufortable while spending time with her this time.


    Andrew was sure that their meeting now would be short-lived. And he wasn¡¯t going to waste any time.


    Maybe God was being kind to him. For what He inflicted on Andrew¡¯s rigid life and always full of rules, the man was met by a girl who made his spirit revive. although he did not know the end of his feelings, he only relied on the desire to talk casually with the girl.


    Andrew recalled an incident that had identally crossed his life. At a time when he didn¡¯t feel like moving like a robot; getting into Fania¡¯s car and allowing her to drop him off. As a grown man who cared about women, shouldn¡¯t it be his job to drive Fania? But why was that not the case today.


    ¡°You¡¯re too much, sir,¡± Fania said with a huff but then opened the door for the man who was still loyally standing in the lobby. ¡°Just today I was kind enough to give you a ride over and over again.¡±


    ¡°Only twice if I count.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re like a poor guy riding in a girl¡¯s car.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m poor,¡± Andrew said simply. He sat downfortably and asked Fania not to talk to him. In fact, while in the lobby, they had unwittingly unloaded most of their burdens. They bothughed at how their lives existed in this world.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk to you either,¡± Fania said with a sardonic nce. Then she let out a long sigh and let her car waltz across the asphalt of Centralia Street. Her destination was clearly this ungrateful man¡¯s apartment. His smallest wish was to go home to his beloved, who had just told him that Sean was worried and waiting to hear from Fania.


    No one spoke afterward as if the thoughts that were running through their minds and heads were already very busy. There was no time to start a conversation, especially one rted to marriage. And at that moment, the girl who had been the center of Andrew¡¯s attention since they first met, came out of a shop. If you look closely, the shop mostly sells chocte snacks.


    ¡°Drop me off at the front,¡± Andrew said immediately, leaving the driver and Fania somewhat surprised.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Just get off.¡± Andrew prepared to open the car door and as soon as the car slowed down enough to stop, he got out in a hurry. ¡°Thanks for the ride. I¡¯ll definitely pay you backter.¡±


    Fania chuckled but was curious too, but she did not voice it. She preferred to respond to Anderw¡¯s words just now. ¡°I¡¯ll send you your delivery fare, sir. You should pay it immediately.¡±


    Andrew only responded with a thumbs up in agreement. He didn¡¯t say much or argue, which made Fania wonder what was making him behave so strangely. ¡°What¡¯s going on, anyway?¡±


    The man¡¯s steps were really fast heading in the direction they had just passed. When Fania realized what was happening, she could onlyugh. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with speaking frankly. I¡¯m not going to interrupt anyway.¡± She asked her driver to hurry up and head for home. Going home ahead of her mother was the right choice. Resting her tired body before facing another day that would leave her heart filled with aggravation.


    While Andrew, who was very sure of his vision of the girl, made enough distance so that the girl who seemed to be sparkling looking at her shopping bag, would not be surprised. but there was no way he wouldn¡¯t reprimand her, right? despite the appearance that Andrew thought was very different from when they met at the ministry building, but Andrew would not be mistaken.


    The girl had thick sses and a faded green hoodie loosely wrapped around her slender body.


    ¡°Evening, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my God.¡± Giselle blinked in surprise. She did not expect anyone to recognize her in a ce like this? She looked at the other person intently. Letting out a sigh of relief even though she could not take too casually the appearance of this man who seemed to be smiling in front of her. ¡°Andrew?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me. You think I¡¯m a ghost?¡±


    Giselle chuckled irritably. Her eyes quickly nced around and fixed her big sses. At least, the mini m appearance was a bit conspicuous but no one would know that Giselle was wandering around at night just for the sake of her exhausted chocte snacks.


    ¡°What are you doing in this area?¡± asked Giselle with a sigh of relief. There was nothing to be suspicious of, including the paparazzi. She didn¡¯t want to get into trouble when none of the news was pointing in a negative direction.


    ¡°identally passed by.¡± Andrew stepped closer. ¡°Are you alone?¡±


    Confidently, Giselle reveals her shopping bag. After all, Giselle can be sure that Andrew knows what she likes.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think to send you cookies right away.¡± Andrew looked regretful. He sent only two jars to taste first. He was afraid that they wouldn¡¯t suit Giselle¡¯s taste even though the chances of that were slim. Before the paper bag left with Andy passed to Giselle, Andrew had done his research.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He does intend to send it again but not anytime soon. Besides not knowing Giselle¡¯s schedule and activities, her concentration was also broken taking care of several things. He should have made it a special agenda so that she wouldn¡¯t have to go out looking for her own snacks.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Andrew said sincerely.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Giselleughed. ¡°Why apologize?¡± She looked at Andrew intently. ¡°I only bought a few. Brina would scold me if I bought too many.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask the chef to make one for you right away.¡±


    Giselle shook her head quickly. ¡°No need to bother like that, Andrew. I¡¯m not the problem.¡±


    Andrewa did not care. He still took out his cell phone to call someone, but his movements were halted by Giselle¡¯s question which immediately made his heart grow fonder. Perhaps if a mirror were to shine on his face right now, his nose would be ttened because Giselle¡¯s words werepletely unexpected.


    ¡°While you¡¯re busy with cookies, why don¡¯t you join me for a night out in Centralia? I don¡¯t think a hot chocte would be bad.¡±

 [55]

    Andrew got out of the taxi he had booked to take Giselle to her unit. They spent maybe an hour or two chatting with each other just to pass the time. And Andrew really didn¡¯t expect to get this kind of luck.


    ¡°Thank you for dropping me off,¡± Giselle said with a big smile. ¡°It was quite nice talking to you.¡±


    ¡°Mind if we talk that casually again? Another time?¡± Andrew asked hopefully.


    ¡°Um¡­ I think so.¡± Although she seemed hesitant but at least Giselle had voiced what came to mind. After all, this man in front of her was not a man who could roam freely. Perhaps it was a very rare coincidence, where they could meet in an unexpected ce.


    Plus spending time just talking carefree as if they had known each other for a long time. Indeed, if you think about it, Giselle had known Andrew since she worked at Jilly¡¯s club. But she only knew him through her eyes, never really like what they missed earlier.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you don¡¯t mind.¡± Andrew let out a sigh of relief. ¡°I¡¯ll let you know if my schedule is free and I hope you can fit it in.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Giselle smiled slightly. ¡°I guess we part ways here and once again, thank you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever be shy. I¡¯m happy to talk to you, to feel one step closer to the girl I admire.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyeballs rolled in annoyance. ¡°Never mind, tone down your sweet mouth. I have more than enough chocte in my life. I don¡¯t need sweet talk like that.¡±


    Andrewughed. ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with the word effort.¡±


    ¡°Whatever.¡± Giselle wagged her finger lightly. ¡°I¡¯ll go in first.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Andrew let her walk away happily with her hands full of paper bags that he knew what was in them. A promise to send her cookies every so often that Giselle thought tasted so good. And a long talk about Brina, the annoying assistant who Andrew believes wholeheartedly cares for Giselle with all her soul.


    Her back disappeared as he stepped into the corridor where the elevator would take him to the floor he was on. And yet Andrew forgot the conversation that had taken ce between them, which made his smile never fade.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect the boss of The Coge toe to an event like this,¡± she said as she chewed her dish with sparkling eyes. ¡°Gosh, this Croquembouche is so soft.¡±


    ¡°If you like it, you can order a takeaway.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Giselle shook her head immediately. ¡°Brina often monitors what¡¯s in my storage closet.¡± She also chuckled. ¡°You know, even your shipments really go through a rigorous selection.¡±


    Andrewughed.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t believe how creepy Brina is when ites to food.¡±


    ¡°But everything has a result that you can get, right?¡±


    Without hesitation, Giselle nodded because what Andrew had just said was true. She took a sip of her hot chocte. ¡°It¡¯s just that the chocte can ease the stress levels that suddenlye up. You know how chocte affects the brain, right?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a sweet tooth.¡± Andrew just chuckled.


    ¡°What do you do when stress strikes?¡± Giselle looked at her interlocutor intently. ¡°It¡¯s a lie that a CEO of The Coge doesn¡¯t have a lot of pressure.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± He put back the coffee cup that Andrew had just sipped from. The bitter and sweet taste of coffee was simr to his life but this time, it was many times sweeter. Giselle had taken off her big sses earlier. Her long hair was tied up so that many of her hairs fell around her face. Andrew wanted to tidy it up but he knew his limits.


    Giselle is not a girl he can just touch.


    ¡°Being apany leader is not easy. It¡¯s not just the shareholders that often give me a headache, but it¡¯s also a job that is full of risks and has a side that is, I admit, creepy.¡±


    The girl nodded as if she understood.


    ¡°There are things that can be told publicly and I will benefit greatly. There are also things that I have to guard carefully so that they don¡¯t leak out because of the cooperation between us. And yes¡­ you are one of the entertainment actors. I¡¯m sure you know how news travels to make people famous or miserable because digital footprints can¡¯t be easily erased.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Giselle stirred the hot chocte slightly.


    ¡°But you can rest easy. I don¡¯t intend to make you depressed because of the past. I promised you, right?¡± Andrew smiled in an attempt to dispel the worry created on Giselle¡¯s face.


    ¡°I know,¡± Giselle replied with a smile that Andrew thought was the sweetest smile in the world. He doesn¡¯t get tired of Giselle doing the same thing over and over again. For some reason, Giselle¡¯s smile this time made Andrew feel like he had a big hand in keeping it from disappearing.


    ¡°I¡¯ll honor your promise to you, Andrew. I really don¡¯t want to remember the past.¡±


    ¡°Trust me on that,¡± Andrew said, patting his chest lightly. ¡°A man is responsible for every word he says, let alone his promises.¡±


    Giselleughed. ¡°By the way, I¡¯m reminded of your message this afternoon. Are you rambling?¡±


    Andrew¡¯s brow furrowed but then chuckled. ¡°Where¡¯s the rambling? I really wanted to talk after the interview. It¡¯s a rxed atmosphere but it seems like God knows how to grant His people¡¯s greatest wishes, huh.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°The interview is in two weeks after the Monochrome design is finished. Justin will be very busy during that time.¡± Unconsciously, Giselle sighed. Her interest in the delicious snack in front of her had diminished considerably.


    ¡°I heard that this show is highly anticipated by many people. You know, there are a lot of businessmen like Justin and most of them want a new buzz. Not just a design carried by a famous model. But a design that can be remembered for all time.¡±


    ¡°I knew it. Justin definitely won¡¯t forget the most important part of his design.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t quite understand what Justin needs, but obviously, I can make the news about Monochrome much bigger thanst year. Justin specifically asked that this year, there should be a lot of SEO news.¡±


    Giselle smiled cheerfully. ¡°I¡¯m sure Justin will be happy.¡±


    ¡°You must be involved with Monocrhome, right?¡±


    Giselle shook her head quickly. ¡°Every year, the n that Justin has always has a certain characteristic. For what I¡¯ve brought, that¡¯s what continues to stick with me as an SEO model. It¡¯s like a branding for a certain image that Justin has created and designed for me. With many considerations in ordance with the progress of fashion that continues to rise in this country.¡±


    Andrew was silent. ¡°So¡­ you¡¯re not the main star anymore?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Giselle replied carefree. ¡°This year is Harvey¡¯s year.¡±


    ¡°No wonder.¡± Andrew rubbed the tip of his chin lightly. ¡°But you don¡¯t mind, you know¡­ jealousy of new models joining?¡±


    Giselle evenughed at Andrew¡¯s question just now. her eyes narrowed as she was swallowed by her ownughter. until Giselle felt, the corners of her eyes were wet.


    Which Andrew enjoyed very much, theughter that Giselle created just now. when we first met in front of the outlet, Andrew felt that there was a burden hanging over this beautiful model. whatever it was, Andrew couldn¡¯t freely ask. He didn¡¯t want his approach to Giselle to seem rushed and make her run away without thinking if the feelings he had were serious and earnest. But as the conversation went on, Giselle¡¯s smile returned and grew wider. At the very least, Andrew was able to make Giselle forget her sadness.


    Although he was very curious, what kind of sadness was the girl in?


    ¡°I like Harvey as a friend. You know, having friends who are on the same frequency as me is difficult. Most want to be close to me and have a purpose. Whereas with Harvey? I don¡¯t feel that.¡±


    Andrew agrees. ¡°I feel it too. Your friendship is well-established and full of warmth.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ you outsiders can judge, right?¡± Giselleughed cheerfully, while pping her hands. ¡°I don¡¯t have the kind of jealousy you¡¯re worried about, Andrew. I¡¯m even happy if Harvey can reach the same peak as me.¡±


    The man was increasingly convinced ¡­ his feelings for Giselle, which were initially formed from ordinary liking, became admiration with a simple but meaningful thought. God, please allow me to continue to be near Giselle. Strengthen my feelings for her. And also allow that in the future, her heart will be filled with my name. He muttered to himself.


    The cell phone in the pocket of his zer rang loudly, making all the sweet and memorable moments in Andrew¡¯s life fade away, reced with a frown and a grunt of annoyance at the name on the screen.


    Old man.


    ¡°Yes, Pa?¡±

 [56]

    Brina was used to arriving early in the morning before Giselle woke up. Moreover, she had heard that after the seminar at the Ministry of Culture, Giselle had stopped by Harvey¡¯s unit to help the girl with her shopping. The good thing was that Giselle wasn¡¯t staying there overnight. That was because there was a schedule that Giselle couldn¡¯t miss.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Her personal care. Even that matter must be supervised by Brina because Giselle is a little careless, especially with her hair. Even though Giselle¡¯s hair was once named the most beautiful hair that the Centralia model had. Especially now that Giselle¡¯s beautiful hair is slightly given a touch of color different from the original.


    The girl had already arrived in front of Giselle¡¯s unit, preparing to enter the password she knew off by heart. However¡­


    ¡°Oh my, you startled me!¡± Giselle opened her door with a wide-eyed look because she was not prepared to have Brina in front of her unit. ¡°You didn¡¯t give me any news when you got here.¡± She folded her arms across her chest.


    Brina rolled her eyes in annoyance. ¡°You usually wake upte, too. What made you wake up this early?¡± She slightly pushed Giselle back into her unit. Her heart rm told her there was something Giselle was hiding. But what? He had to check it out in person.


    ¡°I have to get off immediately!¡± Giselle tapped her forehead quite hard. She let Brina go inside and left her with an astonished look.


    ¡°What are you doing downstairs, Giselle?¡±


    But the girl didn¡¯t listen to Brina¡¯s screams. Which made Brina really curious, what exactly happened. She nced around Giselle¡¯s unit which was still the same as thest time she left. There were only a few paper bags lying around on the dining table. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± asked Brina curiously.


    When Brina peeked at what was inside, she chuckled. ¡°Giselle!!!¡±


    Meanwhile, Giselle, who was half-running to the receptionist, arrived at the ce where the courier was waiting for her. Giselle didn¡¯t want to put the courier out of work by delivering the order for her.


    ¡°From Hainan Restaurant?¡± asked Giselle to confirm.


    Where the courier was stunned by the figure who approached him this morning. did not expect that this morning¡¯s delivery was for a model whose name was popr in many circles, including men like him. He did not blink at Giselle who still maintained her smile.


    ¡°Um¡­ I was right, wasn¡¯t I? You¡¯re the delivery guy from Hainan Restaurant?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Miss.¡± The courier blinked excitedly. His hands trembled slightly as he took out the contents of the package. ¡°Ouch¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no rush.¡± Giselle chuckled.


    ¡°I was really lucky to meet Miss Giselle this morning.¡±


    ¡°May you always have good luck after this, huh.¡± Giselle received the package in the form of a specially ordered breakfast with a unique ce. Not to forget the tip that she had prepared for the courier. Although she refused many times, Giselle insisted on receiving it. ¡°When else will you get a gift from me, right?¡±


    Finally, the courier gave up. He couldn¡¯t stop his eyes from staring at the money Giselle had given him and the girl who was moving away. Feeling that her order was in hand, what else was keeping Giselle in the lobby?


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask us to deliver your order, Miss?¡± one of the apartment attendants reprimanded Giselle for going downstairs to get her order herself. That was something Giselle rarely did.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Giselle smiled cheerfully. ¡°I want to do it.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± The officer was stunned by Giselle¡¯s angelic beauty and smile. Even in her Minnie Mouse nightwear, Giselle looked adorable. Meanwhile, Giselle continued to walk until she arrived at her own unit, where the door was wide open, and Brina was seen tidying up something.


    For some reason, a bad feeling arose.


    ¡°Um¡­ there¡¯s no need for you to tidy up that paper bag actually, Brina.¡±


    Brina¡¯s eyes immediately gave her a knife-sharp gaze. Probing and calcting. ¡°Andrew sent it again?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Giselle replied hurriedly. ¡°I need to reduce my stress levels anyway, Brina.¡±


    Brina¡¯s eyeballs rolled in annoyance. ¡°What¡¯s going on that you¡¯re so stressed out? You haven¡¯t had a busy schedule except forst week, and I guess you¡¯re spending the next two weeks in Centralia, right?¡±


    Giselle could only grimace slightly. Justifying Brina¡¯s words just now but she remembered what was in her hand right now. ¡°Instead of you getting angry, how about having breakfast together?¡± The girl stepped into the kitchen. Picking up cutlery and drinking utensils so that they would have no trouble while eating breakfast this morning.


    ¡°After breakfast, you should move around a lot. Don¡¯t let the fat from the chocte sit on your body for too long, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t eaten it yet, Brina,¡± Giselle said defensively. ¡°You see, there are no chocte wrappers scattered around. That means I haven¡¯t eaten what was in that paper bag.¡± She grumbled with displeasure.


    ¡°I believe.¡± Brina smiled meaningfully. Sitting beside the model under her supervision. Then looked at Giselle with a slight lean. making Giselle lean back and look at Brina calctingly. ¡°Butst night, I¡¯m sure you ate a lot of chocte treats. Even the hot chocte was consumed again.¡±


    Basically, Giselle is not good at lying. Especially in front of a figure who is close to her lifetely. which she believes has no bad intentions at all. Giselle¡¯s closest confidante and friend during her many activities in SEO. Who never gets tired of supporting, reminding, and the most exciting debate friend Giselle has.


    Even without Giselle to answer, Brina already knew the answer. All she could do now was let out a long sigh. Patting her forehead lightly. ¡°You are this.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re teasing me, Brina. I can¡¯t stand the teasing.¡±


    ¡°If you gain two pounds, I¡¯ll be affected too. You know, right, Justin¡¯s eyes can¡¯t be fooled?¡±


    Giselle frowned. ¡°Last night was thest time. For the contents of the paper bag¡­¡± She gazed wistfully at all the chocte treats she loved. ¡°You can arrange when I can eat them.¡±


    ¡°So much the better.¡± Brina chuckled. ¡°And¡­ what did you bring for breakfast? Is this what you picked up from downstairs?¡±


    ¡°Yaps!¡± Giselle perked up again.


    ¡°I came early to make you toast with honey. But it seems, this breakfast is good too. The aroma smells delicious.¡±


    Giselleughed. ¡°It¡¯s a good thing I said for two servings. Otherwise, you¡¯d only see me enjoying this delicious breakfast.¡±


    ¡°Who was kind enough to send you this food?¡± Brina helped Giselle open the package containing the still-warm food. ¡°I can¡¯t believe someone would go to such trouble for Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Giselle pouted again.


    ¡°And because of this, you got up early?¡±


    ¡°Not really,¡± Giselle said just before taking out her lunchbox. The tantalizing aroma of chicken curry with gravy had her drooling. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to try it.¡±


    ¡°After eating all this, tell me about it because what you did this morning was out of the ordinary.¡±


    Giselleughed. ¡°But it makes your work light, right?¡±


    Brina chuckled.


    ¡°I need to replenish a lot of energy because you¡¯re going to drain me in a while.¡± Giselle took her share. Low-calorie brown rice with bean soup, topped with grilled meat marinated in savory spices. It wasn¡¯t much of a portion but it was enough to keep Giselle energized.


    Impatient, he took a big bite. Feeling the deliciousness of this restaurant, which is partly made up of Asian specialties. ¡°Oh, my God. This is so good.¡± Giselle closed her eyes. ¡°It¡¯s true what Andrew said. Hainan¡¯s breakfast menu is a winner.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ Giselle,¡± Brina said which made Giselle slightly stop her mouthful.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Brina handed her a red card and when she opened it, a message was written on it.


    I hope you like it.


    We have the same breakfast menu even though we don¡¯t eat it at the same table.


    Have a good day, Giselle.


    __AK

 [57]

    Not much has changed in all of Giselle¡¯s activities. She is very busy at times, especially when working under popr brands. Most of them want an impact that matches Giselle¡¯s fame in the public domain. This includes her busy schedule helping Harvey and Justin prepare for Monochrome even though they don¡¯t see eye to eye. There are many things that she can do whilepleting her schedule. Even so, Giselle misses her best friend quite a bit.


    ¡°In two hours, The Coge ising for an interview,¡± Irena informed him as she brought some files for Justin to check. His boss was really busy eating a lot of reports and a few times, his temper got out of control. It was only natural that Justin would get a little provoked by some things that were quite trivial but if ignored, could cause quite a big problem.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    One of them was the rumor of Harvey¡¯s presence in the SEO space. But thanks to Justin¡¯s ingenuity and a few favors that couldn¡¯t be taken for granted, all the problems were solved. And Harvey was quite cooperative throughout the preparations.


    Giselle, who had been sifting through the shipment of local brands, stopped her movements. ¡°Harvey is still on his way here, right?¡± she asked with bright eyes. It had been almost two weeks since she had seen Harvey due to his busy schedule. Theirmunication was only through chat or phone calls, but when it came to the rehearsal and some deliberations about the dress model Justin had made, they could have a lively conversation. Several times he also gave Justin input, especially on the cut of the dress that was currently circting in themunity.


    Giselle can¡¯t deny that Justin¡¯s designs are unique and have their own characteristics. But as a business person who wants to continue to be loved by his fans, it is necessary to touch on what is being loved by the widermunity.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Irenaughed but then sighed softly. ¡°Can you guys please not make a scene?¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m a child?¡± asked Giselle with a frown on her face. ¡°Where¡¯s Brina? I haven¡¯t seen her since I came here.¡±


    ¡°She was talking to Nico about Harvey¡¯s training.¡± Irena sat next to Giselle. Observing the girl who seemed to be ignoring the delivery for her. ¡°Didn¡¯t you promote this product a while ago?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Giselleughed cheerfully. ¡°Shusui Make up¡¯s Marketing Manager called me personally. Thanked me profusely because the promotion really worked. Their sales went up thousands of percent.¡±


    ¡°Thank goodness.¡± Irena smiled sincerely. She was happy for the achievements Giselle had made in her work. As a powerful influencer, Giselle¡¯s name was widely considered for cooperation offers. The more offers that came in, the more revenue that came in for SEO. ¡°And this is a gift from them to you?¡±


    ¡°There are some new products. Since I¡¯m still under contract, I still have to promote them, right?¡±


    Irena nodded in understanding. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll see Justin first. If you have trouble thinking of a promotion concept, Hans will always help you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s clear.¡± Giselle gave a thumbs up. Letting Irena leave her who was still faithfully waiting for Harvey¡¯s arrival. There was so much she wanted to talk about because having a friend as fun as Harvey, there was no such thing as a dull conversation.


    Meanwhile in the meeting room, Justin was still tweaking some of the pieces after getting feedback that he could ept. he also felt that there was something missing in Monochrome in the final design. Justin was slightly distracted by a knock on the door and when Irena appeared, he could breathe a sigh of relief.


    ¡°How¡¯s the media going out there?¡± asked Justin without looking back at his assistant. His hands were already busy refining the design before asking for it to be turned into reality.


    ¡°I think Mr. Andrew¡¯s influence is really amazing. no media dares to show gossip about Harvey anymore.¡±


    Justin gave a small grin in response. ¡°Good.¡±


    ¡°Regarding the show that will be held in one month, both the venue, invited guests, what events will be held, and some special invited guests have confirmed their willingness to attend the event. The production of some of the best-selling dresses has been doubled to avoid a backlog of orders.¡±


    Justin nodded in understanding at what Irena reported.


    ¡°Harvey¡¯s training was also without problems. Since he was involved in modeling before, it was not difficult to get him used to the SEO atmosphere.¡±


    ¡°Maya¡¯s agency is still acting up?¡± Justin put down his pencil. He was very satisfied with the result. ¡°Take this sketch to production. They already know where to make improvements.¡±


    ¡°Okay, boss,¡± said Hans, who had been in Justin¡¯s meeting room. Some notes were scattered on the table in the center of the room, but it didn¡¯t matter. Hans would continue with the rest of his work in a moment. He prioritized his business with the production department. After all, he only gave Justin the sketch sheet.


    The production team was extremely busy for the big night. Justin didn¡¯t want any extra problems during the making of his masterpiece. He often intervened, but there were some parts that were reserved for his production assistants.


    ¡°Nothing. Harvey neverined about the disturbance in his apartment.¡±


    Justin sighed softly. ¡°Harvey is different from Giselle, Irena. Giselle wouldn¡¯t hesitate to tell me anything. Not Harvey. He neverins about the distractions thate his way.¡±


    Irena¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to make sure myself.¡± She prepared to contact the apartment where Harvey lived.


    ¡°Make sure that girl doesn¡¯t know what you can do, Irena. Harvey¡¯s head is as hard as a rock but he¡¯s the best fit for what I want.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s done.¡± Irenaughed. ¡°By the way, have you been busy working? Didn¡¯t you say hello to Giselle at all?¡±


    Justin was silent.


    ¡°Seeing her enjoying herself without bothering you amazes me. Is Giselle really being possessed by a ghost, or has her mind matured a bit?¡±


    Justin chuckled. ¡°No, he doesn¡¯t. He just knows when to bother me at the right time. Not at a time like this.¡±


    ¡°Yes-yes-yes.¡± Irena shrugged. ¡°You do know what Giselle is like best.¡±


    Irena¡¯s words just now made Justin stare intently at his assistant. Which made Irena look surprised and stare back at her boss no less intently. ¡°You¡­ what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    The man shook his head immediately. ¡°Go on. Do your part.¡± He tidied up his drawing tools. ¡°Please call Giselle to this room.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Irena rushed out of Justin¡¯s room.


    Meanwhile, Giselle was still engrossed in the products that she wouldter promote on her social media pages, as well as some special promotional ount posts managed by SEO. She arrived three hours earlier than the appointed time. Not only was she looking forward to meeting Harvey, but she also wanted to meet Justin and talk. When he arrived earlier, they had exchanged news and chatted about Monochrome.


    But afterward, Giselle was left alone. She realized that Justin was a busy man. But still¡­ she missed him.


    ¡°Giselle,¡± Irena called, smiling broadly.


    ¡°It¡¯s like you just won the lottery.¡± Giselle spluttered. ¡°The stuff in the box, I¡¯m still using. The rest is for you. There are still many simr products that I haven¡¯t used at all.¡±


    ¡°Are you serious?¡± asked Irena with sparkling eyes. The Shusui brand is indeed famous for its efficacy in their cosmetic ingredients. Not to mention, the Shusui name soon became famous in addition to attracting big influencers like Giselle, the prices they offered were rtively low.


    As we all know, you want good quality at the lowest possible price, and Shusui delivers both. It¡¯s no wonder that the brnad immediately garnered great attention from the fairer sex in the country.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Giselle chuckled. ¡°By the way, what did you call me?¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Irena tapped her forehead lightly. ¡°You called Justin into his office.¡±


    Giselle got up immediately. She walked rather quickly to the room where Justin was working. There was no need to wait for Irena, who was now rather busy lifting the things Giselle had given her.


    ¡°You were looking for me?¡± she asked Giselle with a look of excitement. Her hand pushed quickly at Justin¡¯s ss-fronted door. Where the man seemed to be rxing, sitting back with a cigarette between his fingers.


    ¡°How was your day in Long Ind? Was it fun?¡±


    ¡°A little,¡± Giselle said with a frown. ¡°People have been asking about your whereabouts, especially during the banquet with Vans Corp. You know, Mr. Donovan doesn¡¯t let me off easy.¡±


    Justinughed. ¡°At least, because of Donovan we have a ce that suits my needs.¡± He leaned toward Giselle. Stroking the top of her head gently. ¡°Thank you, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°I want the fee,¡± Giselle interrupted quickly.


    ¡°Pay?¡±


    ¡°Nothing is free when ites to me.¡±


    That immediately got augh from Justin. But soon, after managing to control hisughter, Justin said, ¡°What are you asking for?¡±


    ¡°Date me after the show. It¡¯s been a while since we¡¯ve enjoyed time together.¡±


    Justin blinked slowly but then, smiling slightly, nodded. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll do it for you this time.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°When did I lie to you?¡±

 [58]

    ¡°You look fine,¡± Andrew said as he held out a bottle of mineral water that he had unscrewed. The interview with The Coge involving SEO¡¯s newest model; Harvey Princessa along with Giselle as a special guest was well organized. most of the talk in the interview was about their achievements and the work they have done during their time in the modeling world.


    Not too much about the personal lives of the two beautiful models who seem to get along well both in front of the camera and behind the camera. The warm atmosphere and friendship between the two of them made the interview that Andrew¡¯s team conducted run very smoothly.


    After the interview, there was some free time to take advantage of. Which is where Harvey is immediately pulled by Justin to try on the dresses that are almost finished. There was not just one, but five or six models that Harvey had to try on. Meanwhile, everyone else was soon busy with their own work.


    This left Giselle to talk to Hans about the concept of hertest promotion. Since the Shusui brand left the promo materials to Giselle and the team, she had to think about it too. Don¡¯t make Hans too much trouble because there¡¯s a lot for the slightly chubby man to take care of. Also Andrew who seemed to be talking quite busy on the phone before finally asking The Coge team to go home first.


    ¡°You want me to get sick, huh?¡± asked Giselle with an unhappy look. Even so, Giselle still epted Andrew¡¯s mineral bottle. She also thanked him for making it easier for her to drink immediately. Not bad for quenching the thirst that had been guing her.


    They chose to sit on one of the chairs in the garden outside the SEO building. As long as Giselle remembered the expansion of the building, it never crossed her mind that Justin would create a garden with such a coolndscape that could relieve her fatigue. Perhaps that¡¯s why Justin created this beautiful garden.


    ¡°No.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°I¡¯m d to see you happy andughing a lot. It means you have nothing to worry about in terms of your work and daily life, right?¡±


    Giselle turned to the man beside her. Ever since his arrival, Giselle had somehow felt that there was something different about Andrew¡¯s demeanor. Even now, where she could clearly see the all-too-real sadness in the man¡¯s eyes. As if the words symbolized him being¡­ sad?


    ¡°I actually have a lot to worry about.¡± Giselle chuckled. She no longer looked at Andrew, preferring to follow where he was looking. At the beautifully manicured garden with many flowers beginning to bloom. ¡°I¡¯m afraid my work doesn¡¯t satisfy some people. They only praise me when I¡¯m in front of them, but once I return to my original routine, they start talking about me. It¡¯s as if they¡¯re not satisfied with what I¡¯ve done.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    ¡°You can¡¯t satisfy that many people with what you can, Giselle,¡± Andrew said with augh. ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t think of something like that.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s not the only thing I¡¯m thinking about. How will the contract work continue, what can I do to survive in this ce that I find foreign. Even after all this time, I still feel foreign.¡±


    Andrew took a quick nce and nodded in understanding. ¡°At least you can socialize very well. I admire your determination.¡±


    ¡°You praise me as if I were wless,¡± Giselle looked up slightly, enjoying the sunlight that was blocked by the lush leaves. It shaded their seats so that it was not too hot but cool and the breeze that blew, was truly lulling. ¡°You know how I was before.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m saying, I admire your determination. Keep going and improve yourself to be better.¡±


    Giselleughed again. ¡°You¡¯re really good at using your mouth to say sweet things.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it that way,¡± Andrew said with a chuckle. ¡°It was just honesty.¡±


    ¡°Never mind, hearing you say things like that often makes me forget where I¡¯m from.¡± Giselle smiled sadly. ¡°I still haven¡¯t forgotten my original intention of approaching even though I¡¯m trying to forget. Because the more I know about how you behave, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re not ying around with your words.¡±


    ¡°Thank goodness I at least got your confession.¡± Andrew chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m really d to hear that.¡±


    For some reason, hearing Andrew¡¯sughter this time relieved Giselle a little. It was as if theughter also represented something that relieved her of pressure. And Giselle was happy about that. At least, there was something she could do just tofort Andrew.


    No, she didn¡¯t. What Giselle did was simply to repay Andrew¡¯s kindness. She was in a bad mood during the work Giselle was doing, and then the jar of choctes Andrew sent her rejuvenated her. No matter how many pouts and scornful looks she got from her models or work partners, as long as she did the rest of the work well and the results were satisfactory, that was more than enough.


    And the chocte jar Andrew had given her was the ultimate savior and one thing that Giselle was happy about; Brina couldn¡¯t help but notice that the calorie count and sugar content in the jar was different from the snacks Giselle usually bought at her local grocery store. So the girl was free to eat all the cookies in the jar.


    Andrew¡¯s cell phone rang loudly enough to make Giselle unconsciously nce at the man. It looked like Andrew was in a hurry to pick up his cell phone. It didn¡¯t matter to Giselle if Andrew left her just to pick up the phone.


    She realized that Andrew and Justin were the same. they had a big responsibility to take care of and do it well. there were a lot of eyes on them, questioning all their decisions and results. At least, that was what Giselle thought of the man who looked great in his navy zer. Come to think of it, Andrew rarely wore clothes that looked random. All the colors he wore always looked just right and made him look quite charming.


    For some people, that would be a sudden thought thates to Giselle¡¯s mind. But for Giselle, a man like Andrew is nothing more than a pretty good coworker. That¡¯s it.


    Meanwhile, Andrew, who nced at who the caller was just now, only disyed a cold look. His face suddenly stiffened. The smile that was originally there to apany Giselle disappeared without a trace. He also turned off his cell phone immediately. he didn¡¯t want any other interruptions from anywhere. if there was an important work matter, Nindy would have told him.


    Besides there were some things that had to be discussed by the SEO party, being represented by Nindy was not a problem. Nindy has a work ethic that can keep up with how Andrew acts. Even before heading to the SEO building, they had a meeting with a client that was quite important for the sustainability of The Coge.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t pick up?¡± asked Giselle with a look of surprise. She inadvertently asked this of the man who looked upset.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that important.¡±


    Giselle chose to just nod. Trying to restrain herself from asking too many questions to people who are still strangers to her life.


    ¡°In the near future, do you have ns to go out of town again? A work session perhaps?¡±


    Giselle shook her head. ¡°Monochrome ising up soon. My schedule was switched for the month after the show. I also need to concentrate on the show this time. You know, a lot of people are expecting me to perform. That¡¯s why there was a session during Monochrome where Harvey performed, and I was in the middle of the fashion show.¡±


    Andrew nodded in understanding. ¡°The Coge will help with the problem of exclusive broadcasting. You will get ba -¡±


    ¡°Sir,¡± Nindy half ran to Andrem. Her breathing wasbored. Her face also looked flushed. In her hand was a cell phone held up. ¡°Sir, your father is in the office, he wants to see you immediately. Did you turn off the cell phone?¡±

 [59]

    Giselle put her phone back down rather rudely. She let out a long sigh and hurried to get ready. The event would start in three hours but she had to be in the hall specifically used for SEO models. There was a lot to prepare before the event. Moreover, this was the first time Harvey was officially introduced as part of SEO.


    Just like before, she felt nervous and worried. Afraid that all the preparations that have been made will fall apart and disappoint Justin. Harvey said the same thingst night where they spent time pouring out their worries and encouraging each other because they didn¡¯t want to disappoint Justin.


    ¡°I owe her a lot,¡± Harvey says with a chuckle. ¡°I don¡¯t want to do anything that will give her a headache.


    Giselle nodded in agreement. ¡°Just like you. But I¡¯ll always be by your side, Harvey. We¡¯ll face it together. You¡¯re more experienced than me anyway, right? Howe you¡¯re still nervous about the stage area?¡±


    Harvey chuckled at what Giselle had just said. He chose to get up, sitting down and hugging one of the bolsters in Giselle¡¯s room. They had been at the hotel since two days ago near the building where the show would be held. Harvey and Giselle took advantage of the opportunity to see the stage that they would conquer as the main model of SEO. Although Giselle¡¯s portion is not as much as Harvey¡¯s, but her appearance has been much awaited by fans and fashion observers who are invited guestster.


    ¡°SEO and Monochrome are different from anything I¡¯ve ever done. It was as if I was asked to immerse myself in this design that Justin gave me.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you¡¯re burdened?¡± asked Giselle, who followed Harvey¡¯s sitting position.


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡± His best friendughed. ¡°It¡¯s just that I want the best I can do for Justin. That¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Then we will try our best.¡±


    The conversation unintentionally yed back in Giselle¡¯s mind. But her eyes again nced at the cell phone that was still disying the same mode; ck. Without any message notifications. ¡°Never mind, why should I think about it?¡± She grinned faintly. Taking the clothes Brina had prepared for him. Trying to get rid of the thing that was actually annoying to ignore.


    The message from Andrew, as well as his attitude during theirst meeting.


    No, she didn¡¯t. Giselle didn¡¯t miss the messages that she found more seductive than anything else, though sometimes the messages Andrew slipped her sometimes got her a little excited. It¡¯s just¡­ it¡¯s been over a month. It was as if Andrew had just disappeared.


    Without any news.


    Although Hans and Justin still asionally mentioned The Coge as the main media to promote some SEO activities, it would still be strange if Giselle asked about Andrew¡¯s whereabouts.


    I don¡¯t know why her hand stretched out to retrieve the phone that was lying there. Andrew¡¯s conversation history with her was mostly one-sided. It was mostly Andrew who sent her messages. asionally, she could count on her fingers when Giselle needed to reply to a message from Andrew. It was replied to very quickly as if Giselle¡¯s reply was awaited.


    Her fingers were swiftly scrolling through their conversation.


    ¡°Sometimes this guy really doesn¡¯t look like he has much to do,¡± Giselle muttered as one of Andrew¡¯s messages caught her by surprise. It was sent at what she thought was peak working hours. ¡°Does he use timed messages?¡±


    Giselle chuckled to herself with her ridiculous thoughts. ¡°I guess he did take the time to send me a message.¡±


    Once again, her hand scrolled through the phone screen that was still disying the chat Andrew had sent. Oh, and one more thing, the collection of cards that were tucked into each meal Andrew sent, were carefully kept by Giselle. Why and why Giselle did this, she didn¡¯t know. It¡¯s just that she likes to umte cards with Andrew¡¯s messages on them.


    Andrew. K:


    The air in Centralia is quite cold. Don¡¯t get sick, Giselle. Even though you¡¯re in Yazeran, you still need to take care of your health. Did my chocte shipment arrive?


    For that message, Giselle did reply. And ended up asking Andrew for permission to talk over the phone. At that time, Giselle remembered that she wasn¡¯t too busy so she allowed it. It wasn¡¯t long, really, only about ten minutes and most of their conversation centered on the news of the Manchestter official corruption case that people were talking about. The corruption was also due to a third party involving a romantic rtionship that left many people shocked.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    That¡¯s all.


    Afterward, Giselle¡¯s days returned. And as was Andrew¡¯s habit of sending her messages day after day, without even needing a reply, he never tired of keeping in touch. Sometimes he would also inform Giselle about his busy schedule, which was indeed time-consuming.


    ¡°Is ¡­ Andrew sick?¡± asked Giselle with a curious look, her eyes not leaving the chat that was still open. On the contact, the word ¡®online¡¯ indicated that the man was using his cell phone. But why¡­


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± Giselle answered her own curiosity. Choosing to quickly exit the message history on her phone. Sighing softly while focusing on what she was going to do right now. ¡°He¡¯s busy. I guess a while ago, he didn¡¯t have any friends to bother. Incidentally, there¡¯s me who she knows how to approach.¡± Giselle grinned slightly. ¡°That¡¯s true, too. That¡¯s what happened to her. Now that she¡¯s found someone who can keep herpany, she won¡¯t bother me anymore.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s smile soon grew wider. Feeling happy that she had found the answer to what had happened to Andrew recently. If it was true what she had in mind, why wasn¡¯t Andrew honest? After all¡­ he would congratte her if she met a woman he could y with. Giselle also feels grateful that she didn¡¯t fall for the bait of a man like Andrew.


    ¡°Men everywhere are the same.¡± Giselle chuckled. ¡°Never mind, let¡¯s get ready.¡±


    She immediately put her cell phone back down. No longer thinking about Andrew which made her a bit uneasytely. Somewhat happy too with the thought that crossed her mind just now even though¡­ her smile was no longer as wide as usual. I don¡¯t know, it was like she had her own annoyance but didn¡¯t know how to vent it and who to vent it to.


    ¡°Giselle,¡± called Brina, who simply walked into the room Giselle was staying in. ¡°How much longer do I have to wait? Harvey is waiting for you in the back hall.¡±


    The girl who had juste out of the bathroom, could only let out a long sigh. But as soon as she saw the look on her face in the mirror on the sink, she immediately removed the strange expression on her face. don¡¯t let anyone know, what is happening to her. She immediately patted her cheeks lightly.


    Giselle immediately chuckled in response to Brina¡¯s words just now. ¡°I just finished my bath. Why do you sound so rushed?¡±


    Brina rolled her eyes in annoyance. ¡°This is you.¡± The assistant quickly picked up the clothes she had prepared earlier. ¡°You don¡¯t like what I picked out?¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°Since when did I refuse your choice? I¡¯m just reluctant to take a bath. The weather here is still toozy to face with much activity.¡±


    Brina clucked once more. ¡°Come on, we have to get ready. Justin is waiting for you.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Giselleughed.


    ¡°iya, you must be surprised at the news I heard among the models.¡±


    Giselle shook her head lightly. ¡°Mostly just cheap gossip.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t regret it if you find outter.¡± Brina folded her arms across her chest. Not wanting to wait for Giselle¡¯s response, she spoke again. ¡°Andrew ising with his fianc¨¦e.¡±

 [60]

    As expected, Harvey delivered Monochrome with aplomb. There were no obstacles, even Giselle felt that this was a spectacr performance. There were many surprises, especially in Harvey¡¯s appearance in the center of the stage. Just like when he appeared in Justin¡¯s trending master piece dress that year, Harvey did the same.


    Almost all the invited guests gave a rousing wee. As they gathered in the center of the stage after all the designs had been shown, Giselle was all smiles. Apanying Harvey who was the star of the evening.


    Is Giselle jealous?


    Absolutely not.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect it to be this big,¡± Harvey said as he entered the backstage area. In his hand was arge bouquet of flowers to thank him for participating in Justin¡¯s event. Just like Justin, who was holding an equallyrge bouquet.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see when Giselle showed upst year?¡± asked Justin as he handed the bouquet to the SEO staff. Some of the junior models who participated were very proud and happy. There was a twinkle on their faces that made Justin feel happy.


    ¡°I¡¯m just kidding, boss.¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°Why are you so sensitive? You should be happy, the event didn¡¯t have any problems.¡± Harvey moved closer to Justin. A little push on the shoulder of the now scowling man but then, a tight embrace on Harvey still fussing with his hairdo. ¡°Justin! Oh, my God! Stop it!¡±


    Justin doesn¡¯t care. Heughed uproariously followed by many models who chuckled at the behavior of the two of them. Just like Giselle, who pped excitedly and voiced her happiness because of the sess of this event.


    ¡°You guys should treat me to a nice dinner because this event is really great!¡±


    Giselle¡¯s shriek was immediately greeted by a verypact uproar from everyone there. They didn¡¯t care if their voices could be heard by the invited guests. Where they were certainly being asked toe to the area for the dinner hosted by SEO. As a form of gratitude for their time, Justin often uses it to forge new business ties. Usually it revolves around stacked orders and some modeling and promotional partnerships. Or endorsements with fantastic prices considering that the influencers the SEO has are not random names.


    ¡°You guys,¡± Justinughed, quickly letting go of the embrace with Harvey and ignoring the sardonic eyes the girl was giving him. He chose to approach Giselle, who was helping to make the event more lively and smooth. Justin spread his arms as wide as he could. ¡°For you, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°Do I have to?¡± She gave a little teasing wink. But still, being in Justin¡¯s arms was the best she had ever felt. Although he couldn¡¯t touch her heart, at least something like this was enough for Giselle to experience. ¡°Congrattions on Monochrome, Justin. You¡¯re great.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to join, Harvey?¡±


    Even with an annoyed whimper, Harvey still joined in the embrace that still had a gap there. ¡°Thank you for indulging my selfishness, Harvey.¡±


    The girlughed. ¡°At least your fee is tempting.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, you guys!¡± Giselleughed. ¡°All of you,¡± she said to the other SEO models. ¡°Come on, hug your annoying boss.¡±


    No one refused to do what Giselle told them to do. After all, when else would one get such a rare opportunity. In the midst of two models who werebeled as expensive senior models in SEO. Also receiving hospitality from the elusive Justin.


    ¡°You¡¯re like a ball ready to roll,¡± Irena said, shaking her head in surprise. She already had a tablet in her hand that contained many reports mainly rted to Monochrome.


    ¡°You¡¯re a bully who doesn¡¯t like our closeness,¡± Justin said, spluttering in disapproval. he began to unravel the hug. Asking the other models to quickly change and prepare to enjoy the meal. Almost all of them retreated, leaving only Harvey and Giselle still near Justin.


    ¡°If your interference makes my joyous heart any less joyful, I¡¯ll deduct your annual bonus, Irena,¡± Justin said as he straightened his shirt. The maroon shirt, which he had unbuttoned to the chest, had been sleeved to the elbows. It was a little messy but it didn¡¯t detract from Justin¡¯s good looks. Instead, he looked like a man who attracted a lot of attention from the many women around him.


    ¡°If the news I gave you makes your excitement rise a thousand percent, I¡¯m making my own calctions regarding the year-end bonus.¡±


    Justinughed.


    Meanwhile, Harvey invited Giselle to head to the banquet hall first. After asking Justin for permission, where they were both allowed but not to get too lost in the guests¡¯ chatter. Because after Justin¡¯s business with Irena is done, there will be an exclusive interview with the reporters especially about theunch of Monochrome. And that required Harvey to make a public appearance alongside Justin.


    ¡°Take it easy, Boss,¡± Harvey said with a bigugh. ¡°Come on, Giselle. Let¡¯s go hunting for food. You didn¡¯t have time to eat, did you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Giselle suddenly remembered thest time her stomach was filled with food. ¡°I feel like eating pasta. You?¡±


    ¡°I think the pasta is enough to silence my stomach that¡¯s been rumbling since earlier.¡±


    ¡°We no longer feel hungry until the event is over. I was the same way the first time. I didn¡¯t even have an appetite even though Brina forced me to.¡±


    Harvey spluttered. ¡°You can worry about the event, but don¡¯t ignore the fact that your body needs energy from food.¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°Lecture yourself, Harvey.¡± Giselle wrapped her arms around Harvey, not caring if his best friend growled. And red in disgust at Giselle¡¯s annoying attitude.


    ¡°I wonder if Maya came to see how you were doing in SEO?¡± asked Giselle with a giggle. ¡°As long as I find out with Brina, that annoying woman doesn¡¯t exist. just in case when you¡¯re on stage, Mayaes.¡±


    Harvey chuckled. He felt like pinching the waist of his best friend who kept teasing him. ¡°Instead of Mayaing, wouldn¡¯t it be more fun if Kristen came with Woddy?¡±


    ¡°Where?¡± asked Giselle with eyes sparkling in amazement. If what Harvey said just now is true, I don¡¯t know what would happen if the two of them were caught on camera. But¡­


    ¡°Twelve o¡¯clock. They are sitting with the other finalists.¡±


    ¡°Ah, not so exciting.¡±


    ¡°What did you expect anyway?¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°Wasn¡¯t it Justin who requested an exclusive screening with The Coge?¡±


    Giselle nodded in response.


    ¡°While we know how Woddy¡¯s rtionship with The Coge is.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Giselle sighed softly. ¡°If the news about them had been revealed, there would have been an uproar like that official.¡±


    Harveyughed. ¡°You follow the news?¡±


    ¡°Andrew told me. So we sometimes talk about the official and his mistress.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Harvey stopped his steps. ¡°You¡¯re really close to Andrew?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°But sharing gossip?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, Harvey,¡± Giselle said with a long sigh. At the same time, Giselle¡¯s eyes were fixed on one figure.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that¡­ Andrew?¡± Harvey blinked in disbelief. ¡°Ah, with his sweet fianc¨¦e apparently.¡±


    ¡°Fianc¨¦e?¡± Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°Isn¡¯t the girl next to Andrew Fania?¡±


    ¡°Dorothy Fania Langham to be precise. Granddaughter of former Centralia¡¯s fifth president, Edgar Langham.¡±

 [61]

    Giselle let Harvey and Justin face the reporters. It was time for the press conference held by SEO as the organizer of the event. She chose to sit at the ce reserved for SEO models and began to enjoy the meal. It was true what Harvey said about food intake for their bodies. Don¡¯t let her drop at the wrong time. Brina had given an updated schedule after the sessful show.


    It¡¯s so busy that Giselle feels like she won¡¯t have time for herselfter. But no matter, there was still free time after this event. Which she would use to be with Justin, as he had promised.


    ¡°Maya is here,¡± Brina said as she took a seat next to Giselle. Her face looked displeased with the re directed at the woman she was talking about.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Giselle as she took a big bite of the sd on her te.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know how Harvey got into SEO? Even though it¡¯s rtively easy, Maya will always give Harvey a hard time.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°Justin would have taken care of it easily.¡±


    Brina sighed softly. ¡°When ites to a third person, it¡¯s not as easy to pressure someone like when Justin pressured Jilly, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s mouthful stopped slightly. She let out a long sigh before finally speaking. ¡°I¡¯m sure Harvey has a specific reason for doing such a thing. Although I¡¯ve only just gotten to know him, I have full confidence that Harvey acted using logic. There¡¯s something he¡¯s after that he has to pawn off his feelings.¡±


    Brina looked at Giselle with a look of disbelief. ¡°You¡­ sound mature, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯m a kid?¡± Giselle scowled. ¡°I know, we¡¯re far apart in age, but it¡¯s not impossible for me to think that maturely, right?¡±


    Brinaughed. ¡°Alright, I understand.¡± She rubbed Giselle¡¯s shoulder lightly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Giselle was still sulking.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any chocte to put you in a better mood.¡± Brina still maintained theughter on her lips. Seeing Giselle still sulking was a pleasure for her. ¡°Oiya, have you met Andrew?¡±


    At first, Giselle¡¯s face was sulking but there was still a smile on it. But when Brina mentioned Andrew¡¯s name casually, the smile disappeared. It was reced with an inexplicably t face. ¡°Not yet. I guess he¡¯s busy with his fianc¨¦e, right?¡±


    ¡°Fianc¨¦e?¡± asked Brina with a look of surprise. ¡°The girl with Andrew is his fianc¨¦e?¡±


    Giselle shrugged.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Harvey told me.¡± She went back to enjoying the sd still on her te. ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±


    Brina¡¯s eyes sought out the spot where the man named Andrew Kingston sat in one of the other corners. Beside him, sat an elegant-looking woman wearing a ck dres. The one Brina thought was an assistant or someone from The Coge who was asked to apany the man.


    ¡°But¡­ I¡¯m not familiar with that woman¡¯s face.¡± Brina rubbed the tip of her chin lightly. ¡°Who, huh?¡±


    ¡°Her name is Fania. She was a resource person when the Miss World finalists visited the Ministry of Arts and Culture. The owner of one of the most famous art galleries in Manhattan.¡±


    ¡°Ah, right.¡± Brina snapped her fingers. ¡°Fania Langham.¡± Then Brina¡¯s eyes seemed to look at Giselle with a slight squint of suspicion. ¡°But how did Harvey know that the two of them were engaged? There¡¯s no news of their engagement in the media. You know, Langham and Kingston are big names. There¡¯s no way an engagement ceremony wouldn¡¯t be publicized.¡±


    Brina¡¯s words left Giselle speechless. ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Her spoon fell back on her te. She finished her dinner, especially since her stomach had also been filled. ¡°But even if the news is true, I don¡¯t care. What business is it of mine?¡±


    ¡°Are you jealous?¡± guessed Brina casually.


    ¡°Think before you speak, Brina.¡± Giselle wiped the corner of her lips in case there was any sd dressing left. ¡°Can Ie back quickly?¡±


    Brina¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°You don¡¯t want to apany Harvey until the end of the program?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired.¡± Giselle prepared to leave Brina and return to the hotel. The fatigue that set in when work piled up was starting to eat away at her. Giselle often felt that way. while working, her stamina was always at its peak. Until the end of the show, she never looked tired. But once it was all over, she felt like her body was crumbling and she needed to sleep all day.


    That¡¯s what she felt again in the mini-m. She wanted to enjoy the night with Harvey and Justin. Celebrating the sess and how Monochrome was a smash hit caught the attention of many fashion observers. And Irena shared some equally astonishing news. Many of the products offered by SEO were sold out. Even the waiting list for certain designs almost equaled the record that Giselle set.


    No, he wasn¡¯t. He¡¯s not jealous. Instead, he was proud and happy to be a part of Monochrome and happy that Harvey could bring what Justin wanted to the world.


    ¡°Just tell them the celebration has been postponed to tomorrow. I don¡¯t want to miss it,¡± Giselle said with a big grin. ¡°I¡¯ll go home first.¡±


    ¡°Nico will apany you to the hotel lobby, Giselle.¡± Brina picked up her cell phone. She quickly contacted the person who would apany Giselle to the hotel safely. However¡­ ¡°I don¡¯t think you can leave right away,¡± Brina said in a whisper.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡± Giselle frowned in surprise. ¡°Justin¡¯s not done yet, is he?¡±


    Brina shook her head quickly. ¡°Andrew walked over.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyeballs rolled irritably. ¡°It doesn¡¯t necessarily lead here. After all, I¡¯m not the only one he wants to meet during this banquet, right?¡± She shifted her seat again. ¡°Give them all my regards. I¡¯ll wait for Nico in the lobby.¡±


    Brina couldn¡¯t hold Giselle back for too long. Brina quickly contacted Nico because Giselle would not break her will. Even so, her eyes were not released to continue paying attention to the man who looked dashing in his navy suit. Andrew¡¯s smile asionally appeared to greet several people rted to his business. Being involved in the entertainment world makes Brina understand that a banquet is not just an ordinary dinner event.


    Sometimes these banquets are created to meet each other and show influence in the world of economics and business. And the aim is to expand their influence with certain cooperation. And usually Brina and Giselle are at the center of the business banquet for SEO purposes. In a way, Giselle was the main instigator of clients approaching Justin and offering many contracts full of nominal benefits. And now, with the addition of Harvey.


    ¡°I¡¯ll bet Andrew came to this table,¡± Brina murmured. In front of her, the zuppa soup was untouched. Her hunger had been reced with satiety due to her extensive work tonight.


    ¡°Good evening,¡± Andrew said with a faint smile.


    Brina was right. Andrew must have gone to the table where Giselle was. But unfortunately, the girl chose to leave.


    ¡°Evening.¡± Brina responded with a friendly smile. ¡°I guess you¡¯re a littlete if you want to meet Giselle. The girl chose to go home. Probably exhausted.¡±


    ¡°Exhausted?¡± asked Andrew worriedly.


    ¡°Giselle¡¯s schedule in recent times has been rather draining. Don¡¯t you know that?¡±


    Brina¡¯s words were responded to with a soft chuckle. The face that originally looked upset vanished slowly and changed to a t mode. As if the worry should not exist. Her hand reached for something from one of her zers. ¡°Please tell Justin this too¡­¡± He closed his eyes for a moment. his other free hand was clenched tightly. ¡°Giselle.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    The frown on Brina¡¯s forehead grew. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± She was not blind to what was written on the elegant ck and red sheet. But¡­ didn¡¯t Brina know that the man in front of her had approached Giselle personally? And this invitation?

 [62]

    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t need me to apany you to your room?¡± asked Nico with a worried look. Brina¡¯s message had made him leave the banquet in a hurry. For Nico it didn¡¯t matter, but seeing Giselle who looked exhausted and her face not as cheerful as before, made Nico unable to leave the girl in the hotel lobby.


    ¡°I can do it myself,¡± Giselle said with augh. ¡°You go back, Nico. I¡¯m sorry for troubling you tonight.¡±


    Nico chuckled. He immediately approached Giselle and apanied her. His hand reached out without permission to touch Giselle¡¯s forehead. Making sure that what he was worried about didn¡¯t happen. But unfortunately, Giselle¡¯s body temperature was different. ¡°Do you have a fever?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Giselle gently brushed away Nico¡¯s hand that touched her forehead. Smiling faintly at the man she considered more than just a coworker. ¡°I can go to my room safely.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it,¡± Nico snorted with a displeased look. ¡°Come on, you need to rest soon. I¡¯ll have Brina catch up with you soon.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± Giselle quickly intervened. ¡°You can drop me off, but I don¡¯t want this to bother any of them, including Harvey and Justin.


    ¡°But, you¡¯re not in the mood-¡±


    ¡°You want to interrupt their celebration?¡± asked Giselle with a sharp look. ¡°I just need to rest quickly. I¡¯ll be back to full health by tomorrow morning.¡±


    Nico gave up. What Giselle had said did have some truth to it. At least the stubborn girl didn¡¯t ask him to leave immediately. At the very least, Nico made sure Giselle arrived at her room okay. Maybe if the event was a little more rxed, he would immediately tell Brina about Giselle¡¯s condition.


    No one spoke between them as the elevator led to the floor where Giselle was staying temporarily. Although Nico asionally nced at Giselle, the girl tried to keep a calm face. She didn¡¯t want to cause too much trouble on such an important day. Although Giselle did not understand why she could be this weak.


    Whereas for some time now, she had always been eager and also obeyed everything Brina said. Besides, in the past month, there had been no shipments from Andrew. No. oh¡­ gosh, Giselle didn¡¯t expect to get continuous deliveries from Andrew. She also understood that he was busy with his business. In fact, Giselle was grateful that the deliveries were starting to cease. Even though¡­


    ¡°Are they really engaged?¡± Giselle asked softly.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Nico gave her a questioning nce. The voice that came out of Giselle¡¯s mouth was so quiet that he could not hear it clearly, simr to the buzzing of bees. ¡°Are you talking, Giselle?¡±


    ¡°Ah?!¡± Giselle blinked excitedly. At the same time, the clinking of the elevator where their chosen destination floor was indicated by the screen above the metal box door. ¡°Here we are.¡±


    Nico looked at Giselle suspiciously but could do nothing but follow the girl out of the elevator. ¡°Are you sure you can leave me alone? I can wait for you in the lobby until Brinaes.¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Giselle quickly interrupted. ¡°I¡¯ve caused you too much trouble, Nico. Enjoy the party again.¡±


    Nico chuckled. ¡°I don¡¯t know why hearing your words this time feels strange. You¡¯re used to being annoying and chatty.¡± But his hand reached out to ruffle Giselle¡¯s loose hair. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t push myself anymore. get some rest. Maybe Brina will tell you to take your vitamins, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± She smiled slightly as she inserted the key slot. ¡°Thank you again.¡±


    Nico nodded quickly. After making sure Giselle went inside her room, closing the door with the sound of the door locking, he left. One message for Brina to speed up her business while at the banquet; to apany Giselle. Nico deliberately did not tell her about Giselle¡¯s condition, which he felt was exhausted. Hopefully, Giselle¡¯s condition would not worsen.


    Meanwhile, Giselle let out a long sigh. she still had to take off all the attributes attached to her body. Including the makeup which was quite thick but luckily, her hair was not worn with anything other than a semat with a beautiful pearl decoration in the center. She began to take off what she was wearing one by one. Until it felt much morefortable wearing cotton pajamas.


    ¡°I missed what should have been a fun night, huh,¡± she said quietly. she had her face free of makeup. Sitting at the dressing table where some of her personal geary. For some reason, the conversation with Harvey about Andrew and the girl beside him came back to her.


    I didn¡¯t want to remember it, but it had already passed by again.


    ¡°So¡­ Fania is the granddaughter of a former president?¡± Giselle¡¯s jaw almost dropped, gaping in disbelief, at her best friend who spoke so casually.


    ¡°I see.¡± Harvey grinned slightly. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect them to show up at an event like this.¡±


    ¡°But Andrew didn¡¯t say anything about his rtionship with Fania.¡± Giselle still couldn¡¯t believe her vision. But there, where Andrew and Fania were standing, it was clear that Andrew¡¯s attitude towards the girl Giselle recognized was friendly and passionate.


    It¡¯s a perfect match with Andrew who doesn¡¯t say much but is full of attention.


    No matter what, Giselle eventually admitted that Andrew is indeed a caring and soft-hearted figure. It¡¯s just that sometimes he¡¯s a little pushy and doesn¡¯t want to be outdone on some things. Maybe it¡¯s his innate attitude while working and leading arge internationalpany like The Coge.


    ¡°Might want to surprise you.¡± Harvey smiled slightly. ¡°That means the answer Andrew gave to my question is today.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± asked Giselle still with a questioning look. But she didn¡¯t resist when Harvey put his arm around her and directed their steps to the table that had been prepared.


    ¡°I told you that if Andrew is serious about approaching you, he should finish his business. And now, I know he¡¯s done his business today.¡±


    The more Giselle¡¯s head didn¡¯t understand Harvey¡¯s words. ¡°When did you talk?¡±


    ¡°Jesus this kid.¡± Harvey chuckled in annoyance. ¡°Never mind, it¡¯s no longer important. We¡¯d better eat and recharge before the real celebrationes. I need the energy to speak up and confront someone.¡±


    ¡°There are so many things I don¡¯t understand, Harvey.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you but not now.¡± Harvey gave Giselle an ignorant nce to which she responded with a huff.


    ¡°How mysterious,¡± Giselle grumbled, but she didn¡¯t resist when Harvey pulled out a chair for her. A waiter came to serve some dishes. But her eyes were still fixed on one point; Andrew. What was this all about?


    ¡°Tsk! Why am I thinking about things I shouldn¡¯t be thinking about?¡± Giselle tapped her forehead lightly. exhaled a long breath and began her bedtime facial session. She had also prepared some medicine to relieve the dizziness present in her head. In addition to needing a longer rest, she needed medicine so that the pain in her head could subside in the morning. She was determined not to trouble anyone during her stay in Long Ind.


    ¡°Should I ask Brina to bring me some hot chocte?¡± she murmured as she applied the night cream. Making sure no part of her face was missed. Until the buzzing of the cell phone lying nearby called for attention. An iing message from a figure who had upset Giselle.


    Andrew. K:


    I¡¯m in the lobby of the hotel where you¡¯re staying. Can we meet? This time, I insisted. I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t see you anymore.

 [63]

    ¡°Your face looks pale,¡± Andrew said in a regretful tone. He shouldn¡¯t have pushed himself but what can he say. He didn¡¯t have much time. It had to be done right now. Don¡¯t let his rtionship with Giselle fall apart.


    ¡°I just need to rest.¡± Giselle chuckled. She stirred the hot chocte in front of her. It was fortunate that she had not taken any headache medication. Sipping the chocte in therge mug made her feel better. ¡°Didn¡¯t Brina tell you?¡± asked Giselle but you know, that question was just a guess. Although there was a possibility that it was true, but still, it was as if Giselle had left a message that if Andrew came to her desk, asked about her, tell her about what she had just said.


    ¡°He told me you were tired.¡± Andrew smiled slightly but it was a lifeless kind of smile. Just a casual one. ¡°What¡­ have you been neglecting your health for the past month?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Giselle replied immediately. ¡°I have an assistant who always monitors what goes into my body. My health is also always taken care of.¡±


    ¡°But there are times when the body responds to something painful with a decline in health,¡± Andrew says quietly.


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. Feeling clueless and not wanting to respond to anything, she chose to enjoy her hot chocte instead. Who knows, this one ss could make her feel better.


    Meanwhile, since leaving the banquet, Andrew had a lot to say to the girl in front of him, including his big decision to give Justin and the team a wedding invitation. There was no way Justin wouldn¡¯t tell Giselle, though it might be another day. Not tonight. He was sure that Giselle didn¡¯t know about the invitation yet. Because Brina was still in the middle of the banquet and because of her, Andrew knew the hotel where Giselle was staying.


    Feeling that no one was talking between them, through the tail of her eyes Giselle noticed how the man in front of her was. thest time they met, at a cafe not far from Giselle¡¯s apartment in Centralia. They talked about many things and their rtionship was getting closer. Not for a rtionship towards romance, but a friendship that Giselle found quite enjoyable. to the point, where Andrew no longer sent messages. Also the chocte cookies that the man had specially ordered for Giselle.


    Giselle herself didn¡¯t know what was going on. She thought everything was fine. Using the most eptable logic, Andrew was busy with his business. But tonight¡­


    ¡°What do you want to talk about?¡± asked Giselle finally. It was unbearable to continue in silence like this, and Andrew¡¯s face looked like it had been hit by a huge weight. One that was very difficult to lift. Maybe if it could be weighed or simply calcted, there were thousands of tons hanging on his shoulders. Is it work rted?


    ¡°Next month I¡¯m getting married,¡± Andrew said in a very low tone. he hoped Giselle wouldn¡¯t hear, but it seemed unlikely. apart from the fact that the atmosphere of the cafe in the hotel lobby was quite quiet, the girl in front of him was listening carefully to what Andrew wanted to say.


    ¡°With the girl you were with earlier?¡± asked Giselle with a probing look.


    Andrew was still faithfully enjoying his cup of coffee, but the words just now responded by Giselle made him couldn¡¯t help but raise his gaze. He looked back at Giselle who, despite the thick sses and hat that partially covered her face, was still Giselle in Andrew¡¯s eyes.


    There was nothing she could hide from him including the beauty that had imprisoned Andrew¡¯s heart from the start.


    ¡°Fania?¡± Andrew chuckled. Remembering the small, ah¡­ big favor Fania had given him this night. if it wasn¡¯t for Fania, Andrew wouldn¡¯t be here. remembering how his father had put a restraint as tight as a leash around a pet dog¡¯s neck, made Andrew ustrophobic. So tight that he couldn¡¯t even breathe.


    ¡°I just remembered that meeting Fania at one of the Miss World activities was the first time you appeared together.¡± Giselle chuckled at the detail she had missed. ¡°If only I had known from the start, I might have chosen to keep my distance.¡±


    ¡°From whom?¡± asked Andrew immediately.


    ¡°Who else?¡± Giselle chose to keep herughter to herself. Returning to sipping the hot chocte that she was morefortable savoring a few sips of. ¡°Did you guys have a rtionship back then?¡±


    ¡°We got engaged a long time ago.¡± Andrew sighed softly. No matter what happened in his life, he didn¡¯t want Giselle to know about itter. Although he was sure that, for now, Giselle considered him nothing more than a friend. It didn¡¯t matter.


    He really needed time to get out of the crazy trap created by his family.


    ¡°I heard that Fania is the granddaughter of the former president.¡± Giselle put down her ss.


    Andrew only replied with a nod.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°Why is such important news not getting out?¡± asked Giselle curiously. ¡°Was it because you didn¡¯t want any extra publicity? And because you used it to get close to me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that,¡± Giselle cut in immediately. ¡°I don¡¯t have such bad intentions, Giselle. Really.¡±


    Giselle smiled slightly but also sadly. ¡°So what?¡±


    Andrew clenched his hands into fists.


    ¡°You¡¯re already engaged but still have a great desire to get close to me?¡± Giselle closed her eyes for a moment. ¡°Even though I¡¯ve set boundaries, I can still see your true intentions to stay by my side.¡± She gave Andrew a sharp look. ¡°You know, you¡¯re nothing like that loser guy who ys with women¡¯s feelings.¡± Giselle wanted to leave the table and go to her room. But for some reason, she still wasn¡¯t satisfied talking.


    There was still something stuck in his heart.


    ¡°Fania looks good and suits you,¡± Giselle said again. ¡°Please, don¡¯t make an act of being a cheap man who approaches many women like you did for me. If that woman wasn¡¯t me, I don¡¯t know how broken her heart would be knowing what the approaching man is hiding.¡± Giselleughed sadly. ¡°My heart is still protected from loving someone else but honestly, Andrew, I¡¯m disappointed.¡±


    Andrew swallowed with difficulty, as if a lot of thorns had been swallowed.


    ¡°I guess there¡¯s nothing to talk about, right?¡± Giselle got up from her seat. ¡°I wish you all happiness.¡±


    ¡°For some reason, I hear a hint of jealousy in your every word, Giselle.¡± Andrew began to smile again, shaking off the confusion that had been building up in his life because of the coercion that had taken ce. Although it sounded painful as well as there were a lot of harsh and angry tones in the words Giselle had just said, but a glimmer of joy came over Andrew¡¯s heart.


    It didn¡¯t matter if others called her insane. For now, let¡¯s just hope that Giselle is a little jealous of the news Andrew has brought.


    ¡°Me?¡± Giselle was stunned. She did not step away from the table where the hot chocte was still partially left. Even the man she was talking to, who had a faint smile and that annoying look in his eyes, was there again, after having looked so dull and colorless before.


    ¡°I¡¯m jealous of you?¡± Giselle sat back in her chair. ¡°You¡¯re not wrong to use me?¡±


    ¡°Where did I go wrong?¡± asked Andrew with a chuckle.


    ¡°Your dreams are too high, Andrew. I¡¯m disappointed, not jealous. It¡¯s a different feeling.¡± Giselle folded her arms across her chest. ¡°Very, very different,¡± Giselle emphasized once again.


    ¡°May I offer a rebuttal?¡± asked Andrew in as cautious a tone as possible. Even so, his smile grew wider at the corners of his lips. Even if he didn¡¯t have full control of Giselle¡¯s heart right now, at the very least, weren¡¯t all of Giselle¡¯s words a great gateway to her future rtionship?


    ¡°Why argue? I don¡¯t need any exnation from you.¡± Giselle chuckled in annoyance.


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Andrew said. Before speaking again, he chose to savor his coffee a little. To which he felt, tonight¡¯s coffee was back to its usual deliciousness. After almost a month of drinking coffee, he couldn¡¯t enjoy it as much as he did tonight. ¡°But most of the time, if a woman doesn¡¯t need an exnation, she usually has a lot of questions in her heart.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking out of your ass, Andrew,¡± Giselle snorted with a look of disapproval.


    ¡°I¡¯m not rambling.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°Even if you don¡¯t ask, I¡¯ll still exin. I don¡¯t want you to hear this from anyone else. Believe me, this is what happens in my seemingly perfect but hellish life.¡±


    Since there was no response from Giselle, Andrew spoke again. ¡°Do you want more hot chocte? Because I think the fairy tale of my life is as long as the train.¡±

 [64]

    ¡°Why should I obey you?¡± Giselle asked but couldn¡¯t move. For some reason, her heart wanted to hear what was really going on. But her ego said, why listen to a man like Andrew?


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be better if you sat down?¡± Andrew smiled slightly. ¡°I have plenty of time tonight.¡±


    Giselle rolled her eyes in annoyance. She pulled back the chair that had been pushed a little. She sat down with a scowling look but her eyes never left Andrew¡¯s. ¡°I just found out that you can¡¯t be busy.¡±


    ¡°There are times when I¡¯m busy and times when I¡¯m not, depending on what I prioritize.¡±


    The girl again chuckled in annoyance. ¡°Speed up your story. I need a break.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Andrew straightened up slightly. ¡°Can I get you another hot chocte?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Giselle said quickly. ¡°I won¡¯t take much time. Speed up your story.¡±


    ¡°I think someone is getting impatient.¡± Andrew could no longer contain himself. He smiled widely with an amused chuckle but really, his heart was overjoyed. At the very least, the opportunity to exin what really happened was at hand. It was up to Giselle how she would respond, but at the very least, this was the best Andrew could do.


    ¡°As I said earlier, I was engaged to Fania for a long time. We agreed not to tell the public because this arranged marriage is all about business. Langham and Kingston wanted to develop a crucial line of business, but it couldn¡¯t happen immediately because there was a lot of red tape to go through. To make things easier, as the originator of the idea, Hanry Kingston nned our match.¡±


    ¡°And you don¡¯t like each other?¡± interrupted Giselle with a sneer.


    ¡°Yes. We don¡¯t like each other. Fania has a boyfriend and I respect him.¡±


    ¡°Tsk!¡± Giselle chuckled. ¡°How corny is your rtionship, but it¡¯s been going on for three years? Oh my.¡±


    ¡°Three years is not a short time for us to get to know each other. That¡¯s what you had in mind, right? Why couldn¡¯t we ept each other? Or¡­ why did we each choose someone else we liked instead of liking each other?¡±


    Giselle rolled her eyes. ¡°Something like that.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Andrewughed again. ¡°If it was that easy, I probably wouldn¡¯t have approached you.¡±


    ¡°Fania is quite beautiful as a woman. Friendly, well-mannered, and I don¡¯t think she carries herst name around with her. I noticed that when she was a guest speaker at the ministry a while ago.¡± Giselle gave her opinion on how Fania is in her eyes. That was honesty. ¡°And I think you¡¯re a good match for her.¡±


    ¡°Many people have told me that. Even I recognized how Fania was in public. But unfortunately, no one can force their heart to fall in love with anyone, just like Fania and her lover. Perhaps your notion of me and Fania beingpatible, you can say that about Fania¡¯s rtionship. They are far morepatible and worthy.¡±


    ¡°But you sent out invitations instead.¡± Giselle folded her arms across her chest. ¡°It¡¯s funny how you say this so easily, but in reality, you guys will be togetherter.¡±


    Andrew let out a long sigh. ¡°We have no choice.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re going to do what you don¡¯t want to do?¡± Giselle stared in surprise at Andrew.


    Which made the man speechless.


    ¡°You said, Fania has a lover. They love each other?¡±


    ¡°Very.¡± Andrewughed softly. no. he wasughing more at himself for being so much more unfortunate than Fania.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t think about Fania¡¯s feelings?¡±


    ¡°It was Fania who agreed to this marriage after the past few years of both of us avoiding each other. Saying excuses as usible as possible to keep this marriage dyed.¡±


    Giselle stared at Andrew in disbelief. ¡°Does that mean Fania isn¡¯t serious about her boyfriend? Her feelings are really just there?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I was confused myself at the time. But seeing Fania¡¯s determination, I was sure something had happened.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply.


    ¡°I told you the reason for our arranged marriage, right?¡±


    ¡°Business,¡± Giselle interrupted immediately.


    ¡°Also¡­ I¡¯m doing this marriage so that my mother can no longer live under pressure.¡±


    At first, Giselle wanted to sip back the warm chocte that was still half left. It didn¡¯t matter if she finished it because it was still her ss. But hearing Andrew¡¯s words just now, made Giselle look at him closely. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Andrew no longer had a smile. His gaze was much more despondent than before. He didn¡¯t even dare to lift his gaze from the table, choosing to trace the toe of his shoe or some other direction rather than return Giselle¡¯s gaze. Although he wanted to, he felt he had no power.


    He didn¡¯t want to talk to Giselle about such a private matter, but talking to a girl who he thought had a sincere heart and had captivated him from the beginning, he didn¡¯t want anything to be covered up anymore. I don¡¯t know. Andrew felt confident that Giselle was the right person for him to confide in. Although he didn¡¯t know how his rtionship with Giselle would turn out in the future, but at least, for tonight, he could take some of the weight off his shoulders.


    By telling his story to the girl who no longer gave him cynical looks and responses. Andrew believed that Giselle was a good listener.


    ¡°I¡¯m the child Hanry Kingston didn¡¯t expect. Unfortunately, I was born with the blood of a man I don¡¯t even want to consider my father. I¡¯m too tired to show myself wanting his acknowledgment but all that happens is that I¡¯m increasingly tortured by his freedom. If I don¡¯tply, my mother will be his first victim.¡±


    ***


    ¡°Giselle,¡± Brina slightly shook the shoulder of the girl who was still wrapped in the nket. The temperature in Giselle¡¯s room was not too cold, the lights were still dim even though it was already noon. Veryte in the day in fact but Giselle had no intention of waking up from her deep sleep.


    Giselle just squirmed softly. pulled the nket back up to cover her face. mumbled softly, ¡°I still want to sleep, Brina. Let me stay in bed all day.¡±


    Brina chuckled. ¡°You skipped breakfast. Come on¡­ get up first. You¡¯ve got us all worried.¡±


    Giselle waved her hand. ¡°I¡¯m not hungry,¡± she said softly. ¡°I just need some sleep.¡±


    ¡°What time did you guys talk, anyway?¡± Brina ruffled Giselle¡¯s nket rather roughly. It didn¡¯t matter if the girl pouted or antagonized her for the rest of the day. she just didn¡¯t want Giselle to not fill her stomach with breakfast. It was already ten o¡¯clock and it felt¡­ no longer breakfast that should enter Giselle¡¯s body.


    ¡°Whose fault is it to tell me which hotel I¡¯m staying at?¡± Giselle grabbed the pillow on the other side of her head. Covering her head quickly to block out the sunlighting in from between the opened curtains. ¡°Brina,e on¡­ I know my schedule while I¡¯m here. I want to rx for the day.¡±


    ¡°But you have to have breakfast, Giselle! Nico said you had a feverst night. But you went out and talked to Andrew? Until the morning? Are you crazy?¡±


    Giselle chuckled in annoyance. It didn¡¯t matter that her long hair was a mess. Her eyes still wouldn¡¯t open fully but she could already give Brina the saddest look possible. her face was also very typical of a wakeful person. ¡°You¡¯re such a nuisance. I didn¡¯t talk to Andrew until the morning! I don¡¯t have a fever either, just tired from yesterday!¡±


    ¡°If Nico hadn¡¯t driven you and asked you to take your medicine, you could have ended up in the hospital. And if Andrew hadn¡¯t talked to youst night, I¡¯m sure you¡¯d be even worse.¡±


    Giselle frowned. ¡°You¡¯d better prepare breakfast for me than talk so much.¡±


    ¡°Change your clothes and wash your face!¡± Brina scrunched up her waist. ¡°Your breakfast is on the table and Justin is waiting for you.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes blinked with excitement. ¡°Justin?¡±


    ¡°Yes. You didn¡¯t forget to ask her for a present, did you?¡±


    The girl¡¯s mouth opened fully. ¡°Damn it¡­.¡±

 [65]

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for not apanying you until the end of the event,¡± Giselle said regretfully. Her mouthful was no longer as full as before. Although Justin didn¡¯t mention Giselle¡¯s absence during the banquet, Giselle knew better. She had to talk to her boss.


    ¡°No problem,¡± Justin said, eating the omelette that was served to him. ¡°You do look tired, I should apologize for forcing you toe along.¡± The man put down his cutlery slowly. He reached out to run his hand through Giselle¡¯s neatlybed hair.


    Still wearing her sleeping pajamas, just to wash her face and make herself look a bit presentable, Giselle chose to eat in the room. Since the room she upies is quite spacious, there is also a dining table and chairs avable despite the minimalist model.


    Justin didn¡¯t mind apanying Giselle to eat her breakfast. After all, he had just had a waffle and a cup of coffee. At least this cheese-coated egg-mixed potato omelette can make his stomach full.


    ¡°What about Harvey?¡± Giselle smiled cheerfully at Justin¡¯s treatment just now, taking in what the man had given her. ¡°I haven¡¯t said hello to him since earlier.¡±


    ¡°I think I spent some time at the branch that just opened yesterday. There were some photo shoots there too.¡±


    Giselle nodded in understanding. ¡°For catalog purposes?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it will also be chosen from your previous photo collection. Thetest of course because what you wear, always sells out.¡± Justin grinned widely. ¡°Thanks to Giselle Namiozuka¡¯s great influence.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°You¡¯re praising me as if I¡¯m the one who worked hard all by myself,¡± sheughed. ¡°You forget, behind SEO there are many people who support it.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯d forget a precious detail like that, Giselle.¡± Justin finished his meal. ¡°I¡¯ve given everyone a well-deserved bonus and they¡¯re all happy. Including three extra days off before we head back to Centralia.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± asked Giselle with a look of excitement that could not be concealed. She was so shocked and excited that it was her day off, the day she had been waiting for. Spending time in this ce wouldn¡¯t hurt either.


    ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m joking?¡± asked Justin with an amused chuckle. ¡°Did you have breakfast? If so, I¡¯ll wait for you to get ready. Let¡¯s¡­ take a vacation. You want us to go on a date, right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the best, Justin!¡± Giselle squealed with delight. She rushed over to Justin and hugged him tightly. Ignoring the fact that Justin had often said emphatically that he had no feelings for her. At all. What Justin did for her was nothing more than that Giselle was the dearest sister of Justin Stockholm.


    ¡°Hurry up. You don¡¯t want to stay upte, do you? Harvey said you guys have an appointment to walk around the city at night?¡±


    Actually, Giselle has never made such a promise but that¡¯s okay. Harvey had something to say and he had a lot of stories to share, minus the part he thought was private. About how Andrew¡¯s family really is.


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll be ready soon.¡± Giselle broke their embrace, leaving Justin to get busy with the rest of his work. For most SEO staff, a vacation is aplete break from the entangling links of work without exception. To really take advantage of the time to recharge and mostly unwind to get back into the high spirits of working under Justin¡¯s g in this country.


    It didn¡¯t take long, because ording to Giselle, being with Justin didn¡¯t require makeup like Giselle in front of the camera. She was more free and free, but Giselle still made herself up. Especially in terms of clothing color. As much as possible she looks for colors that match the colors Justin is wearing today.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready,¡± said Giselle with a cheerfulugh. wearing a dark navy hoodie made of slightly shiny material, knee-length, she only covered it with hotpants. She wore five-centimeter heels as a sweetener that matched the color of her tote bag. Not forgetting therge sunsses as essories. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Do you want me topliment you on your beauty too?¡± Justinughed. He tidied up his work and put it in his bag. ¡°Please put it next to your bed, Giselle. It¡¯s my workptop, a lot of valuable stuff in there.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Giselleplied. Keeping it well because she knew how valuable it was that it must contain many important designs and documents.


    ¡°My car is already in the lobby, I guess we¡¯re ready to travel?¡±


    ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    ¡°Making time.¡± Justin chuckled, put his arm around Giselle and quickly left the girl¡¯s room, having left a message with Brina that the two of them would be gone probably untilte afternoon.


    ¡°I heard Andrew met youst night?¡± asked Justin as they got into the car. After making sure Giselle was wearing her seatbelt, he had also set the GPS in the car for directions. In this case, the GPS was indeed very helpful to speed up their arrival at their destination.


    ¡°That¡¯s the way it is.¡±


    ¡°You knew that guy was getting married?¡±


    Giselle nodded without hesitation.


    ¡°I¡¯m quite surprised by the news, apart from the Langham name, and why such news seems to be covered up. We all know how influential Kingston is in whatever is reported across the country.¡±


    Giselle only responded with a nod, her eyes already focused on the path Justin was taking following the directions.


    ¡°But their rtionship doesn¡¯t bother you, does it?¡± Justin asked, ncing at Giselle who was still silent.


    ¡°Why bother?¡±


    Justin grinned slightly. ¡°I don¡¯t think you¡¯re stupid enough to be able to tell what Andrew wants from his behavior towards you over the past few months.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know.¡± Giselle sat back down again. This time, she made her seat asfortable as possible. The directions informed her that their journey would take about an hour. At the very least, she needed afortable recline, right?


    ¡°I had nothing to do with their rtionship. I was just a little disappointed that Andrew hid it from me. But after hearing all his exnationsst night, I understand why there had to be a wedding.¡±


    ¡°And you don¡¯t like it?¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°Why should I dislike it? As a friend, maybe this is why I felt disappointed that Andrew didn¡¯t tell me. Although I felt overconfident because I thought Andrew was a friend. Oh¡­ how stupid of me.¡± Giselle patted her forehead lightly. ¡°But Andrew is a good guy in my opinion.¡±


    ¡°Good enough,¡± Justin corrected. ¡°You don¡¯t know who Andrew is yet, do you? Don¡¯t trust too easily.¡±


    ¡°Does Andrew still have a goal of harming me?¡± asked Giselle with a look of disbelief.


    ¡°No.¡± Justin said emphatically. ¡°If that happens, I won¡¯t hesitate to make him do what I want. He won¡¯t be able to move.¡±


    Giselle let out a sigh of relief.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°But an improvement on your life, Giselle.¡± Justin nced over with a faint smile. ¡°You can judge a person¡¯s personality and believe in the sincerity of others besides those around you. Your confidence level is growing.¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡¯s wrong, right?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡± Justinughed. ¡°In the end, you have toe out of distrust of people. It¡¯s not necessarily the case that people who approach you have bad intentions, although¡­ they should still be watched out for. In this case, Andrew, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s necessary. I believe he was sincere in approaching you.¡±


    ¡°I see, huh?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately¡­ she¡¯s getting married soon.¡±


    Giselle smiled slightly. ¡°I wish her happiness. I think with Fania, Andrew is a good match.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± asked Justin with a probing look.


    ¡°Why am I not sure?¡±


    Justin didn¡¯t answer, choosing to focus on the steering wheel.


    ¡°In my heart there is still someone else¡¯s name. I can¡¯t shift that easily just because of what Andrew has done to metely. if aparison is made, it¡¯s still too far what that guy has done to me,pared to Andrew. so I guess, as a good friend, I want happiness for Andrew too. He¡¯s a good guy.¡±

 [66]

    There¡¯s nothing more exciting in Giselle¡¯s life right now than being with Justin. Just the two of them. Enjoying the refreshing air above the hills. The area they were visiting this time looked much smaller. There was a lot of activity down there, it looked busy and like what Giselle had been through in the city center, not unlike the always bustling Centralia.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± asked Justin as he handed Giselle a hot chocte.


    ¡°If Brina were here, I would definitely be put on a multiyered diet.¡±


    Justinughed at Giselle¡¯s words. ¡°Did you have chocte with Andrewst night?¡±


    ¡°Just one ss.¡±


    The air in the hills was quite cool, not to the point where Giselle had to regret her choice of clothing. There was also no need for an extra scarf because it was still eptable for Giselle¡¯s baster-white skin.


    ¡°At least you didn¡¯t eat chocte cookies the day before. Right?¡±


    Giselle just grinned. ¡°I was so busy that I forgot that chocte cookies were a part of my life.¡±


    Justin only responded with a chuckle.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to personally congratte you on the sess of Monochromest night, Justin. I know, your capacity is truly extraordinary.¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    The man nodded, sipping his coffee slowly. ¡°Next year, I want something sexy. I think red is quite eptable.¡±


    Giselle shook her head in surprise. ¡°You just finished a long job but are already thinking about something else? Does your brain not stop working?¡±


    ¡°Working in a world like ours, if you don¡¯t think tactically and immediately, and take advantage of the momentum that exists, you will be left far behind. you must realize that, right? your flying hours must have taught you that we must be able to adjust to the existing market. it cannot be denied, designers have their own ideals but still have to follow what the market wants for certain models. If you don¡¯t want to be eroded by the rapid progress of the times. That¡¯s why I have two lines that you know what the market price is.¡±


    Giselle smiled broadly. she was proud of what Justin had to say when it came to his work. It was never in Justin¡¯s dictionary to work half-heartedly. Everything was done with a lot of hard work and thought. Everything is well calcted.


    ¡°Oiya, Justin,¡± Giselle didn¡¯t want to waste the opportunity. Although most of her heart was aware of what was happening, but still, her ego was sky-high. There was no way she could ignore Justin¡¯s presence in her heart.


    ¡°What?¡± asked Justin with a frown on his forehead. When Giselle didn¡¯t speak, she fiddled with the hem of her hoodie. Like someone who was nervous but because of what?


    ¡°If Andrew had decided to get married, even though I think they did it unwillingly, but I think that love can exist out of habit.¡±


    ¡°Maybe. I never thought about it. It just didn¡¯t cross my mind.¡± Justin went back to savoring his coffee. ¡°I still want to focus on the works that are running through my head, Giselle. Or¡­ do you want to get married? To who?¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Giselle frowned but then smiled broadly. ¡°But if the groom is you, I don¡¯t mind. I¡¯m willing.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s words were met with a bigugh from Justin. ¡°This is you.¡± Even the one where Justin¡¯s hand ruffled Giselle¡¯s hair without caring, the girl would be angry because her hairdo, which was only half-pinned, was messed up by his actions.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, Justin.¡± Giselle lowered Justin¡¯s hand slowly. She put down the ss she had been savoring the contents of. Even Justin¡¯s coffee cup so as not to disturb him who wanted to talk. She tried to forget the words Justin had said to her when he drove her to the ministry some time ago.


    Last night, after finding out what happened to Andrew, Giselle was relieved. At least, there weren¡¯t as many questions in her mind about why Andrew had suddenly drifted away. Gisel didn¡¯t want to interfere too much, though. It is enough to pray that what they choose will have the best impact on their lives in the future.


    At the very least,¡­


    ¡°After this, I hope our friendship is no longer tenuous,¡± Andrew said in a low tone. the look in his eyes no longer had any joy. Even so, Giselle didn¡¯t want to ask too many questions. She could only encourage him.


    ¡°You pushed me away, didn¡¯t you? I stayed in the same ce. You said you were busy. Me too. But maybe a month ago, you were at a point of indecision about a decision that would change your life?¡±


    ¡°I guess so,¡± said Andrew, who was still unwilling to raise his eyes.


    ¡°We¡¯re still good friends, really. You shouldn¡¯t worry too much.¡±


    They were silent for a while. Perhaps each of them absorbed the conversation which was quite exciting and seemed to be very private. If it¡¯s already a family matter, Giselle feels that this story cannot be carelessly shared with others.


    ¡°May I know something, Giselle?¡± This time, Andrew tried to look at Giselle. It would probably be longer than usual. At least, for onest time before everything started.


    ¡°About?¡± Giselle blinked in surprise. ¡°As long as I can answer it, I will.¡±


    ¡°With honesty?¡±


    ¡°Have you ever seen me lie?¡± Giselle snickered.


    ¡°In case¡­ I cancel the marriage because my feelings for you are too great, can you give me a little space? More than just a friend?¡±


    ¡°Why should it be canceled? Didn¡¯t you say yourself that this marriage is not only for business, but it¡¯s also rted to your mother?¡±


    Andrew nodded slowly.


    ¡°Although I disagree on that part, you have the right to be free to decide who your partner is. I think your father needs to straighten out his thoughts on what a child is and his love and business goals. But¡­¡± Giselle shrugged. ¡°You know best what¡¯s best.¡±


    ¡°If I can break free from their clutches, can I ask for your heart?¡±


    Giselle smiled faintly. ¡°My heart is already upied by someone else.¡±


    ¡°Does that person also have the same feelings as you?¡±


    For this question, Giselle was silent. She chose to clear her throat briefly and then took a sip of her hot chocte.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so, yes.¡± Andrew sighed softly.


    ¡°None of your business, right?¡±


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Andrew said with a sad smile. ¡°But at least I know if the hardness of your heart opened up because of someone else. Is there no room for me?¡±


    ¡°If there is, what do you want to do?¡±


    Andrew looked Giselle straight in the eye and confidently said, ¡°I¡¯ll make that very small part full of my name.¡±


    ¡°Your marriage?¡±


    Andrew smiled instead. Deflecting the conversation that Giselle thought was quite exciting if ignored but still, Giselle¡¯s mind was no longer as calm as usual. Even so, Giselle believed that Andrew would not do anything strange. from what the man sitting in front of her said, Andrew¡¯s position was not in a position to benefit from the marriage. even if Giselle could say, Andrew¡¯s position was at a point where he had to ept everything without exception.


    The conversation came out of nowhere because what Andrew said was true. Giselle realized that she couldn¡¯t be in Justin¡¯s heart as a woman. He thought of her as a little sister to be fiercely protected.


    ¡°Do I really not strike you as a woman? One that you can love and share many things in life that are more personal than Justin?¡±


    Justin looked down at his hand that Giselle was holding. He sighed and patted the back of her hand gently. ¡°You know my answer, right? And it¡¯s going to be like that, Giselle. You¡¯re valuable to my life, but more than you know, I can¡¯t.¡±


    Giselle was silent.


    ¡°This is thest time I¡¯ll talk about my feelings for you. Don¡¯t ever ask me anything that makes you hurt again. I don¡¯t want our rtionship to be ruined just because of something like this. I don¡¯t consider it trivial, but I can¡¯t consider it ruining what I¡¯ve nned and what you have to go through.¡±


    There was no response from Giselle which made Justin exhale a long breath. ¡°We¡¯re going home now? I think Harvey¡¯s waiting for you.¡±


    Before Justin¡¯s hand in Giselle¡¯s waspletely released, the girl said, ¡°If one day you meet a woman who makes your heart have different feelings, will you leave me?¡±

 [67]

    ¡°Should I pick you up?¡± asked Justin as soon as Giselle got out of her car. at the restaurant where Harvey was waiting, just to pass the time until the evening. Justin had nned to apany them. Giselle¡¯s expression of feelings for him didn¡¯t have much influence on what he would do. including his treatment of Giselle.


    For him, Giselle just hasn¡¯t realized how she really feels. He let it go while giving direction, if the feelings Giselle had would notst long.


    ¡°No need.¡± Giselle smiled broadly. ¡°You know, we want to spend more time than just eating here.¡±


    Justinughed. ¡°Alright, I give in.¡±


    ¡°Irena¡¯s been calling you all day anyway, right? Not to mention Hans. Didn¡¯t you give them a day off? Intentionally to keep track of work?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine,¡± Justin grumbled unhappily. ¡°I¡¯ve given them the same day off. They¡¯re the ones who don¡¯t know better, who don¡¯t use their time properly.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why I don¡¯t believe it.¡± Giselleughed at that. ¡°Never mind, you¡¯ve been waiting too. I wanted you to pay all our bills.¡±


    ¡°You guys are amazing.¡± But that didn¡¯t make Justin angry. Instead, he took out his wallet and gave Giselle a special card. ¡°Put it on and have fun.¡±


    Giselle would not refuse. ¡°Thank you, my good boss.¡±


    ¡°Get out of my sight before I regret giving you that card.¡±


    Giselle couldn¡¯t help but giggle as she quickly entered the restaurant, where she immediately met Harvey who had been waiting for her. The smile that had originally graced the corners of Giselle¡¯s lips began to vanish. It was reced with a look of sadness that was far more painful than before.


    Justin¡¯s warning made her feel that he wasn¡¯t messing with his words. Although nothing had changed from the man¡¯s attitude towards her, but what for if Giselle couldn¡¯t have his heart? Isn¡¯t it a very, very tiring thing to only have one-sided feelings?


    Like the feelings that Giselle had for Justin.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°Damn it,¡± Giselle grumbled as she continued to walk, asionally watching her steps so as not to take the wrong step. She also rubbed the corners of her eyes to avoid looking like she was crying. She didn¡¯t want to risk the paparazzi identally meeting here.


    Last night, her performance wowed the crowd. Although she had to retire first, but at least, Giselle had stolen a lot of attention. And she was sure, there were still many eyes on her around this area. Maybe they were still working to cover other news. That was why, Giselle still needed to be cautious. Although it was difficult, she tried to remain calm.


    A waiter approached her and took Giselle by surprise. but immediately covered it with a sweet smile and asked to be escorted to the room where Harvey was waiting for her. he said, the girl was alone in booking such a luxurious ce. who knows what Harvey had in mind with the selection of this French-style restaurant.


    Even though she has a high honorarium from her work as an SEO model, eating at this ce really burns a hole in your pocket. Ah, but it doesn¡¯t seem to matter once in a while.


    ¡°Over there, Miss Giselle.¡± The waiter said as he pointed out the ce which had been reserved earlier.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Giselle pushed gently on the door of this room that looked so private. the building she had just entered, turned out to be just the courtyard. exactly like a restaurant inside a well-known star hotel, but in this ce there was more of a futuristic feel even though the other rooms were quite far apart.


    ¡°You took so long,¡± Harvey remarked with a frown. ¡°I almost finished one of my favorite ice creams here.¡±


    ¡°Excessive.¡± Giselle epted Harvey¡¯s hug but her eyes wandered around to observe how the room was arranged. ¡°You don¡¯t usually ask to eat in a ce like this?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ sometimes I need to spend money.¡± Harvey grinned slightly.


    ¡°Did you receive a visit before me?¡± asked Giselle as she pointed at the bouquet of flowers which this time were not just ordinary flowers but neatly arranged bills and if Giselle could count quickly, the money had a considerable value.


    ¡°Short visit.¡± Harvey asked Giselle to sit opposite him. ¡°Shall we serve the food now?¡±


    ¡°Did you order it?¡±


    Harvey shrugged his shoulders. ¡°I ordered all the menus and you can rest easy, I paid for everything.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. Not to say who was going to pay the bill, but she had a feeling this wasn¡¯t Harvey for once. ¡°You¡­ possessed?¡±


    Harvey red in disbelief. He moved closer to Giselle and wrapped his arms around her tightly. ¡°Put your mouth to good use, Giselle!¡±


    Giselle flinched but tried to pull away. ¡°This isn¡¯t you at all.¡±


    ¡°I have very good intentions for you, just so you know!¡± Harvey didn¡¯t want to let go of the embrace. ¡°I¡¯d like to have a nice meal with you here. As a token of my gratitude to you¡­ I¡¯ve made good friends. And because of you, I¡¯ve made a friend I can trust.¡±


    Giselle raised her hands in surrender. ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°That sucks, though.¡± Harvey finally let go of her embrace. He sighed for a moment but thenughed, lost in Giselle¡¯sughter this afternoon. After calming down a bit, he asked the waiter to serve the food that had been ordered. Afterward, he returned to the seat in front of Giselle. She noticed that her best friend was busy with the dessert menu.


    ¡°I¡¯ve ordered a variety of chocte desserts. Satisfied?¡±


    Giselle grinned widely. ¡°You know very well what I want. Thank you, Harvey. I really needed chocte.¡±


    ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    It may sound like a trivial question, but for Giselle who doesn¡¯t have many friends, not many people she can trust like she trusts Brina and Justin, Harvey¡¯s question has a lot of meaning.


    ¡°Maybe¡­ since you left the banquet?¡±


    ¡°It will be a long story.¡±


    ¡°We have enough time to talk. That is why I asked for a ce that is much more private than other areas.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes narrowed suspiciously. ¡°Do you also have something to share?¡±


    Harvey was silent for a while but then, nodded slowly.


    ¡°Ah, so that¡¯s why you asked me to a ce like this.¡± Giselle smiled knowingly. ¡°Alright then. Let¡¯s draw lots, who will start the story first.¡±


    ¡°There is no such thing.¡±


    ¡°There is,¡± Giselle was not to be outdone.


    ¡°Too far-fetched!¡±


    Giselle frowned. ¡°That means we are the forerunners or the originators of the idea of who should start telling the sad part of our lives.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re this!¡± Harvey growled under his breath. ¡°You go first!¡±


    ¡°Why me?¡±


    ¡°It looks like you¡¯ve been crying. Didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Giselle gaped but then, she covered it up with a strange smile on her face. ¡°What about you getting such an expensive gift?¡± Giselle pointed at the paper bag next to the bouquet of flowers.


    Harvey was stunned. ¡°Well¡­ I lost.¡± He let out a long sigh. ¡°But I hope you can digest it well.¡±


    ¡°Is it bad?¡±


    ¡°I guess so.¡±

 [68]

    Tonight was thest night for Giselle¡¯s team. There is only a three-day break for her to prepare for the continued work that awaits. Brina said that Giselle should use the break very well to lose weight.


    ¡°I don¡¯t do much cheating, Brina. Why do I have to follow all these exercise schedules?¡± asked Giselle in a protesting tone. In her hand was the schedule she had to do before starting work at Masshacutes.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You¡¯re not cheating much?¡± Brina chuckled in annoyance. ¡°You should be talking to the wall, not me.¡±


    Giselle pursed her lips. She had already changed her clothes, ready to rest and enjoy thest night of the show, as well as the end of a pleasant vacation.


    ¡°Get some sleep. Our flight is at ten tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Yes-yes-yes.¡± Giselle pulled up her nket. Preparing to sink into dreams and let the door to her room close. Even Brina turned off the room¡¯s main light, recing it with a nightlight. It was confirmed that Brina was also doing the same thing; sleeping.


    But Giselle was not sleepy. She was thinking about what had happened in the past few days while she was in this region where many people traveled, especially the night after the show. Andrew and Fania¡¯s wedding invitation. The expression of his feelings for Justin. The conversation over a big meal with Harvey.


    Everything is rolling again.


    ¡°Nothing is easy as long as we breathe apparently,¡± Giselle muttered as she pulled back the covers. She also chose to enjoy the night, from high up and adjacent to the window. She didn¡¯t want to hear any more of Brina¡¯s ramblings about the night air being too cold. So she sat by the window of her room. Where she could still enjoy the deep, star-filled night.


    ¡°I hope Andrew can be happy,¡± Giselle said sincerely. ¡°They¡¯re both good people. It¡¯s just the selfishness around them that keeps them down. Tsk! What a pity.¡± She rubbed the tip of her chin lightly. ¡°Someday if I have children, I don¡¯t want to be selfish like that. Just thinking about it makes my hair stand up.¡±


    There was nothing but the sound of the air-conditioning machine and the ticking of the clock. Unfortunately, Giselle waspletely devoid of sleepiness. Was it because she had been having fun at the salon all day? Rxing with Harvey but should¡­ she be able to fall asleep soon, right?


    Remembering Harvey, she remembers the story of his life.


    ¡°You¡¯re an adult. I have no right to interfere too deeply. You know what the consequences will be if it continues. All I can say is, don¡¯t let Justin down,¡± Giselle said at the end of Harvey¡¯s shocking story. But as she says, she has no right to interfere with Harvey¡¯s choices. Especially after she found out what drove the girl to do something that could be considered ¡­ quite crazy.


    ¡°Until I reach my goal, I won¡¯t stop. And Justin knows where I¡¯m headed.¡± Harvey smiled slightly. ¡°He wants me, and that¡¯s the price Justin has to pay.¡±


    Giselle closed her eyes for a moment. she felt her heart beating for a moment. It was beating normally, nothing had changed and it should not stop suddenly. Giselle was not ready to meet her mother in heaven. Instead, she felt the pain of remembering what Justin had warned her about.


    Everything about Justin was not as simple as it seemed. And after hearing Harvey¡¯s story, where the part that Giselle thought was private, but shared with him withplete trust, made Giselle do the same. How she came to be in SEO, what Justin did to her, and how her feelings ended up with the man who was her boss.


    ¡°I expected that from you, Giselle. Seeing how Justin looks and what he does for those around him, it¡¯s only natural that you¡¯d have feelings for him.¡± Harvey sipped his soda. Most of the food on the table had been devoured unknowingly by both of them. No one was watching how many calories and fat were going in, for them, vacation was a time to eat with no limits.


    Especially what they love; chocte and soda.


    ¡°But I think you should do what Justin says. Loving someone else without reciprocation is painful, Giselle. It¡¯s better to find someone who loves you without question, than to have such one-sided feelings.¡±


    ¡°You think finding someone like that is easy?¡± Giselle chuckled but with a sad voice. She quickly took a sip of the soda in front of her. ¡°Um¡­ I think we should order some wine? Getting a little drunk won¡¯t be a problem, right?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be weird.¡± Harveyughed. ¡°Either we get locked up by Justin or worse, we listen to Brina rant about the consequences of getting drunk in a ce like this.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Giselle let out a long sigh. She ced her face on the table that looked free of tes and other dishes. ¡°That sucks.¡±


    Harvey rubbed Giselle¡¯s shoulder lightly. ¡°Such a man was in your life, it¡¯s just that you rejected his existence. And when it was toote, you werepletely speechless.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Giselle raised her face again. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize that.¡±


    ¡°Indeed!¡± Harvey spluttered. ¡°But I¡¯m sure, if you are indeed linked, it won¡¯t be easy to break what God has destined.¡±


    Giselle rolled her eyes in annoyance. ¡°You talk like a poet, like you know best what love is. But look at your life and your choices?¡±


    Harveyughed excitedly. ¡°Don¡¯t you think about life and what I want to do. Once I¡¯m satisfied with everything and they know I can do the craziest things in the world, I¡¯ll stop.¡±


    ¡°And I hope that when you want to stop, you can¡¯t move at all. Instead, you¡¯re trapped, captive, and have nowhere to go but up with what you¡¯ve already done.¡±


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Harvey punched Giselle lightly on the shoulder. ¡°Being honest with you makes me regret it!¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯ve already recorded what you said in my mind!¡± said Giselle smugly.


    ¡°Talking to you is annoying sometimes.¡± Harvey pulled out his chair again. ¡°My one message, Giselle. Forget what¡¯s in your heart. Justin is a man who is serious about his feelings. I don¡¯t me you at all, but if you keep bottling up your feelings like you are now, you won¡¯t be able to move on. You¡¯ll keep wasting people whoe to you sincerely.¡±


    Giselle was silent for a while. ¡°I see, huh?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better to be loved than to love, Giselle. It¡¯s nauseating.¡±


    Giselle opened her eyes slowly. The sky out there was still the same. the stars were shining even more even without the moon. In some corners, there were still vehicles passing by. The street lights, as well as some tall buildings, were brightly lit.


    ¡°How can I forget someone as close to my life as Justin?¡± He put his face in his hands. ¡°If being busy at work could help me forget this feeling, it would have been gone for months. But what do I get?¡± he said with a sad grin. ¡°Ah¡­ I¡¯m some.¡±


    Giselle pondered for a while, then let out a long sigh as if to voice what was on her mind. ¡°Looks like what Harvey said was right.¡± She began to close the curtains. She walked through the room at a slow pace until she got to her bed, which was a bit messy. ¡°I need to get rid of my feelings for Justin.¡±


    She had put the nket back on but her eyes were still staring at the ceiling. ¡°But¡­ can I?¡±

 [69]

    One month has passed.


    But Giselle is so busy that even breathing is difficult for her. Just to enjoy her chocte snack, she didn¡¯t have time. In the morning, Brina had pestered her with lots of energy-supplying and highly nutritious food, so that she wouldn¡¯t copse while working the schedule. It wasn¡¯t Brina¡¯s or SEO¡¯s fault about Giselle¡¯s schedule, but most of the clients wanted to work with this model whose name was shining through.


    ¡°Can I take a break?¡± asked Giselle as she adjusted the cardigan that was draped over her shoulder. The weather was a little chilly but it didn¡¯t hinder the photo shoot, which took ce on the banks of a calm river. Not far from the location, a beautiful waterfall looked so tempting to explore. Unfortunately, Justin gave Giselle a stern warning.


    Even though he only wanted to swim for a while, the man was angry even over the phone. Even so, Giselle didn¡¯t want to make that anger really happen. She obeyed whatever Justin said.


    ¡°Please, Miss Giselle. It just so happens that our kitchen crew has finished preparing the food.¡± One of the staff from Giselle¡¯s client spoke this time. Meanwhile, the cameraman, who seemed to be focused on watching his shots, could only smile slightly. He looked down slowly as if apologizing for not responding to what Giselle had just said.


    ¡°Wow, it must be delicious.¡± Giselle looked radiant. Her stomach was begging to be filled. Remembering her breakfast menu which was only cereal mixed with fruit, not disliking it, but for Giselle such a menu could onlyst a few hours. while her activities today, were very busy.


    Having just stepped away, Brina had already caught up with her. Giving Giselle her carry-on bag. ¡°I already took your lunch.¡±


    ¡°I want to eat freely, Brina. I need energy,¡± Giselle said with an annoyed whine.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°Yes, I know.¡± Brina gave up. ¡°The grilled fish with sauce has been specially prepared for you.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Giselle was impatient. ¡°Finally¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going overboard, Giselle.¡±


    But her words were ignored, instead, she quickened her pace towards the tent where she was resting. After eating, she nned to contact Harvey. In a week¡¯s time, they would be meeting soon. They were only given three days off, but they already had a lot nned.


    ¡°Bon appetit, Brina,¡± Giselle said as she sat down at her table. Which had already served what Brina had said earlier. It was so tempting, she wanted to finish it immediately, and didn¡¯t care if she had to go back on a dietter because her portion of food had increased. The air around this area made her appetite rise again.


    ¡°Bon appetit too, Giselle.¡± Although it was annoying, but Brina did not have the heart to see Giselle who was already happy with the dish. After all, their work was only a few days away here. Giselle had also stopped cheating in the past few days. Her time was really spent resting. Brina herself was quite surprised by the amount of activity during this time in Masshacutes.


    No one spoke during their meal. Giselle was enjoying her meal. Only the asional chatter was created that was only about the shoot. including the results she would get after this lunch. if there was nothing to repeat or some videos were appropriate and the results were satisfactory, they could return to the city center immediately. even so, there was an intention for Giselle to spend the night around the location because the atmosphere was so soothing.


    Only¡­ Brina disagreed. She said they should rest in the city center to avoid flight dys. Sometimes Giselle felt that Brina was the least fun woman in the world. Too rigid and too annoying, but unfortunately, Brina was the only one who could put up with Giselle¡¯s carelessness, clumsiness, and sometimes outrageous behavior.


    ¡°Oiya, have you heard the news?¡± Brina handed Giselle a bottle of water. To which the girl smiled cheerfully because Brina knew best what she needed. The meal was finished, leaving only the grilled fish head. Giselle¡¯s stomach was also no longer screaming with hunger. Her energy was fully replenished.


    The journey to the riverbank is a bit tough. It can¡¯t be done by car or other vehicles. they have to walk about two kilometers from the parking lot. It¡¯s only natural that he¡¯s hungry like this, right?


    ¡°What news?¡± Giselle wiped her slightly wet mouth. sat backfortably and stretched out her legs.


    ¡°Andrew¡¯s wedding.¡± Brina took out her cell phone. She fiddled with it for a moment while Giselle straightened her back.


    ¡°I forgot that the wedding is this month, huh?¡± She checked her schedule. Remembering well the date on the invitation, the date which she had circled in her special nner as falling on¡­ ¡°Oh my! Last week?!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Brina handed over her cell phone.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± Giselle red in disapproval. ¡°I promised to be there.¡± She gave Brina¡¯s cell phone a disapproving look. ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Read it first.¡± Brina grinned. ¡°I personally apologize for forgetting to tell you about Andrew¡¯s show, but Justin said not to disturb your concentration during the photo shoot here.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ ¡°Giselle let out a long sigh. ¡°Gosh, I never thought I could forget Andrew¡¯s happy day!¡± Her eyes began to read the news on Brina¡¯s phone screen. Slowly¡­ until¡­


    ¡°Seriously!¡± Giselle immediately got up from her seat. Her eyes bulged in disbelief at what was written there.


    ¡°I was shocked myself. Justin just told me the news and I immediately looked for other news, just in case it was a lie, but my source said it wasn¡¯t a fabrication.¡±


    Giselle gaped. Her eyes wandered back to the news and other links about what had happened on that supposedly happy Sunday. Even the gossip pages were aggressively posting and broadcasting news about important people in Centralia. The gossip columns were full of news of weddings that were predicted to cost a lot of money.


    How could you not?


    The granddaughter of the former president of Centralia will marry the son of a sessful businessman, and arguably has a big hand in broadcasting in the country where Giselle lives. Even the invitations, which are said to have been distributed to various circles, make the wedding party considered the most luxurious wedding of the year.


    Unfortunately¡­


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Andrew to do something this crazy.¡± Giselle sat back down. Her eyes focused on the photo of the happy bride and groom. Not just the bride, but also the groom. As if ignoring one fact, their marriage was not wanted by their parents. The photos of Hanry Kingston and Grace Langham didn¡¯t show any smiles at all, just the bare minimum.


    ¡°Look at their happy faces.¡± Brinaughed cheerfully. ¡°This is what marriage is all about.¡±


    Unconsciously, Giselle carved out a smile as well. ¡°You¡¯re right. marriage is the gateway to a new life. If the bond at the beginning isn¡¯t strong, isn¡¯t it the same as living a life like hell?¡±


    Brina looked at Giselle with a look of disbelief. ¡°You¡¯ve grown up a lot.¡±


    At Brina¡¯s words just now, Giselle red unhappily. she put down the cell phone immediately. then headed towards Brina who was stillughing in her chair. ¡°You think I¡¯m still a five-year-old boy?¡± She handed over her assistant¡¯s cell phone immediately. letting Brina¡¯sughter still fill her tent.


    She chose to get out of there, but she had her bag slung over her shoulder.


    ¡°How¡¯s Andrew?¡± asked Giselle as she looked up at the sky. It was clear, although asionally obscured by tall, shady trees, but Giselle knew that the sun was shining quite brightly outside. ¡°Should I call him?¡±

 [70]

    Giselle simply couldn¡¯t wait anymore. She had no idea how many times she had nced at the clock on her hand. Their meeting time should have taken ce ten minutes ago. I don¡¯t even know how many messages Giselle had sent just to ask, ¡°Where are you already?¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    But there was not a single reply.


    Until¡­


    ¡°Hi, Giselle!¡± Harvey waved excitedly. The white Porche with thetest license te, the roof opened wide, and the interior inside characterized that the white car was still smooth without any defects. ¡°Long time no see.¡±


    Giselle quickly got up from the waiting sofa in the lobby of her apartment. She looked at Harvey with a look of disbelief but then grinned widely. ¡°You¡¯re showing off, huh?¡±


    ¡°Why show off?¡± Harvey ruffled his long hair. ¡°This has been my dream car for a long time. Don¡¯t we need a vehicle?¡±


    Giselle rolled her eyes in annoyance. ¡°I thought Nico drove us and followed us wherever we were going today.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­¡± Harvey looked thoughtful. ¡°This car has a GPS that Justin and Nico can ess. I don¡¯t think they need to follow us, right?¡± That¡¯s right. Justin had asked the showroom to expand the GPS coverage and ess in the car Harvey was driving. Despite the protests, Justin was still Justin.


    She said, ¡°I don¡¯t know what kind of craziness you¡¯re up to out there, Harvey. But at least I knew your position immediately without having to go to the police.¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯d put myself in danger?¡± asked Harvey with his hands crossed. His eyes looked at Justin with a look of distaste. ¡°I don¡¯t agree with you having ess to the GPS.¡±


    ¡°In that case, let¡¯s stop the transaction. Or¡­ you pay the car bill yourself.¡±


    ¡°Justin!!!¡±


    Ah, remembering that conversation made Harvey feel annoyed and irritated again. Justin had really gone too far.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the same thing?¡± Giselle chuckled in disbelief.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear much of Justin¡¯s chatter. I didn¡¯t realize that guy was as annoying as an olddy. Oh, my God! Why do I have to work with a guy like that, anyway?¡± Harvey quickly opened the door. Letting Giselle in and sittingfortably. ¡°Should I close it?¡±


    ¡°Unless you want your face on a social media page with the caption ¡®Famous model, Harvey Princessa rides in this year¡¯s elegant andtest new car.¡±


    Harveyughed until he felt sick to his stomach. The corners of his eyes were wet from theughter he created while his best friend just chuckled with an annoyed face.


    ¡°But it¡¯s quite an interesting idea. I¡¯m tired of news about my activities and achievements under SEO.¡±


    ¡°What do you want anyway?¡± Giselle pressed the button to close the roof before they actually left the lobby. It wasn¡¯t that they didn¡¯t want to enjoy the beautiful day, but the pollution and fumes that would hit them in the face weren¡¯t good things to enjoy. After all, Harvey didn¡¯t matter when Giselle pressed the button just now.


    ¡°If it¡¯s a scandal involving my name, I¡¯m sure the uproar won¡¯t just be SEO, but the whole country.¡±


    Harveyughed again. He started the engine and prepared to leave the lobby area. ¡°But that¡¯s good, right? I can target all lines and well¡­ I¡¯ve achieved my goal.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy.¡±


    ¡°At least I¡¯m crazy with my own pace.¡±


    Giselle could only shake her head briefly. ¡°Just don¡¯t make Justin too much of a burden.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Harvey said immediately. ¡°I know my limits, Giselle, if that¡¯s what you¡¯re worried about. I burn myself, I don¡¯t want anyone else to participate except the people I want them to feel what I feel.¡±


    Giselle smiled slightly, rubbing Harvey¡¯s arm in support. ¡°Maybe when that timees, when everyone reviles and shuns you, believe me, I won¡¯t leave your side, Harvey. You¡¯re my friend.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the best.¡± Harvey smiled cheerfully. ¡°Speaking of scandals, did you know about Andrew¡¯s wedding?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Giselle sat backfortably. ¡°I forgot to attend the event. You know, my schedule at Masshacutes coincided with Andrew¡¯s event.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the same.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you¡­ go home first?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Giselle gave Harvey a longer look. ¡°Is Justin keeping us busy on purpose?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I haven¡¯t seen the boss in two weeks. He¡¯s busy, that¡¯s what I hear from Irena. Preparing for the boutique opening that¡¯sing up.¡±


    Giselle nodded in understanding.


    ¡°You yourself, have you contacted Andrew?¡±


    Giselle was silent for a long time until finally, Harvey spoke up again. ¡°I¡¯m sure you haven¡¯t contacted her at all.¡±


    ¡°What should I ask? Why did you run away from the altar? Is that so?¡±


    Harveyughed at Giselle¡¯s words. ¡°At the very least, what you need to ask about is news. From what you said about Andrew, I don¡¯t think it was easy to leave the altar. Especially when his recement is Fania¡¯s own lover. You know, both Langham and Kingston are outraged by the marriage, but if their marriage doesn¡¯t take ce, it¡¯s far more shameful than bearing witness to their love.¡±


    ¡°Fania really has guts,¡± said Giselle.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right.¡± Harvey steered the car onto the freeway. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect a girl like Fania to take such a bold action either.¡± He grinned. ¡°I give her two thumbs up.¡±


    Giselle was silent.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t contact Andrew at all?¡± Harvey asked once again. Besides being curious, he also needed to know something. What Giselle had done after the news of the wedding broke. How could it not be? The wedding, which was attended by many officials and people with interests in business and government, witnessed a bond that was originally not approved, finally ended without much debate.


    Perhaps if they had continued to use their egos, we can¡¯t imagine how embarrassing and awkward the marriage would have been.


    ¡°No.¡± Giselle nced at Harvey somewhat suspiciously. ¡°Why is that? What¡¯s wrong? I haven¡¯tmunicated in a while.¡±


    That got a long sigh from Harvey. ¡°I heard from one of The Coge¡¯s cameramen, you know Andy?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know that guy,¡± Giselle snapped immediately. after all, she was a bit curious about Andrew. but didn¡¯t have the courage to just send a message asking how he was doing or about the wedding that he as the groom didn¡¯t attend.


    ¡°Andy said that since the wedding day, Andrew¡¯s whereabouts have been unknown.¡±


    Giselle was silent, staring at Harvey without blinking.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if it has to do with a father being betrayed by his son, or if it¡¯s Andrew who chose to step aside.¡±


    ¡°Then the job?¡±


    Harvey chuckled. ¡°You forget, The Coge is still owned by his father. Andrew was asked to carry on but that doesn¡¯t mean it was handed over.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Giselle looked uneasy. ¡°So¡­ what happened with Andrew?¡±


    ¡°How would I know!¡± snapped Harvey. ¡°Why don¡¯t you find out, you still have the number, right?¡±


    Giselle hesitated to reach for the cell phone in her bag. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be awkward if I called him? After all this time?¡±


    Harvey shrugged. ¡°That¡¯s up to you. Obviously, I can only tell you if Andrew is missing. The rest is up to you. I have nothing to do with your rtionship. Just a suggestion, if you consider Andrew a friend, ask him how he¡¯s doing. We never know what¡¯s really going on, do we?¡±

 [71]

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to meet you here,¡± said Fania with a super duper happy face. Aside from the fact that the event went well, the guests almost all took part in the auction, and the money in her donation ount had reached its target. It was even more than she could have imagined for this charity night.


    ¡°SEO CEO sent us to take part.¡± Giselle smiled kindly. To her surprise, the originator of this charity night was someone she had known before; Fania Langham. All Giselle knew was that this night was a charity event that SEO and many other businesses involved in the entertainment world usually participated in. It was also not umon for dignitaries to participate as the charity event was organized to provide aid to disaster victims in the ASIA region. Along with donations, a rare jewelry auction was also held here.


    Justin was eyeing a beautiful red stone ne. Giselle, who was watching from a distance, already felt that the ne would be very beautiful on the right person. Justin said he would use it on the night of the show in the final year of SEO. Although she wanted to ask more questions, Giselle had already been asked to leave. Understandably, Justin was not a person who was willing to wait for the auction process which was certainly crowded.


    ¡°Yes, I think tonight¡¯s auction also has many amazing collections.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Giselle still put on a friendly face. ¡°I apologize for not being able to attend your wedding. And I congratte you on your marriage.¡± Giselle extended her hand which was immediately greeted by Fania¡¯s beaming face.


    It had already been two months since the event had taken Centralia¡¯s public domain by storm. Ah, it wasn¡¯t just Centralia that was surprised by the end of the event, but almost the entire country. No one expected the bride and groom to be different from the invitations that had been distributed.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Fania said still with her big smile. ¡°It was full of drama, but at least I¡¯m happy. Very happy.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that.¡± Giselle nced slightly at her friend who seemed to be taking it all in stride, as if their conversation was nothing more than idle chatter. Even Harvey¡¯s face showed boredom as Giselle lingered with Fania. ¡°You don¡¯t want to say congrattions? Neither of us can attend the party, right?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Harvey chuckled softly but extended his hand. Forced. Which was met with a forced gesture from Fania as well. ¡°Congrattions,¡± Harvey said.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± That was all Fania said. Then the link of their hands was immediately unraveled. But since Giselle was still there, she still shed a smile to make a friendly impression and as the host, she weed the invited guests well. ¡°Please enjoy the event. I guess you¡¯re looking forward to taking the ne home, right?¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°My boss, if he has a wish, he can¡¯t be prevented no matter how much it costs.¡±


    Fania nodded in understanding. ¡°Sometimes, we do have to pay a high price for something we¡¯re really aiming for.¡±


    Feeling quite strange about Fania¡¯s remark, Giselle looked at the pretty girl wearing a calf-length skirt,bined with a milk chocte shirt that actually made Fania¡¯s skin even more brilliant. Not to mention that her slightly reddish hair was done up in a neat bun. It gave the impression that Fania could attract attention even through the simplicity of her appearance. This was in stark contrast to the invited guests, most of whom were quite excited about their appearance and make-up.


    As public figures who receive a lot of attention, both Giselle and Harvey should be able to adjust their look both in formal and informal events. Don¡¯t overdo it with the mor that gives the impression of excess but also showcase the charm they have. Like tonight, they stole all the attention.


    Thetest dresses by the famous boutique; Long John, as their main sponsor for the next month, managed to draw admiration and many people were looking for what they were wearing tonight.


    ¡°Do you have time, Giselle?¡± asked Fania just before she left Giselle and Harvey.


    ¡°I think there is.¡± Giselle frowned slightly. Feeling strange about Fania¡¯s question just now.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to talk. Maybe an hour after the show?¡± Fania looked thoughtful before continuing. ¡°You don¡¯t mind waiting?¡±


    ¡°No problem. I think I need to talk to you too.¡±


    Fania¡¯s smile returned. ¡°Very well. Shall we meet again in the west wing? I have a ce where we can talk.¡±


    Giselle nodded approvingly.


    ¡°But I hope it¡¯s just the two of us. No one else because what I want to talk about is not something that can be publicly known.¡± Fania¡¯s eyes nced slightly at Harvey who seemed to be rolling his eyeballs in annoyance.


    ¡°I¡¯m not interested in your chatter, by the way.¡± Harvey waved a hand. ¡°If you want to talk now, go ahead. I don¡¯t care.¡± He walked away. Making Giselle even more astonished.


    What exactly is Fania and Harvey¡¯s rtionship? Why do they seem to be enemies?


    ¡°Forgive Harvey. I think he¡¯s a little tired,¡± Giselle said, trying to break the ice. she would find outter. But in front of her, Fania and what she wanted to talk about was far more important. Feeling a connection with a figure whose whereabouts were suddenly unclear; Andrew Kingston.


    Let¡¯s hope Fania can answer all of Giselle¡¯s curiosities.


    It¡¯s been almost two months and Giselle hasn¡¯t heard anything from him at all. And it seems only right that they talk, right?


    ¡°Have you tried contacting her?¡± Harvey asked once. Right when they were enjoying a short vacation before starting their shooting schedule in a different ce.


    ¡°I did,¡± Giselle said listlessly. ¡°But there was no reply at all. I¡¯ve also tried calling him, but it¡¯s only connected to the operator.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my God.¡± Harvey sighed softly. ¡°I have a bad feeling about this, Giselle.¡±


    ¡°Can you not scare me all the time?¡± asked Giselle as she nced exasperatedly at Harvey. Her best friend even looked rxed after saying such horrible things earlier? Seriously!


    ¡°I¡¯m telling the truth, you know.¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°Hanry Kingston¡¯s influence is not just any influence. That marriage was canceled and tarnished his name so badly. Have you ever wondered how that selfish old man would have felt if he¡¯d been betrayed?¡±


    ¡°Never mind.¡± Giselle waved it off immediately, not wanting to hear any more of Harvey¡¯s assumptions and bad thoughts about Andrew¡¯s whereabouts. Up until now, Giselle had no idea where he was.


    ¡°I hope he¡¯s okay, as annoying as he is,¡± Harvey said, putting down his soda can. ¡°He¡¯s a good guy.¡±


    Giselle agreed with Harvey this time.


    And now, just in case Fania knew a little about Andrew¡¯s whereabouts. If Andrew hadn¡¯t backed out or run away like the media was talking about, Fania wouldn¡¯t have had the joy of marriage.


    That¡¯s right.


    Giselle believed Fania had more information. And she hoped that she could at least get rid of the anxiety that had been building up for a while about Andrew. She hoped he was okay. As a good friend, that wasn¡¯t unusual, was it?

 [72]

    ¡°Like Andrew said, you¡¯re a chocte fanatic,¡± Fania said as she pulled out one of the dining chairs. She smiled too broadly. In her hand, a bouquet of flowers that she had probably just received on the way to their appointment, was ced unceremoniously. She nced around a little in case someone was following. But when it felt safe, he let out a long sigh.


    ¡°Andrew has a lot to say about me, apparently.¡± Giselle chuckled. ¡°I didn¡¯t know what you¡¯d like, so I ordered a few things from the menu. Do you mind?¡± She set down her mug of hot chocte. While waiting for Fania to arrive, there was no harm in thepany of her favorite drink.


    After all ¡­ the main menu has not been brought out by the waiter.


    Fania shook her head quickly. ¡°I am indeed hungry. I don¡¯t think finishing all your orders tonight will be a problem. I need more energy.¡±


    Giselle still had someughter left on her face. ¡°Hosting an event like this is quite draining.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Fania reached for her drinking ss. She downed it until there was no water left in it. Pouring back the contents so that it could apany her mealter. ¡°But the end of the show was already very satisfying for me.¡±


    ¡°Thank goodness.¡±


    ¡°Shall we eat before we talk?¡±


    ¡°I guess so.¡± Giselle agreed with Fania. Not long after, all the dishes Giselle had ordered were served at this sizable table. Since the west wing was a fairly private space, Giselle was at least rxed about the food. After all, this star hotel restaurant¡¯s cuisine was enough to whet her appetite.


    Most of the topics they talked about were about the auction and the guests. There were also political issues and Miss World activities because Fania had been a part of them. Even though she was only a guest speaker, the event was not forgotten.


    ¡°The menu you ordered, I liked almost everything. Thank you,¡± Fania said quietly. She wiped the corner of her lips with a tissue in case there was any spice left.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you like it.¡± Giselle smiled cheerfully. ¡°And at least, we¡¯ve regained our strength.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Faniaughed. ¡°Um¡­ where does this story begin, huh?¡±


    Giselle knew that they were getting to the heart of the matter. She straightened her back slightly, beckoning the waiter to tidy up the te that had no more dishes left. Recing it with the dessert she had ordered earlier. Just like her favorite; chocte.


    ¡°Before you tell me, is Andrew doing well?¡±


    That was met with an inexplicable stare in response. Fania seemed at a loss for an answer, sighing softly. Slightly massaging her temples, she hesitated to answer Giselle¡¯s question.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Ourmunication was cut off a month and a half ago.¡±


    Giselle looked surprised. ¡°Howe?¡±


    ¡°I myself didn¡¯t expect that what I thought was a joke from Andrew, he did. he really did it until I couldn¡¯t move.¡±


    ¡°Recing her with your lover?¡±


    Fania nodded weakly. ¡°Do you remember the SEO show with Harvey as the main star?¡±


    For some reason, the way Fania mentioned Harvey¡¯s name gave the impression of dislike. There was a heavy tone as well as an eagerness to get rid of the topic but obviously, the thing to talk about started there, right?


    ¡°Yes. At that time Andrew gave us an invitation.¡±


    ¡°I asked him to see you. Not to say goodbye. Not at all. Rather, I wanted a moment where we were released from our suffocating shackles.¡± Fania looked downcast. Her shoulders were shaking slightly as if she was holding back tears.


    And that drew Giselle¡¯s sympathy. She came closer, gave a gentle touch to the shoulder of the woman she had heard so many times, and took a deep breath.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure, back then Andrew told me a lot about us. Including that damn arranged marriage, right?¡±


    Giselle nodded.


    ¡°At the very least, you know I didn¡¯t want the marriage to exist. Andrew is the same way. We have our own lives, which it would be ridiculous for our parents to interfere with so deeply. If there was a good reason, I might still consider it. But this is business?¡± Fania clenched her hands into fists. She clenched her jaw tightly. ¡°I can¡¯t get over how our parents view things. It¡¯s so conservative.¡±


    Giselle chose to remain silent because at this moment, Fania was pouring out what was the biggest obstacle in her life. Even though she¡¯s been through it, it¡¯s not easy to forget and take lightly.


    ¡°After meeting you, Andrew was injected with great joy. He told me a lot about you and¡­¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a n that I think is crazy. I didn¡¯t want to hear anything he said because I couldn¡¯t believe he could think of such a thing.¡±


    ¡°What is he nning to do?¡±


    ¡°Run away.¡± Fania grinned amusedly. ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡°You two ran away?¡±


    ¡°Oh it¡¯s not that easy, Giselle.¡± Faniaughed. ¡°Do you think it would be easy to just let the two of us go, considering who¡¯s behind us?¡±


    Giselle joined in theughter atst. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t interrupt your story anymore. I was curious about Andrew¡¯s news but I guess, the story behind your marriage doesn¡¯t matter for me to know, right?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Fania smiled. ¡°Who knows, what actually happened to us might change your perception of Andrew.¡±


    ¡°What does that mean?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°A month into our wedding preparations, nothing had changed. Everything was normal. I thought that his escape n was just an afterthought. I also felt that there was no way Andrew would dare to do that. at the same time, I was heartbroken. I really felt that no one supported me at all. My boyfriend, Sean, you know, is now my husband. He himself didn¡¯t know what to do. He couldn¡¯t override all the decisions that had been made. Moreover, my mother is not ying around with threats. I¡¯m sure Sean is just as miserable as I am.¡±


    Fania sighed for a moment. She wet her throat with a ss of water. When she had enough, she continued speaking. ¡°My mother made a frightening threat to Sean. I didn¡¯t expect her to be so heartless to the man I love just for the sake of her ambition. What Sean has, built, worked for, and strived for all his life is threatened. Do you know how I felt?¡±


    Giselle gave another gentle stroke in sympathy.


    ¡°Yes, I agreed for the wedding to take ce. Blinded my eyes and heart to Andrew¡¯s ns. And closed off all ess to no more thoughts of Sean. I really was like a stupid robot. I thought, when I agreed to the wedding, Andrew was angry. Apparently not. He said, I knew this would happen. But calm down, I need time to think. We¡¯ll get out of this mess soon.¡±


    Fania raised her eyes. Staring intently at Giselle. ¡°He¡¯s actually realizing his n. Reced himself with Sean. Changed all our marriage papers to make it legal and religious. Our parents couldn¡¯t do anything about the n, which I guess happened without any constraints. I¡­ I really didn¡¯t expect it but on the other hand, I¡¯m happy.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s at least something Andrew can do for you, right?¡±


    Fania shook her head. ¡°He¡¯s doing this for himself, too. Iter found out that his mother, who is the main obstacle to Andrew stepping free, fully supports what Andrew is doing.¡±


    ¡°But isn¡¯t¡­ her mother in a bad way?¡±


    Fania nodded. ¡°You were right. I saw her at the hospital. His psychological state is somewhat disturbed. Mr. Hanry really doesn¡¯t mess around with punishment.¡±


    ¡°And Andrew?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s fine, it¡¯s just that it¡¯s not time for him to reappear. His messagest time was that he wanted to start over. Including the rtionship with you.¡±


    Giselle was still not satisfied despite the relief that infiltrated her heart. ¡°I can¡¯t see him?¡±


    ¡°I told you from the beginning, right? Ourmunication ended a month and a half ago. I¡¯ve asked my people to look for her but to no avail.¡±


    Giselle sighed as she massaged her temples. ¡°That doesn¡¯t show any progress. I want to know the real news. It¡¯s not impossible that Andrew¡¯s father did something bad, right?¡±


    ¡°Are you worried about him?¡±


    ¡°If not, why would I listen to your love story that ends sweetly like a children¡¯s fairy tale?¡± asked Giselle with a sneer.


    ¡°Calm down.¡± Fania smiled meaningfully. ¡°I¡¯m sure Andrew is fine, and when the timees, he¡¯ll show up. The person he¡¯ll meet first will be you, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyeballs rolled in annoyance. She wanted to leave this ce immediately.


    ¡°because you made him make that crazy decision back then.¡±

 [73]

    Harvey sighed softly, not knowing how many times he had nced at the clock on his left arm. His lips were dry from all the impatient clucking as his eyes continued to focus on the corridor where Giselle had disappeared. No. Literally, Giselle didn¡¯t just disappear like the earth had swallowed her up, but she met and talked to Fanny.


    Some might argue that Fanny is a good girl. But for Harvey, he no longer trusts what is part of his past. However, somehow the trust he had for Giselle and the people around him surprised him. Let¡¯s just say that he was singling her out when her crisis of confidence disappeared, but how could he give her that trust?


    ¡°What are they talking about? It¡¯s taking so long!¡± grumbled Harvey impatiently. And as soon as his eyes caught Giselle¡¯s figure, he unconsciously smiled at the corners of his lips. Actually, Giselle didn¡¯t ask him to wait, it¡¯s just that, besides being curious, Harvey is also a little worried because Giselle¡¯s condition has been a little worryingtely.


    And he knew¡­ the origin of why the girl looked different from before.


    ¡°Are you waiting for me?¡± asked Giselel unexpectedly. She immediately greeted Harvey, who pursed his lips but didn¡¯t re in annoyance like he usually did when Giselle embraced him. ¡°Didn¡¯t I ask you to go home first?¡±


    ¡°I should wait for you with curiosity?¡± Harvey chuckled in displeasure. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be in the car with Brina anyway. My ears are burning from her babbling about my unorthodox prohibitions.¡±


    ¡°You really need to cut down on soda, Harvey.¡±


    Harvey rolled his eyeszily. ¡°I think talking to the wall is useful for you, Giselle.¡±


    Both thenughed.


    ¡°Did you get a satisfactory answer?¡± asked Harvey as he stepped out of the banquet area. Although there were still a few guests left, at least the two of them didn¡¯t have to do much socializing and put on their best smiles. Even so, some of them still greeted Giselle and Harvey and made them both manage to pause for a moment.


    Just reply to their greetings and engage in a little small talk.


    ¡°I think we should have gone through the back door earlier,¡± Giselleined between her cute smiles. Her eyes nced at Harvey, who was still chatting about SEO models and the progress of thepany Justin was leading.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Harvey said in a half-whisper. ¡°Come on, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any need for hospitality after this. Brina has asked Nico to pick us up in the lobby. Hopefully we won¡¯t have to wait for him.¡±


    Giselle nodded happily. She immediately excused herself from the business of the embassies of other countries that came to this auction. At the very least, Giselle should stick to the principles of politeness and friendliness in dealing with many guests in public ces. As a public figure, such things are inevitable not to do.


    ¡°Finally,¡± Giselle said as she leaned tiredly on the back seat. The car Nico was driving arrived on time. They didn¡¯t have long to wait and Nico had already lectured them for being at the auction for too long. They had to rest immediately because thetest schedule had be unavoidably entangled. But most of all, Nico was annoyed that he had to pause his free time; ying games.


    ¡°Instead of pouting your face, how about a steak?¡± Harvey offered Nico before going back to grilling Giselle for her question earlier, yet to get an answer.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten dinner yet?¡± asked Nico with a worried look in his eyes.


    ¡°I did,¡± they both said in unison. ¡°This offer is only for you, Nico. Do you want it?¡± Harvey asked, raising his eyebrows. ¡°While she¡¯s eating, we can talk over a cup of coffee. Maybe?¡±


    Giselleughed finally at Harvey¡¯s n. ¡°I agree. When we get back to the apartment, it¡¯ll be hard to talk freely. Maybe leavingte won¡¯t be a problem. We got what Justin asked for, right?¡±


    Harvey snapped his fingers. And Nico eventually gave up because their offer wouldn¡¯te twice. Besides being busy, the noisy duo was too much trouble not to fulfill his request. Besides, during this ratherte dinner, they were under Nico¡¯s supervision. Nothing would happen.


    So here the three of them were. Where Nico was at another table, enjoying the best that this steakhouse that is quite famous for its mushroom sauce can serve, while Harvey and Giselle chose to eat other lighter snacks. And slightly separated themselves from Nico even though they were only one table away. Using the excuse that there were too many dishes for Nico at the table, Nico finally agreed. Although she was forced to.


    ¡°Stay away from me,dies. You can do whatever you want if I¡¯m not watching!¡± Nico said sternly. Already like Brina but still far behind but at least, they both obeyed Nico¡¯s words.


    ¡°So how was it?¡± she asked as she leaned backfortably. The atmosphere in the restaurant tonight was quite quiet but made the tranquility he longed for. The aroma of savory spices and grilled meat did make anyone appetite for that heavy dish but¡­ Harvey could hold himself back.


    ¡°Fanny doesn¡¯t know where Andrew is either,¡± Giselle said with a long sigh. Her face, which had been rather cheerful and happy, was suddenly somber and sad. Her eyes were also no longer looking at whatever was served in front of her, even though there was chocte pudding and iced chocte to apany her tonight.


    ¡°At all?¡± asked Harvey with narrowed eyes.


    ¡°That¡¯s what he said. Thest time they were in touch was about a month ago.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why I can¡¯t believe he would say that.¡± Harvey looked sympathetically at Giselle. Aside from the fact that she knew Andrew only in passing, the news about him bothered her. The step Andrew had taken was very, very brave. Moreover, it disappointed two parties with considerable influence.


    Langham and Kingston. Not as trivial a name as it might seem, who easily epted what Fanny was doing with her lover.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you trust him?¡± asked Giselle with a searching look. ¡°I also get the feeling you know him better than what I know, right?¡±


    Harvey chose to raise his soda ss. Shaking it gently as if the soda was a wine that could rx him a little. But really,pared to wine, Harvey preferred soda. ¡°I do know more than you do but it¡¯s not the time for us to discuss that, is it?¡±


    Giselle was silent but soon nodded in affirmation.


    ¡°Did Fanny mention anything else because of Andrew¡¯s unknown whereabouts?¡±


    ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    Harvey let out a long sigh. ¡°Maybe he assumed that someone had done something bad to that guy?¡±


    Giselle squealed in disbelief. ¡°You say things that make my heart beat unsafely.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really worried about her, eh?¡±


    Giselle snorted in displeasure. She quickly grabbed her ss of iced chocte. ¡°You know, he¡¯s a good guy. You recognize that too, right?¡±


    ¡°Indeed.¡± Harvey grinned. ¡°That¡¯s why I asked you about it.¡±


    ¡°Not if that¡¯s what you want to know. Fanny is just saying, what Andrew has done up to this point, everything especially with regards to marriage, is because I pushed him. But as long as I remember the conversation with herst time, where you were the center of the SEO, oh¡­ don¡¯t give me a judgmental look. I already apologized foring home early. I was sick anyway,¡± Giselle was willing to give in on this. what she said wasn¡¯t a lie either.


    ¡°I know,¡± Harvey said with an amused giggle. Teasing Giselle is an unavoidable pleasure.


    ¡°I never encouraged him to do anything dangerous.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you won¡¯t, Giselle. Take it easy.¡±


    ¡°Fanny just said that if it¡¯s time for Andrew to reappear, the first person she¡¯ll call is me.¡± Giselle let out a long sigh. Her face looked much more somber than before.


    ¡°That means, Fanny believes that Andrew is okay. Even though he disappeared without any news, and you couldn¡¯t reach him with many messages and calls, but I think we should trust Fanny¡¯s words this time.¡± Harvey patted Giselle¡¯s shoulder lightly. ¡°Andrew is somewhere we don¡¯t know where. And when the timees, I think it will be after all the gossip and news has died down and, most importantly, the anger of the two families who are not working together.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, they were married under forced conditions. What¡¯s so good about getting married and living a new life with someone you don¡¯t want? I mean, even if they know each other but if their hearts don¡¯t want them to be with each other, what will their lives be like?¡±


    Harvey smiled cheerfully. ¡°At least they¡¯re free of that, right?¡±


    For Harvey¡¯s words this time, Giselle agrees.


    ¡°So¡­ all you need to do is wait, Giselle. Until Andrewes back into your life.¡±


    Giselle scowled in displeasure. ¡°You need to underline something, Harvey. I¡¯m quite happy that he doesn¡¯t bother me with multiple deliveries. There¡¯s an unwritten debt every time he gives me a gift. You think I ept them with open arms? I feel burdened, too. I can¡¯t repay him a single thing.¡±


    Harvey nodded but his smile continued to be engraved.


    ¡°And as long as he doesn¡¯t give me a lot of deliveries, I feel quite relieved.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯d better stop worrying then,¡± Harvey said in a thoughtful voice. He takes a sip of his soda and nces over to see if Nico has finished his dinner.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Giselle stood up. ¡°I won¡¯t worry about it anymore.¡±


    But that was met with an amused giggle from Harvey.


    ¡°Can you stopughing?¡± Giselle scolded.


    ¡°When did Iugh?¡±


    ¡°Since earlier!¡± Giselle shot Harvey an annoyed look.


    ¡°Where is it!¡± Harveyughed even more. ¡°Never mind, admit it. You worry about her far more than you can put into your mouth. That¡¯s okay. That¡¯s good. It¡¯s better than wishing for a love that can¡¯t possibly be returned to you.¡±


    ¡°Smartass!¡±

 [74]

    A bouquet of red flowers in an epic arrangement was carried by one of the SEO staff. The staff¡¯s footsteps led to Giselle and Harvey who were reading some important parts before the shoot. For once, they are working together on a pretty big project. Being underwritten by a famous perfume and body mist brand in Centralia has made quite an impact on their work.


    What is clear is that this month, they don¡¯t feel too strangled by the crazy schedule.


    ¡°For me?¡± asked Giselle in a half-expectant tone. Usually¡­


    ¡°No, Miss Giselle. But this is for Miss Harvey.¡±


    Luckily, Harvey was not enjoying his soda. He was shocked beyond belief but immediately epted the sizable bouquet of flowers. ¡°Are you sure for me?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± the staff said innocently. ¡°There¡¯s a greeting card too.¡±


    Harvey immediately grabbed the card in the center of the bouquet. When he saw the shape of the writing and the name written on it, he was stunned. ¡°I have to give it back!¡± He immediately got up, not caring if his reaction made Giselle bbergasted.


    Harvey¡¯s back soon disappeared behind the door of the room where they were spending time. Giselle, who was now alone, could only let out a long sigh. Her brain was filled with memories of the posts that had bothered her in the past. Harvey might have been experiencing that; being sent by his increasingly crazy fans.


    It wasn¡¯t without reason that Giselle thought that way. Harvey¡¯s name was getting more and more famous, perhaps now his position was almost equal to Giselle¡¯s in terms of poprity but Giselle was not jealous. She really was. It didn¡¯t ur to her at all to have such strange feelings. In fact, she felt that Harvey deserved it after what the girl had gone through.


    But¡­


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I tell that guy?¡± Giselle said while scrunching her waist. Her eyes stared irritably at the shipment she had just received. ¡°I¡¯ve rejected him so many times, and he ignores me so many times? I don¡¯t want to bother him!¡±


    ¡°But everything Andrew sends is what you like, Giselle,¡± Harveyughed. ¡°Never mind. Enjoy it. It¡¯s good anyway.¡±


    The conversation identally came back to Giselle¡¯s mind. At that time, the gifts that Andrew sent were so intense when Giselle was in quarantine. Granted, Giselle didn¡¯t forbid Andrew from doing anything, but every day? Plus the most surprising thing; the night of the Miss Wolrd event that most knew, if Giselle received so many gifts.


    ¡°Do I have to step in and warn Andrew?¡± asked Brina in an exasperated tone. ¡°I even made a menu list and ordered it specifically for you to eat as part of your nutrition. It¡¯s not like Andrew sends food like this almost every day!¡±


    Giselle can onlyugh but can¡¯t resist whates her way. From food that looked simple but tasted great, to food that was being talked about by the public because it went viral and received massive promotion. Everything Giselle received with open arms and made her used to¡­ receiving deliveries from Andrew.


    Even so, there was a part of her heart that did not ept what Andrew did. but when presented in front of her eyes, Giselle could not just ignore it.


    And now, when all the things Giselle was used to suddenly disappeared, there was a loss that had settled in her heart. Without realizing it, of course, because every time someone mentioned it, Giselle was suddenly irritated. Annoyed. And uneptable. making some people choose to be casual, no longer mentioning the post or Andrew Kingston¡¯s name in their conversations.


    ¡°How long has it been since I¡¯ve heard from him?¡± asked Giselle absentmindedly, reaching for the phone on the table, her eyes now filled with the chat history she had ignored. ¡°I¡¯m not one to worry about personal matters but he was a nice guy. I guess it¡¯s only natural that I¡¯d miss him, right?¡± she said in her own monologue. she stared at Andrew¡¯s profile which only showed the man¡¯s face from the side.


    Nothing had changed from thest time he looked at the photo. If the timing was right and the feeling was not wrong, this situation had been going on for almost six months. He let out a long sigh. ¡°I think he¡¯s fine. There¡¯s no bad news and no news of people going missing and being found tragically.¡± Giselle really wanted to ignore this thought but it just came to her. considering that people with power can do whatever they want, right?


    ¡°It¡¯s about time I stopped worrying. She must have a better life of her own, and I think they both know what¡¯s best for them.¡± Giselle smiled slightly. Her hand pressed on the message¡¯s history for a while until the delete button appeared on the screen. ¡°It¡¯s better that we go back to the position of not knowing each other. that¡¯s better.¡±


    And¡­ erased.


    The message history was no longer stored in her chat memory.


    ¡°Alright, what else is my schedule?¡±


    ***


    Justin walked a little hurriedly. In his hand was the sketchbook he had just been working on and had given it the color and style he thought was right. He wasn¡¯t too concerned about Hans following him and the reports he was reading because he had something to do before Giselle flew to Yazeran. The photo shoot for thetestbel the beautiful model is working with takes ce there.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Usually he was free to visit any of his working models, including Giselle, and spend a little time with her. But since the girl¡¯s deration of feelings, Justin had begun to withdraw. not that he didn¡¯t want to give her much support, but he had to do this for Giselle¡¯s own good. so that she would understand what he felt for her.


    He doesn¡¯t see Giselle as a woman who can attract his heart, but a little sister who he must protect with all his heart. Harvey, on the other hand, was enough to upy his head because of his behavior that put Justin on the edge. If he didn¡¯t see the many benefits of Harvey¡¯s joining, he would have broken his contract with the model a long time ago.


    ¡°Giselle still in the training room?¡± she asked Hans without turning around.


    ¡°What©¤©¤yes, oh, but you didn¡¯t hear my exnation earlier?¡± Hans looked furious. ¡°This is rted to what you¡¯re nning, Justin!¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Justin turned, his steps growingrger towards the room he knew well.


    ¡°Boss,e on! You can meet Giselleter, I need your opinion before executing all these ns.¡± Hand looked frustrated with what his boss was doing.


    ¡°Listen,¡± Justin slowed his pace slightly. It was a relief to Hans that he didn¡¯t have to rush to speak. ¡°I trust you, Hans. Whatever you did must have been full of a lot of consideration. I need to finish thest execution and talk to Giselle before she goes to Yazeran. I won¡¯t have time to meet her there.¡±


    Hans gave up. Letting Justin just dart into the room where Giselle and Brina were. ¡°Even though I have selected several candidates for her. I don¡¯t think any of them meet her expectations.¡± He looked at the row of names and photos attached to it. ¡°Why does my boss have such strange standards for his models, anyway?¡±


    Meanwhile, Justin opened the door rather rudely. ¡°Giselle!¡±


    Feeling her name being called, Giselle turned her head. Stopping her steps around the red-carpeted stage and looking at the caller with wonder. ¡°Yes? You¡­ look strange, Justin.¡±


    ¡°Come here, I need your help.¡±


    Giselle frowned but couldn¡¯t argue, so she went downstairs and approached her boss. She watched intently as Justin opened each page of his sketchbook. Until¡­


    ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Giselle gaped. ¡°Isn¡¯t she¡­ that arrogant girl?¡±


    Justinughed. ¡°Cocky and sexy make for a fun coboration, right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy!¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ I think Harvey¡¯s vocabry will be more than just crazy!¡± Justin still didn¡¯t want to stopughing. ¡°But what do you think?¡± Once again he showed the photo of the pink-haired girl wearing SEO¡¯stest design. Her face was anything but friendly and her eyes stared back at Justin with a look of distaste. But above all, Giselle trusted her eyes and intuition. This girl has great value and is so seductive.


    ¡°As long as she can be friends with me and Harvey, I don¡¯t think it matters.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I was hoping to get out of you, Giselle.¡± Justin hugged Giselle immediately. ¡°Continue your training and don¡¯t bete for Yazeran. I can¡¯t monitor you there, I¡¯ll leave everything to Brina, okay?¡±

 [75]

    Seconds passed, days changed, weeks rolled by, and months also kept going until without Giselle realizing it, two years had passed. Maybe it¡¯s because she¡¯s so busy, maybe it¡¯s because she has so many schedules to do for SEO. Especially two friends who became familiarbeled as friends in Giselle¡¯s life, coloring what is her step now.


    ¡°S is scheduled to fly to Mn today,¡± Brina said without taking her eyes off the tablet containing Giselle¡¯s schedule. For this photo shoot, Brina apanied her. Usually, Brina was more often by Ruby¡¯s side. Brina¡¯s help for Ruby, who is still very new to the modeling world, is indeed very helpful.


    But it¡¯s also lucky for Giselle that she can be a littlex about what she eats in between shoots. Although Giselle knows that Brina¡¯s assistant is just as annoying as that woman.


    ¡°Definitely with Richard,¡± Giselle said with augh. She munched on the apple slices Brina had brought her to keep herpany on the way to Great Asia. For the next three days, Giselle was there. She had an important banquet to attend as the SEO representative.


    It didn¡¯t matter, as long as Justin paid him a high price and he had all the things he wanted in his apartment, he would do whatever Justin asked. Besides, she couldn¡¯t bear to interrupt Justin¡¯s fun with Ruby. Even though she¡¯s eager to interrupt S and Richard who, totally unexpectedly, have been in a rtionship for a long time.


    Urs Le, a model with fiery red hair, often scantily d and a sharp but seductive look in her eyes. She was the girl Justin found when he was eating alone at a fast food restaurant. If you remember their first meeting, both Giselle and Harvey couldn¡¯t stopughing. They couldn¡¯t believe how Justin could meet someone like S.


    Although Giselle admits, what S does for SEO is total. She doesn¡¯t even hesitate to leave her house, defy anyone who gets in the way of what she wants, and her stubbornness is the same as Giselle¡¯s. Which Giselle thought, S was arrogant and haughty. Unapproachable and aloof.


    Unfortunately, that assumption was broken when S showed a spoiled and childish nature. Harvey said, ¡°It¡¯s like I found a cute bunny who is ready to be a crazy monster if disturbed. If it was just one, maybe I wouldn¡¯tin. But this? My life is full of ferocious bunnies!¡±


    Suddenly, that remark made Giselle and Sugh.


    ¡°Justin, I think you should find another person for us. Someone we can confide in and grow up with. I can¡¯t believe this absurd Giselle can continue to act normal,¡± Harvey added with a pained look on his face.


    Know what Justin said in response?


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve found the right person. Aside from his maturity that can make you feel at ease, he¡¯s also I¡¯m sure verypatible with Lavender.¡±


    Giselleughed, S could only shake her head in wonder, while Harvey squealed with delight.


    And not long ago, the figure of Ruby Maeve appeared, which surprised Giselle. because that woman also diverted a lot of attention and Justin¡¯s gaze was full of love. It was different when Justin was with her. Giselle admits, Harvey also agrees with her, even S, who already has a partner, realizes that Justin is a very responsible man. Loving. Always caring for almost everyone in SEO. Provides the safest and mostfortable protection that almost all of them don¡¯tin about.


    However¡­ the man was unreachable.


    Therefore, when Justin had determined and set his heart on who to be with, everyone supported him. Including Giselle, although there is still a sense of unwillingness. But for the sake of Justin and Ruby¡¯s happiness, Giselle would not stand in the way. In fact, she will be the first shield for anyone who wants to see them destroyed. Even Harvey and S.


    ¡°I guess they¡¯re working on the target.¡± Brina chuckled. She put her tablet back in her bag. let out a long sigh and leaned backfortably. The trip to the hotel where they were staying temporarily took an hour. The location of the shoot was also quite far from the city center. But the banquet they were to attend was in the city. For that reason, Brina¡¯s choice of a hotel located in the center could be the most suitable alternative for them.


    ¡°What target?¡± Giselle was still enjoying her apple. ¡°You only brought this one ce?¡± she stared at the few remaining pieces of apple. ¡°I still want it.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You need to eat carbs, Giselle. Justin told me to make you gain a little weight.¡±


    ¡°I eat regrly, really.¡± Giselle looked at Brina intently. her eyes highlighted honesty because that was what she did. she realized that being busy was unavoidable but she could not neglect eating. Not only as an obligation to the body, but Giselle did not want to make people at SEO bothered by it. Especially her friends who would definitely not stay silent if she fell ill.


    Especially Ruby.


    ¡°But Justin won¡¯t be wrong in his judgment. I don¡¯t think my eyes can be deceived if you¡¯ve lost a bit of weight.¡±


    Giselle paused. ¡°I guess it¡¯s because I¡¯m busy at the boutique. You know, I¡¯ve got a lot of ordersing in that need to bepleted.¡±


    ¡°You are still a pir of SEO. You have to do what is your duty. I know it sounds selfish, but I think you realize Justin¡¯s role in your life.¡±


    Giselle smiled faintly. her eyes did not highlight annoyance or anger. ¡°I see. Okay, I¡¯ll try to eat more.¡±


    ¡°Did¡­ you leave the chocte behind during your busy day?¡± asked Brina cautiously. Although a long time had passed, the memory of chocte and Andrew, the man whose whereabouts were unclear until this moment. Not a single news about him appeared on social media. Even the person who hadst heard of Anderw had lost track of him. Also continuing her happy life; Fanny and her husband are happy because Fanny is pregnant.


    Giselle was happy about the news but tried to conceal that she still wanted to know, did Andrew show up in Fanny¡¯s life? Apparently not. It all really went by the wayside.


    ¡°Me? Break away from chocte?¡± Giselle burst intoughter. ¡°You¡¯re weird. Chocte is my life. Just so you know, as long as you¡¯re with Ruby, I¡¯m free to enjoy chocte. Although I realize, the portions are not as generous as before. Anyway, I find Ruby¡¯s chocte the most delicious. I don¡¯t know why her hands are so good at mixing chocte.¡±


    Brinaughed along. ¡°Thank goodness.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about me too much. I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m getting better by the day. You know, I feel like my life is perfect these days. I¡¯m grateful to be where I am now.¡±


    Brina nced at Giselle who was smiling widely. the look in her eyes was no longer sad because her heart had really been broken by Justin. And there was no longer a worried tone every time she thought about Andrew. Although the girl didn¡¯t want to admit it, but Brina knew, deep down Giselle had a lot of worries for Andrew.


    Giselle is just too hypocritical a woman.


    Never mind, that was his heart¡¯s business. What was clear was that now, the next three days would be as busy as what he was used to with the SEO models.


    ***


    ¡°Are you sure you can do it yourself?¡± asked Brina with an incredulous look. ¡°I¡¯d rather buy it for you.¡±


    But Giselle shook her head firmly. ¡°You¡¯ve been too tired all day. Besides, what I bought is private, right?¡±


    Brina chuckled in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re not usually so mature. You¡¯re usually happy to let me go down to the supermarket to buy sanitary napkins for you,¡± she said with a sneer. But Giselle was still Giselle, who would never admit to acting childish like that.


    ¡°You just rest. I also want to breathe the fresh air outside.¡±


    ¡°Be careful. You have to behave yourself while out especially since we don¡¯t know if there are paparazzi following you around.¡±


    ¡°Yes-yes-yes, I will remember this warning of yours.¡±


    If it was like this, there was nothing Brina could do but let the girl go. After all, it was only to the supermarket not far from the hotel where they were staying. She was too tired to follow Giselle even if she wanted to. It was true what the girl said, she needed to rest because her legs were a little sore due to her heavy luggage.


    Meanwhile, Giselle was happy to enjoy the less crowded streets. The night air was cold but also pleasant to enjoy with a cup of hot chocte. It looks like the choice of buying a cup of hot chocte and sitting on the park bench to the west of the hotel was not a bad choice.


    So that¡¯s what he did after buying his groceries. She doesn¡¯t really care if people stare at her with awkward smiles. Giselle responded with a cheerful smile so that no one wouldbel her an arrogant super model. Around her were several guards who seemed to be on guard in the park area. This means that the ce she chose for her mini m is quite safe. If anyone acted strangely or disturbed her, she could immediately shout for help.


    ¡°Um¡­ the sky is beautiful,¡± he said, looking up. The moon and stars were glittering up there, adding to the vibrant September night sky.


    ¡°Although the sky tonight is beautiful, but to me¡­ you are still the most beautiful star.¡±


    Giselle was stunned. Her hot chocte cup fell and almost hit the toe of her sandal. Fortunately, it didn¡¯t hit her foot. She felt like swearing violently at the man or stranger who was suddenly standing near her. wearing a closed hoodie and¡­


    ¡°Andrew?¡±


    The man smiled slightly. ¡°Long time no see, Giselle.¡±

 [76]

    ¡°You¡¯re quite reckless walking around this night alone. No one to keep youpany?¡± asked Andrew as he looked around. He still had to be vignt even though the ce where he met Giselle was far from people watching him.


    Ah¡­ she didn¡¯t expect what Andy said to be true at all. He shouldn¡¯t have doubted the people who were loyal to him, right? But the two years in exile made Andrew really careful in his behavior and steps.


    ¡°I guess it doesn¡¯t matter, does it?¡± Giselle smiled widely. Her warm chocte cup was back to its original shape. It was full and could be enjoyed with a sandwich that turned out to be quite delicious. Just for thepany of those who still wanted to enjoy the night. ¡°Anyway, Justin said I don¡¯t have to worry about people wanting to do me harm. Unless you suddenly show up without any notice. I think you¡¯re a ghost.¡± Giselle chuckled in annoyance.


    Which was responded to by a crispugh from the man who hadn¡¯t changed much from thest time Giselle had met him. Except that his appearance was much more human than before. That is to say, more expressive and less depressed.


    ¡°I¡¯m still alive, even if I¡¯m not, it¡¯s not a matter of me haunting you.¡±


    Giselle was lost in theughter that Andrew had created. ¡°You¡¯re still talking out of your ass.¡± she took a sip of her hot chocte. ¡°How are you? How did you know I was here? And I don¡¯t want there to be a coincidence that you live in this town. And all this time? Two years you just disappeared after causing an uproar in Centralia? I thought, you really vanished into thin air and never wanted to show yourself again.¡±


    Andrew was amazed by all of Giselle¡¯s narration, which seemed to be without pause. Moreover, the girl¡¯s eyes looked teary, her voice was also full of worry and anxiety, but it was covered by the arrogance of the way she spoke. Like the Giselle he remembered, she rarely made her point clearly.


    ¡°Are you asking me or bombarding me with your worries?¡±


    Giselle scowled in disapproval. ¡°Forget about my question earlier. I was just joking.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯ve already recorded all your questions in my heart. Do you still want to hear my answers, or do you want to forget them?¡± Andrew leaned back on the garden chair they were sitting on. A little distance away just to make sure Giselle wasfortable. Lest the excitement in his heart make him forget, Giselle is still the same as she was two years ago. unreachable.


    But seeing her wearing only a ck cardigan with a loose T-shirt and long culottes, as well as her appearance with no makeup at all, made Giselle exude an unusual beauty. Which makes Andrew actually not want to divert himself anywhere but to stare at the model whose name still tops the list.


    Speaking of models¡­ Andrew should be self-aware, right, who he is now?


    He is no longer the Kingston of luxury. He was just¡­


    God, just tonight give him the opportunity to quench his thirst to see Giselle in person. After all this time, he was only satisfied through the social media that he always followed. Whatever Giselle was doing, she knew and followed it. Although sometimes it was a littlete because Andy didn¡¯t alwaysmunicate with her. Andy was the only one whosemunication hadn¡¯t been cut off since he first decided on the craziest thing in life.


    What does he regret?


    Not at all. Instead, he felt more free and alive even though he had to go through several trials. And also moved ces and cities to avoid the pursuit of his father¡¯s men. He doesn¡¯t want to go back yet and if possible, he wants to continue living the life he chose this time. maybe because he was tired and no longer found traces of himself, his father finally stopped bothering him.


    But it left Andrew stranded in a city that didn¡¯t offer much in the way of luxuries. Wasn¡¯t that a stroke of luck for him? It should be, but simr to what Great Asia had shown, he was having a hard time finding a job. Especially with him choosing to keep his background under wraps.


    ¡°I was just wondering, how have yourst two years been, Andrew?¡± Giselle turned her head. And locked eyes with the man who had not yet taken his eyes off her. if Giselle could correct her assessment of the man, somewhat, there was a slight change. That¡¯s right. Andrew looked thinner than thest time Giselle remembered him wearing a zer or a fancy suit.


    But now?


    ¡°So far so good.¡± Andrew smiled, his eyes already averted as he felt it was no longer appropriate to stare at the girl he longed for. He swore to death he missed her but he couldn¡¯t quite put into words what was ruling his heart. It was stuck in his throat, blocking almost all of his breath, but at least¡­ he was happy. Giselle was just as charming as she looked on social media and the manymercials she starred in.


    ¡°What exactly happened?¡± asked Giselle curiously. Which made Andrew turn his head briefly.


    ¡°As reported, right?¡± Andrew nced at the clock on his left hand. ¡°It¡¯s quitete and I guess you must be expected by your assistant, right?¡±


    Andrew¡¯s words had some truth to them. ¡°You¡¯re right. I didn¡¯t realize thirty minutes had passed. I think Brina is starting to look for me.¡± Giselle sighed, grabbed her shopping bag, and prepared to return to the hotel.


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°Come on, I¡¯ll take you to the lobby.¡±


    ¡°You live around the hotel?¡±


    ¡°Of course not.¡± Andrew held out his hand. ¡°Your shopping bag, Giselle. Let me carry it for you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± prevented Giselle with a blush on her cheeks. She didn¡¯t want to risk Andrew knowing what was inside.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let myself walk by your side without helping at all. It¡¯s light, but at the very least, such a trivial thing relieves you a little.¡±


    Giselle shook her head immediately. ¡°I¡¯ll carry the shopping bags.¡± She moved ahead of Andrew, who she knew was only shaking his head in surprise but following her. Maybe it was just Giselle¡¯s feelings but she felt that there were several pairs of eyes looking at her with a curious look.


    ¡°You¡¯d better wear this.¡± Andrew took off the baseball cap he was wearing under his hockey cap. ¡°Hide your face a bit. I don¡¯t want any bad gossip about you tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Bad how?¡±


    Andrew smiled as he put the hat on Giselle. Choosing to concentrate because Giselle was staring at him uninterruptedly. As if waiting for Andrew to answer the question just now. ¡°Well, like this is better.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re avoiding some of my questions, Andrew,¡± Giselle said with a look of displeasure. ¡°Did I ask the wrong question?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°No.¡± Andrew still maintained his smile.


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you answer?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. You¡¯d better get some rest. I only know you¡¯ve been here for about three days, right? I guess your work schedule is very busy.¡±


    Giselle growled in annoyance but couldn¡¯t voice it for some reason. It was as if if if she kept asking, she was showing what she felt about Andrew. She was grateful, really¡­ she was very grateful to be able to meet Andrew here even though it was very surprising. What did he say? Did Andy tell you?


    ¡°You said¡­ Andy told you about my schedule while here?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Andrew paused for a moment as he watched Giselle¡¯s steps as she prepared to cross the highway. Although it wasn¡¯t too crowded, they still had to be careful. ¡°Come on, the lights are already giving us the signal.¡±


    Giselle obeyed Andrew who was one step ahead of her. It was as if the man was trying to protect Giselle. His gestures said so and somehow made Giselle feelfortable around him.


    ¡°I asked Andy about you once,¡± Giselle said quietly but then, her eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°You asked him to keep quiet? Not tell me about you?¡±


    Andrew didn¡¯t speak, just smiled faintly, which made Giselle even angrier.


    ¡°You¡¯re too much!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m taking care that everything goes as it should©¤¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t consider me your friend? It was stupid of me to worry about you, send you messages, even find out about you from people who might know you well! but what did I get? You shut off ess for me to know how you are?¡±

 [77]

    ¡°How long are you going to snuggle under the covers, Giselle?¡± Brina was already ruffling her loins in the doorway of Giselle¡¯s room. This was already the third time she had disturbed the girl who hade hometest night, making it impossible for her to sleep peacefully and enjoy the night without thinking; Giselle was in danger.


    But no. The girl went home with lots of smiles and joy. Chatting here and there about the activities they would be doing while in Great Asia. Including the banquet where Giselle was asked to meet the Prime Minister of a neighboring country who would be attending the banquet. Although it was a bit surprising, but seeing Giselle seem to have found a new spirit, Brina did not harbor any suspicions.


    Unfortunately, Brina was wrong. The joy disappeared along with Giselle¡¯s body, which was getting deeper into the nket.


    ¡°We have a photo shoot at one in the afternoon. The trip to the location will take a while, Giselle.¡± Brina sighed worriedly. She went over and sat on the edge of the bed. ¡°Your monthly guest ising?¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Giselle said quietly. ¡°It¡¯s not usually this painful, is it?¡± she gently lifted the nket. Her eyes looked up at Brina with a pain-filled look. Her cry also came out unbidden. ¡°I tried to act normal today but I think I need time.¡±


    Brina looked concernedly at Giselle. It was rare for the girl toin about her monthly sickness. But there had been a time when Giselle had struggled to deal with the visitor, and perhaps this was it. Not quite right, is it?


    ¡°You didn¡¯t bring any pain relievers?¡±


    Giselle shook her head weakly. ¡°I also didn¡¯t expect this guest to advance quite so far ahead of time.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get the medicine first. You prepare as much as you can. I¡¯ll help youter.¡± Brina smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯ve prepared breakfast. Or is there anything you want to eat?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Giselley back down. ¡°I just want to sleep.¡±


    It seemed like Giselle was really exhausted today. Should Brina tell Justin about Giselle¡¯s situation? She couldn¡¯t stay silent because it involved the work and professionalism of Giselle Namiozuka. Don¡¯t let the client think that she¡¯s stalling for time in this ce. The contract may be short, but what Giselle has to do is quite a lot and demanding. Brina thought, if it wasn¡¯t the amount stated in the contract, Giselle would have refused.


    Also¡­ the Chinese Prime Minister that Justin is targeting.


    But seeing how Giselle was in pain, made Brina heartless. In the end, she decided to call Justin and tell him how Giselle was doing. Justin was clearly a bit panicked and asked Brina to go to the hospital. but there was another voice that Brina thought, his advice was much more reasonable.


    ¡°Let Giselle rest. Prepare some hot tea with a slice of lemon I think it will make her feel better. Painkillers only work for a short while but what she needs is rest and don¡¯t overload her with work she should be doing.¡±


    It was Ruby¡¯s voice and Brina agreed to it, so what she did was to do Ruby¡¯s suggestion as best she could including talking directly to the clients they were working with at Great Asia.


    ¡°Oh, I hope Giselle is okay. I don¡¯t really understand the pain of monthly guests but it seems like it¡¯s excruciating.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m asking for a little leeway because Giselle can¡¯t be active today. Please forgive us, Mr. Sergio.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Brina!¡± On the other end, the man who was SEO¡¯s client this time chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m very grateful to be able to get Giselle¡¯s schedule and work with her. I wouldn¡¯t mind if there were dys rather than us forcing it to be fatal? Aside from Giselle¡¯s health too, I¡¯m sure it could affect the girl¡¯s mood. I don¡¯t want to take any big risks regarding the oue of the shoot.¡±


    Brinaughed softly. ¡°Thank you for your understanding.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have someone send Giselle a snack. We hope you ept this sincerity.¡±


    Brina could not say much more. there were still some other chats that were made between them but asionally Brina nced at Giselle¡¯s room. It was still the same as before she left, slightly open where the lights were still dim. It didn¡¯t matter if the sun was getting hot and quite annoying actually.


    ¡°Giselle,¡± Brina called softly as she opened the door. Her business done, she also had some painkillers in her hand in case Giselle wanted to take them. Also the warm tea with lemon that Ruby suggested.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I cane to the photo shoot this time.¡± Giselle had a haggard look on her face. Her face was slightly pale. ¡°I have to talk to Mr. Sergio.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already done it for you.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Brina smiled faintly. ¡°Who knows if it¡¯s better if you enjoy this warm tea.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Giselle smiled slightly and felt lucky that Brina was apanying her. But they were interrupted by the bell ringing, taking Brina by surprise.


    ¡°Do we havepany? Or did you order something?¡±


    Giselle looked guilty but then grinned widely. Her eyes still disyed the difort her body was receiving but¡­ the bell that rang once again made her ask Brina to open the door.


    ¡°I think that person is very impatient, Brina. Please open the door.¡±


    ¡°But who?¡±


    Giselle chose not to answer but gently pushed Brina¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°You owe me a lot of exnations, Giselle!¡± Brina grumbled. ¡°How could she tell me what room she was in? If there were paparazzi? There¡¯s news about her? Is it the same thing¡­¡± Brina finally opened the door. And to her surprise, the man was there.


    Smiling slightly, she greeted him kindly. ¡°Long time no see, Brina.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Brina lost her words. ¡°how did you¡­ get¡­¡±


    ¡°May Ie in? I was under the impression that Giselle was sick. Am I right?¡± Andrew was still trying to remain calm. Even though his head was buzzing with the many questions he wanted to ask. But no. He just needed to see and confirm for himself that Giselle was okay. It wasn¡¯t what he had suspected over the phone.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He dared himself, after saying many incantations for himself to re-establishmunication. He wanted to this morning, before he went about his activities amidst the hectic pile of financial reports of the tax consultant office near where he lived, he wished good morning and activities to the girl who had not left his heart. Unfortunately ¡­ the words were answered with a voice that made Andrew¡¯s heart stop.


    ¡°But how could you¡­¡±


    ¡°Please, Brina.¡±


    ¡°Oh, alright!¡± Brina rubbed her chest, trying to be patient, to let Andrewe in and see Giselle. Which afterward¡­ she had to massage her temples vigorously. Why did she have to be shown a romantic scene? But could this be considered romantic? Should she get out of this room? But¡­ what about Giselle?


    ¡°Argh! These guys!¡±

 [78]

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you busy?¡± asked Giselle as she ate the mushroom soup that Andrew had just brought. warmed for a moment on the micromave provided by the hotel. The room Giselle was staying in was well-appointed. Andrew shouldn¡¯t have been surprised by who was upying the room and how Justin, the SEO boss, treated his models, especially Giselle.


    ¡°I can take care of it quickly,¡± Andrew put down the cup of hot tea that Giselle had intended to enjoy in her room. But Andrew managed to force Giselle toe out to enjoy the dish he brought. Although he couldn¡¯t bear to look at Giselle¡¯s pale face but¡­ alone in a room? Ugh! ording to Andrew, it¡¯s far from what¡¯s going through his head.


    ¡°You said your boss was annoying.¡± Giselle was still looking at Andrew with a suspicious look. But her hands continued to feed on the warm soup that tasted quite eptable to her tongue and¡­ made her stomachfortable. Was it because she was hungry or was this soup delicious? I don¡¯t know. Giselle didn¡¯t want to care.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Andrew held out the tissue box. He wanted to get rid of the remaining soup at the corner of Giselle¡¯s lips but he suppressed that urge. He didn¡¯t want her to feel ufortable having Andrew around. ¡°Be careful eating, the soup is still a little hot, right?¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Giselle sneered. ¡°You said, enjoy it while it¡¯s warm. And now?¡± She took the tissue Andrew handed her. ¡°You¡¯ve changed your tune so quickly.¡±


    Andrew could only sigh softly, still smiling and not wanting to say anything that would make Giselle bare her fangs. Women and monthly guests are two things that are inseparable but can make the people around them feel like they¡¯re under a lot of pressure. Not to mention that their moods change so quickly that they don¡¯t even realize it, whether it¡¯s soaring or plummeting but making the surroundings ufortable. So it is better to respond with more patient actions.


    ¡°I asked for an afternoon pass and my boss approved it.¡± Andrew chose to enjoy the coffee that was in front of him. His heart felt so happy that what he brought, Giselle enjoyed without a trace. Plus, Brina had withdrawn from Giselle¡¯s room. The reason was that she had some impromptu work to do. At first, Giselle refused to be left alone with Andrew and the man also did not want to make Giselle ufortable with his presence.


    ¡°You guys,¡± Brina stared at the two fiercely. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to talk about the time that passed? All this time? Especially you, Andrew. Don¡¯t you have a lot to exin to Giselle? I¡¯m giving you guys as much privacy as possible. And incidentally, Giselle isn¡¯t feeling well and I won¡¯t let her out. Talk to you at any of the cafes around the hotel.¡±


    The two of them finally gave up. Which left Brina to leave them looking awkward.


    ¡°I was quite surprised to hear your story about working. An Andrew Kingston taking orders from someone else?¡± Giselle put down her spoon. She had finished eating the dish Andrew had brought. ¡°It was delicious, thank you. I liked it.¡±


    ¡°If you want to eat soup like this again, tell me. I¡¯ll prepare it.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°You¡­ made it?¡±


    ¡°I think these two years have turned me into quite a frugal person. I rarely enjoy a meal at a fancy restaurant anymore. You know, I support myself with a lot of work. Not with my, well¡­ I don¡¯t think I need to go on and on about it, do I?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes looked at Andrew with a twinkle of disbelief.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just soup like before, but some dishes I¡¯ve mastered as well. Once I can prepare fish with a spice-based flush seasoning, I¡¯m already a ssy chef.¡± Andrewughed, thinking it would divert Giselle¡¯s gaze from his. But s, it was a mere hope. ¡°Something¡­ wrong?¡±


    Giselle smiled broadly. ¡°I believe you can master the kitchen, though I can¡¯t trust the part where¡­ hey, are you the one who cooked all this? An Andrew?¡±


    ¡°You underestimate me, Miss,¡± Andrew spluttered.


    ¡°I¡¯m not underestimating you, Andrew. It¡¯s just that I can¡¯t believe you¡¯d actually do such a crazy thing. Let go of everything you¡¯ve ever held in your hands.¡±


    ¡°Is that selfish?¡± asked Andrew as he looked closely at Giselle.


    The one being stared at did not expect to be noticed so intensely. The man¡¯s eyeballs were ck, once filled with dominance although sometimes Giselle could see the tenderness they possessed. But now, the dominance was far less. instead, there was a warmth and loving attitude that radiated so much that Giselle didn¡¯t want to tear herself away from the way Andrew was looking at her.


    ¡°Others may see that I am helpless without my father¡¯s name. Others may see that I can¡¯t work for anything other than the ce where I live.¡± Andrew swirled his coffee slowly. He cut his gaze not because he wanted to. But he felt that enjoying Giselle¡¯s beautiful face for too long could make him forget himself.


    Forgot who he was.


    Which is nothingpared to Giselle who shines too brightly.


    ¡°But you seem to like your new life, don¡¯t you?¡± asked Giselle cautiously.


    ¡°Even though I had to work overtime on the few days before the end of the month, exhausted because I had so many reports to check and really, I realized the importance of an assistant during work. I¡¯m really grateful to Nindy for always helping me in the office.¡±


    Giselleughed at Andrew¡¯s words. ¡°I guess you¡¯re right. The busier we get, the more helpful an assistant can be.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I can¡¯t get an assistant that easily.¡± Giselle¡¯sughter rubbed off on Andrew. He prepared to tidy up the dirty dishes in front of him. ¡°Better already?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ I guess,¡± Giselle still maintained her smile. ¡°Just leave it there, there¡¯ll be a room attendant to tidy it upter, right? You¡¯ve already gone to the trouble of making me food, don¡¯t make me feel even more burdened by you seeming to patiently serve me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m notining about that. Just rx.¡± Andrew chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m d you can count on me.¡±


    ¡°I just said my stomach hurt when you called. I didn¡¯t ask you to make me this or that, let alone keep mepany until you had to sacrifice your working hours,¡± Giselle said with a chuckle. Her eyes no longer looked at Andrew¡¯s back who was wandering around in the living room of the hotel where she was temporarily staying.


    ¡°I know,¡± Andrew said. ¡°Hot chocte? I bought some ready-to-brew instant powdered chocte, but I tried it first. I think it tastes good. You must like it.¡±


    ¡°You may.¡±


    Left to his own devices once again, Andrew took possession of the area where Giselle usually prepared a drink for herself.


    ¡°Well, enjoy.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± The aroma of chocte wafted from her ss, wafting seductively. She wasn¡¯t sure if it tasted the same as the chocte she had enjoyed at some of her favorite cafes. But for Andrew¡¯s efforts, she was sure it tasted much better.


    ¡°I¡¯ll call Brina to apany you. I think she¡¯s in the cafeteria in the lobby. she wouldn¡¯t go far leaving you alone, would she?¡± Andrew got ready. Picking up the coat that he hung near the exit.


    ¡°You¡­ went back to the office?¡± asked Giselle with her hands squeezing each other. She was a bit indecisive but¡­


    ¡°Yes. As I said, I have a noon pass.¡±


    ¡°Have you taken any time off this year?¡±


    Andrew¡¯s brow furrowed deeply. ¡°Leave? For what?¡±


    ¡°Maybe¡­ on vacation?¡± Giselle cursed her incoherent remark. But what could she do? She wouldn¡¯t have spoken as bluntly as she wanted to if Andrew had been with her today. Complete with stories about her two years without her having to make them up herself.


    Although Andrew gave an outline, Giselle¡¯s curiosity was still high.


    Andrew¡¯s smile tugged slightly. his intention to take the coat, he abandoned it. He sat back down to face Giselle, who didn¡¯t want to look at him anymore. ¡°What do you really want? With me on leave? On vacation?¡±


    ¡°No. No. I can¡¯t possibly take a vacation with you. I¡¯m busy here, you know.¡± Giselle shook off her hand immediately. ¡°I¡¯m sick today anyway, right?¡±


    ¡°Alright. Then it doesn¡¯t matter if I stay, right? I have a lot of work to finish today.¡±


    Giselle bit the corner of her lip and nodded slowly. ¡°Thank you for worrying about me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± Andrew smiled widely. ¡°I¡¯m going.¡±


    Before Andrew could open the door to his room, Giselle got up from her seat. ¡°Andrew,¡± she called immediately.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Could¡­¡± her hands twisted around each other. ¡°Apany me today? You still have a lot of exining to do and I want you to say it without beating around the bush.¡±

 [79]

    ¡°So¡­ what have you been doing these past two years?¡± asked Giselle as she made herselffortable. The couch she was sitting on was already set for her to recline on while enjoying the show she had chosen to apany her. Of course, with Andrew not far from her.


    A few snacks were on the table, and surprisingly he somehow caught S. The fries with cheese seasoning that were so tempting were at the top of the list when she ordered some food.


    ¡°Working,¡± Andrew smiled slightly. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you thatst night? And just now, I mentioned about the work that I couldn¡¯t finish today.¡±


    Giselle chuckled. ¡°Oh, so you mind?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Andrewughed. ¡°Absolutely not.¡±


    ¡°Besides work, what else do you do?¡± asked Giselle in a slightly demanding tone. Her hand snatched one of the fries that were served. Complete with a sauce that she poured quite a bit of. The savory aroma of the potato tempted her. ¡°This looks delicious.¡±


    ¡°What, huh? Ran away I guess.¡±


    Giselle scowled. ¡°You don¡¯t want to tell me exactly why you left?¡±


    Andrew looked at the beautiful face that was thankfully not too pale. Although pouting, her mouth continued to chew the food in front of her. Perhaps because of her rather bad mood, Giselle forgot that she had already finished a portion of the mushroom soup she had brought.


    ¡°Besides Fania already has a lover, and there¡¯s no way I can love that girl, I feel that if the marriage happens then a lifetime of imprisonment is shackled to my life.¡± Andrew sighed softly. He felt that the bits and pieces of information about him over the past two years would not satisfy Giselle. The girl demanded that Andrew speak.


    Although she didn¡¯t have much to sayst night, at least Giselle entered the hotel lobby with a faint smile. A sign that Andrew still had a chance to talk again. Although he hesitated. Especially considering who he is now.


    He promised Giselle that after she finished her work, they would meet again, and at that time, Andrew would tell her what had happened. Unfortunately, it was all expedited because Giselle was sick. How worried Andrew was to hear Giselle¡¯sints on the phone. Even though he only wanted to say good morning as an outlet for his deep longing, he ignored the insecurity that was eating away at Andrew¡¯s body.


    ¡°I made ns quickly to have my marriage canceled. It wasn¡¯t easy,¡± Andrew chuckled. He imagined how much hassle and care he had to take, especially when it came to paperwork. He even asked for awyer as apanion so that he wouldn¡¯t take the wrong step.


    ¡°Sean initially refused to cooperate but this is a good opportunity, right?¡± Andrew smiled again. ¡°In the end, what God has joined together is hard to separate. The matter of cooperation between our families can continue without marriage anyway.¡±


    ¡°But Fania said, your mom¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re right.¡± Andrew handed me a ss filled with warm water. ¡°Your stomach is a bit morefortable. I don¡¯t really understand the pain you¡¯re experiencing but at least, I¡¯ve learned to understand if it affects your mood.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind me,¡± Giselle said as she epted the ss. ¡°I¡¯ve gotten better.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re sure¡± Andrew looked at Giselle in disbelief. ¡°But your face is still pale. If it hurts too much, let¡¯s go to the hospital.¡±


    ¡°Idiot!¡± Giselleughed. ¡°Continue your story.¡±


    Andrew, who was still unwilling to divert himself, continued to give Giselle an incredulous look. Given his past, it was hard to talk casually with this girl, not to mention that the wall Giselle had put up was too high for him to ovee. And now?


    ¡°My mom is one of the two main reasons I do everything. I don¡¯t care about the consequences because I can predict, at least¡­ my mom is still someone useful to the old man,¡± Andrew¡¯s tone seemed to tremble. His eyes were asionally closed with his hands clenched tightly. ¡°My mother told me that I should achieve my own happiness, not be shackled anymore. I¡¯ve done enough but it¡¯s never been worth it. So I thought, I should get out. If I¡¯m that valuable to Hanry Kingston, he understands what I want.¡±


    ¡°Have you met your mom?¡± For some reason, when ites to the woman who brought her child into this world, Giselle remembers her mother. How much she cherished and loved that woman even though for the rest of her mother¡¯s life, Giselle had to struggle. It was like her mother¡¯s breath was in every step Giselle took, but she had no regrets at all.


    Her mother has tried to give her the best life in her opinion. Although she is not rich, Giselle knows how hard and full of struggle her mother raised her. And as Giselle can imagine, a mother¡¯s love will not be interrupted until death separates. Even under great pressure, Giselle herself shuddered to hear the story of her mother Andrew from Fania.


    The news must have made Hanry Kingston furious. And the only person he could take it out on, was Andrew¡¯s mother. And she risked everything so that her son would live on his own terms, no longer under the control of someone who didn¡¯t appreciate him.


    ¡°We have. Wemunicate often, though it¡¯s limited. At least I know how she is now.¡± Andrew¡¯s smile rose uncontrobly. ¡°I¡¯m d she¡¯s okay. As she suspected, Hanry won¡¯t hurt her too much. Maybe the harsh words are toomon, although I can¡¯t stand it, but I¡¯m struggling.¡±


    Giselle looked at Andrew closely. ¡°What are you fighting for?¡±


    ¡°My mother¡¯s freedom.¡± She said clearly. ¡°I can¡¯t keep running away, right? There wille a time when I return but I need time. And when I show up, I¡¯ll make sure my mother is no longer in Kingston¡¯s clutches.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great!¡± Giselle pped her hands cheerfully. ¡°I¡¯m rooting for you then.¡±


    Andrew was stunned but before long, he wasughing. ¡°Thank you.¡± But Giselle¡¯s smile and cheerful demeanor were only temporary, which Andrew noticed. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± He approached. ¡°Your face is sullen again. I¡¯ve already told you the story©¤¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re avoiding me, right? You just cut off allmunication ess. I have no idea how your life is after what you did at the wedding. You think I¡¯m not worried?¡± Giselle chuckled in annoyance. ¡°You made all this up on purpose? Is there a special reason? Are you afraid that I¡¯ll talk to your father? How stupid of me if that¡¯s what you¡¯re expecting me to do.¡±


    ¡°When did I think of you like that, Nami.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes bulged fiercely. ¡°I told you I¡¯m not su©¤¡±


    ¡°But I like it. For some reason, in my eyes you¡¯re still a Nami. I¡¯m not.¡± Andrew shook his head firmly, indicating not to refute her words. ¡°Listen to me first.¡±


    Giselle snorted in displeasure. Her arms were folded across her chest. Her eyes highlighted the obvious dislike.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the Nami you lived with in the past that I remember, Giselle. But the Nami who reached out her hand in a friendly manner when she met me first. Maybe you don¡¯t remember, but I can¡¯t forget that day. As well as your words that sounded trivial but to me, they were one of the few motivations that could keep me up and going.¡±


    Giselle still hasn¡¯t dropped her upset attitude.


    ¡°You said that momentary pleasures are false. But what makes your heart feel happy and free is glory.¡±


    ¡°When did I ever say that?¡± asked Giselle curiously.


    But Andrew chose not to answer. ¡°During my exile, I moved here and there. Just like my jobs, most of them were taken within a short time limit. At least I was able to live off an ie that was¡­ well.¡±


    ¡°But you enjoyed it, right?¡±


    ¡°Not enjoying, but appreciating. What I¡¯ve done in the past two years is really from myself. I¡¯ve put in so much effort that sometimes I forget I have to eat and sleep.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re overextending yourself then.¡± Giselle stared fiercely at Andrew whoughed. ¡°I haven¡¯t forgiven you just so you know.¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, no problem. I will continue to apologize for my biggest mistake. But I have my own reasons why I don¡¯t want to reply to all your messages.¡±


    ¡°Did you receive it?¡±


    ¡°Obviously.¡± Andrew shifted his seat slightly. Even his hand, which could have been cursed to stay still, would have done so. Unfortunately, he really wished he could hold that hand. Giselle¡¯s soft hand that was now in his grasp. ¡°I really want to return it. But¡­¡±


    ¡°But?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to get involved before I¡¯m really ready toe back.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes blinked in confusion.


    ¡°Even though I broke today, but it was all worth it.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s worth it?¡±


    ¡°At least my longing is being channeled. I¡¯m not content to look at you only through advertisements or big billboards at some point. Or on social media.¡± Without caring if Giselle was angry, and looking at him with a look of hate and disdain, Andrew pulled Giselle into his arms. ¡°I really missed you. This numbness is suffocating, Nami.¡±

 [80]

    ¡°Are you feeling better?¡± asked Brina while giving a mischievous nce at Giselle who was still enjoying her chocte ice cream. Today, that¡¯s right¡­ especially today Brina gave so much leniency. Aside from making Giselle feel better, she also couldn¡¯t bear to see Giselle pouting again.


    Upon returning from the cafe in the lobby, oh¡­ you know, Brina wanted to go back to her room but she was self-conscious. The guest who came to visit today had a big role to y in Giselle¡¯s mood, though the girl refused to admit it.


    ¡°Chocte helps me get through the day,¡± she said, rubbing the corner of her lips where she felt a trace of ice cream. ¡°Are you alone? Did you finish your work?¡±


    Brina sneered. didn¡¯t Giselle know that doing a lot of work at a cafe table was hard enough for her? Not to mention that she sometimes had to refrain from talking on the phone at random. Who knows if someone might identally eavesdrop and turn it into valuable information? But for Giselle¡¯s sake, geez¡­ should Brina be rewarded for her generosity?


    ¡°I don¡¯t think Justin is putting too much pressure on me since it¡¯s the same time you¡¯re sick.¡±


    ¡°I can go back to work tomorrow.¡± Giselle also tidied up the snack wrappers scattered on the table. preparing to sleep because it was also gettingte. ¡°You¡¯ve already informed the team, right?¡±


    ¡°They said it was postponed for the next two days. Aside from the fact that you¡¯re not feeling too good, oh¡­ let¡¯s not pause on this. Justin himself asked for two days of rest, which means you should use tomorrow to rest.¡±


    ¡°But what about Mr. Sergio? I made him wait. You know, we also have professional limits.¡±


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t matter, Giselle.¡± Brinaughed.


    ¡°But I¡¯m fine. What do I do tomorrow? Stay in the hotel room? How boring.¡± She sniggered in displeasure. The table, which was a bit messy earlier, was back to being neat and clean. Although there were a few jars of chocte cookies, but at least the table was much better than when Brina came.


    ¡°You were inside the hotel earlier too, right?¡± Brina chuckled. ¡°Is it boring spending time together with Andrew?¡±


    Giselle rolled her eyes in annoyance. ¡°I¡¯d rather sleep than listen to what you have to say.¡± She headed for her room. She ignored Brina who seemed to be going back to work on her report. Bute to think of it, maybe her one more day of rest tomorrow could be used by Brina to loosen up a bit in terms of working on the report. Brina wasn¡¯t just an assistant, she was a jack-of-all-trades, and Justin relied on her.


    Once inside the room, hey down. The abdominal pain that had gued him earlier, which made him move so painfully, and it felt like he was breaking out in a cold sweat from the pain. This time it was much better and he was able to fall asleepfortably.


    The cell phone on her bedside table buzzed for attention. And when Giselle noticed it, her smile was drawn wide.


    [+6108***766]


    I just arrived at my t. Luckily my boss isn¡¯t in the office today, so there¡¯s not much work piled up on my desk. Are you better? How¡¯s your pain? I was looking for info, it seems that monthly pain is quite annoying huh?


    Without much thought, he replied to the message just now.


    [Giselle. N]


    Brina just got back. I guess a lot of work got to her. I¡¯m a bit sorry but what can I do? I don¡¯t really know how to help. My stomach is getting better. I guess chocte is the best option to calm this pain. Sometimes it¡¯s annoying, other times I guess I should be asked to rest in between the busy schedule.


    Giselle spent the rest of the night curled up under the covers. While ying with her phone, or asionally sitting up and leaning backfortably so that her stomach wouldn¡¯t hurt anymore, it was probably about an hour before the man on the other end decided to let her sleep.


    [Giselle. N]


    You know, I¡¯m still not allowed to do any activities tomorrow. As usual, Justin¡¯s a bit over the top about me being sick, but I¡¯m wondering what I¡¯m going to do tomorrow. I can¡¯t just stay in my room, it¡¯s so boring.


    [Mr. Secret]


    Great Asia has many ces you can visit, although it¡¯s not as big as the city of Centralia but I think you¡¯ll enjoy your time here.


    Giselle named Andrew like that for a reason. What the man had told her, a wish that was still on hold for some time before the man was ready to return, made her take the initiative tobel her contact like that. Andrew¡¯s profile picture was just a sign of the office where the man worked.


    Ah¡­ when she met Brina, she should have warned her assistant not to say a single word about Andrew¡¯s whereabouts. It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t trust the SEO people, it was just that Andrew had his own reasons for not wanting to return.


    ¡°Thest time I saw my mother, Hanry was still pressuring her quite outrageously. My mother rarely socialized and isted herself even more because of that old man. I¡¯m grateful that the pain she¡¯s experiencing hasn¡¯t been affected too much because of what I¡¯ve done. She was very supportive of me and had high hopes for me to live with the happiness I wanted. I also can¡¯t help but see the happiness Fania is experiencing.¡± Andrew smiled slightly. ¡°What do you think of my actions?¡±


    ¡°Brave and quite crazy,¡± Giselle replied with a crispugh. ¡°But I¡¯m sure the happiness you want can be realized. I¡¯m also d Fania is happy with her new family. I hear she¡¯s pregnant.¡±


    ¡°Thank goodness.¡± Andrew chuckled. ¡°But can I ask you a favor?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Giselle looked at Andrew intently. ¡°As long as I can help you, don¡¯t ever hesitate to ask. I¡¯ll try.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t trouble you too much, Nami. The words should be mine.¡± Andrew sighed softly. ¡°Um¡­ if possible, let no one else know about my being here.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re definitelying back?¡±


    ¡°To Centralia?¡±


    Giselle nodded immediately.


    ¡°I will. But I need the right time.¡±


    ¡°Is it back to Kingston?¡±


    ¡°You expect me to go back there?¡±


    Giselle blinked in confusion. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ your family, right?¡±


    They were silent for a while but then Giselle cleared her throat to break the silence. ¡°I don¡¯t know if what I said offended you but¡­ if you¡¯re not happy going back to them, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any need to go back. Why go back and still be treated the same way? It¡¯s better to live your life without their interference, right? You can still see your mother anyway, right?¡±


    Andrew nodded vaguely.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure during your two-year exile, you learned a few things. Just like I begged Justin for help even though I didn¡¯t know what would happen. If Justin had bad intentions back then, I don¡¯t think we¡¯d be in this ce.¡±


    The manughed. ¡°Your dark jokes are quite creepy, Nami. I just found out about this side of you.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°I¡¯m still not used to you calling me Nami. I feel like I¡¯m back in the days of living under glittering lights full of the smell of alcohol.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I apologize. I won¡¯t call you that anymore.¡±


    Giselle immediately shook her head in affirmation. ¡°I learned enough to get used to it, right?¡±


    The vibration of her cell phone interrupted Giselle¡¯s reverie. Andrew¡¯s message came back with lots of photos and links to destinations around Great Asia.


    [Mr. Secret]N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    I think you can visit one of them.


    Giselle smiled cheerfully, her hand smoothly typing the message again.


    [Giselle. N]


    I¡¯ll try to find out. I also need to improve my mood so that when I return to work, I don¡¯t waste this time off.


    [Mr. Secret]


    Just in case you¡¯re free until the weekend, I¡¯d like to take you somewhere. That¡¯s if you don¡¯t mind and your schedule is free. And don¡¯t force yourself on me.


    Giselleughed at that. ¡°Gosh, what a confident man.¡± But then, the girl pulled back the nket to sit morefortably. She typed in a reply message.


    [Giselle. N]


    I don¡¯t know, I can¡¯t be sure when I¡¯ll be free. You know, I was given a rest day tomorrow. I might be asked to go home at the end of the week. That means I¡¯m only free tomorrow. How did it go?

 [ending]

    The refreshing air immediately made Giselle spread her arms. As wide as possible. and as deep as possible to fill her lungs with plenty of air supply. the sky was clear today but the wind was soothing. The shady trees that stand almost on the edge of the road, slightly hide the beauty that exists. the river flow is clear, not too fast, and the banks are not steep, making it a destination to rx Giselle¡¯s choice.


    ¡°I feel like swimming.¡±


    Andrew chuckled, his hands struggling to carry a few things so that they could enjoy the riverbankfortably. But he didn¡¯t want to make Giselle help him. ¡°There¡¯s a sign prohibiting indiscriminate swimming. You can see it at the end.¡±


    Giselle turned her head to follow Andrew¡¯s direction. There were also several other visitors who tookfortable spots for them to upy. And none of them were swimming. Except for fishing, there was no prohibition on the notice board.


    ¡°The water is so clear.¡± Giselle adjusted her wide-brimmed hat. She still wore her sunsses to block out the sun.


    ¡°This river has different depths and a strong current in the middle. That¡¯s why visitors are prohibited from swimming. But camping, fishing, and boating activities are possible. But you have to register in advance if you want to go boating. There will be an apanying team.¡±


    Giselle frowned. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡±


    Andrew put up a set of tents and boxes of food supplies. There was also a portable stove and fishing tackle. ¡°Your safety is the most important thing I have to look after. Even though Justin isn¡¯t here, I feel like his eyes are everywhere.¡±


    Giselleughed at that. ¡°What do I need help with?¡±


    ¡°No need. You just sit down. I¡¯ll set up the tent soon and we can grill fish. I¡¯ve prepared a special for you.¡±


    Giselle pouted again. ¡°Why, anyway, can¡¯t I help? Am I too stupid to do something like this?¡±


    Andrewughed as well. He wiped his sweat-flooded forehead. His eyes looked at Giselle with a smile that he didn¡¯t want to get rid of yet. ¡°I want you to enjoy today, Nami. Your photo shoot tomorrow is going to be a long day, right?¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    A sizable tent had been erected beside the car as part of a sturdy buffer, just in case something got out of hand. But judging by the weather, there was no way it was going to rain. The sky was clear and cloudy, the sun was shining brightly, and ording to today¡¯s weather forecast, it wasn¡¯t going to rain. But Andrew still prepared the tent for Giselle¡¯sfortter.


    Giselle shrugged. In the end, she let Andrew do everything himself. Except when the stove was set up and ready to process the ingredients. Only then did Andrew make some concessions and the first dish Giselle made was a drink. A cup of coffee and a cold chocte to apany this beautiful afternoon.


    ¡°Ah¡­ the atmosphere is really exciting.¡± Giselle took a sip from her ss of iced chocte. ¡°And this chocte you brought me is really good. No less than the ones I usually drink.¡±


    Andrew chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s good that you like it.¡± He smelled the aroma of the coffee Giselle had made. ¡°It seems like this coffee has a pretty good vor.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°Are you insulting or praising? The coffee I just brewed is only ready-to-brew instant coffee. Your words sound annoying.¡±


    Andrewughed with excitement. ¡°I brought my fishing gear. Who knows, we might be lucky enough to get a shark here.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyeballs widened in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re¡­ serious?¡±


    Again, Giselle¡¯s words were met withughter and this time, Andrew¡¯sughter made Giselle wince. ¡°I almost took your words seriously.¡±


    ¡°Even if there were, it wouldn¡¯t be a river like this. The river is much bigger and more dangerous. The mouth of that river is obviously a vast ocean.¡±


    ¡°Never mind, I don¡¯t want to talk to you anymore.¡±


    Andrew shook his head in wonder. But before long, the fishing gear was set up on the riverbank. Giselle was no longer wearing footwear. asionally her feet sshed on the riverbank. The slightly cool water temperature made Giselle excited.


    ¡°If Harvey, S, and Ruby knew about this ce, I think they would love it.¡± Giselle continued ying in the water, not really caring that some of her pants were wet.


    ¡°Who are S and Ruby?¡± asked Andrew with a curious look. if Harvey¡¯s name hade out of Giselle¡¯s mouth, it wouldn¡¯t be unusual. but S and Ruby?


    ¡°You don¡¯t know them?¡± asked Giselle in astonishment. ¡°You said you follow me on social media. But you don¡¯t know these two?¡±


    Innocently, Andrew shook his head. ¡°The focus of my eyes is only you. I don¡¯t want to pay attention to anyone else.¡±


    Giselle spluttered. ¡°They¡¯re just like me. Justin¡¯s mainstay at SEO. You must know thest event SEO held?¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ just a glimpse, and I didn¡¯t know they were familiar with you.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s mouth was drawn wide. Her eyes closed as she looked up slightly, feeling the bright sunlight with a soothing breeze. It caressed a part of her face, slightly ruffling her flowing hair. She had taken off her sses, although she was a little afraid in case someone knew her identity, but¡­ don¡¯t celebrities also have personal rights?


    After all, Justin won¡¯t stay silent if someone makes use of his private photos.


    ¡°I can say that the three of them are my best friends.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you have people who love you like best friends. I¡¯m sure too, they must be fun to be around?¡±


    Giselleughed. ¡°That¡¯s the way it is. I¡¯ll introduce them when the time is right. They all have opposite schedules to mine. We only get to be together once in a while and usually, we get through it without wanting any outside interference.¡±


    ¡°For example?¡± Andrew checked his fishing rod. Observing the current, the river was calm but there was a vortex in the center. A sign that this river is quite dangerous to enjoy unless a professional swimmer also has a specific purpose. Observing the river ecosystem for example. ¡°I don¡¯t think we¡¯ll get any fish today.¡± He sat down next to Giselle. I was very grateful to be able to see Giselle¡¯s face in real life again.


    His hand reflexively stretched out to tidy up Giselle¡¯s messy hair.


    ¡°Why is that?¡± asked Giselle as she opened her eyes. Slightly surprised by what Andrew had done, it left the man speechless. It was as if he was waiting for Giselle¡¯s response to whether his actions would be rejected or left alone.


    Just like when Andrew unceremoniously hugged Giselle, even though it ended up being a bit awkward but Giselle couldn¡¯t resist. Even today, where the tip of Andrew¡¯s hand slightly touched the side of her face. A gentle and loving caress, which Giselle was ultimately unable to resist. Letting Andrew tuck a strand of her hair in her ear.


    ¡°Do you want grilled fish?¡±


    ¡°Not really,¡± Giselle grinned nervously. ¡°Didn¡¯t we bring some groceries?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Andrew smiled slightly. ¡°You¡¯re hungry, right? Shall we eat now? Grill meat won¡¯t be good if you dy eating it.¡±


    Giselle imitated Andrew¡¯s steps as he moved a little further away. Closer to their food supply box,plete with cutlery and some cold drinks. The instant mashed potato that was also bought on the way to this ce, was used as an alternative carbohydrate for them to consume. Complementing the marinated meat slices.


    ¡°Um¡­ the scent is appetizing.¡± Giselle was excited. Unexpectedly, despite its simplicity, what Andrew did today made Giselle happy. Very happy in fact. She had never visited such a pleasant and beautiful ce before.


    ¡°Eat a lot, Nami. I see you¡¯re a little thin?¡±


    ¡°It should be for you. Don¡¯t you see yourself, Mr. Stalker?¡±


    Andrewughed excitedly. ¡°I haven¡¯t heard you call me that in a long time.¡± He ced a cooked piece of meat in Giselle¡¯s bowl. Making the girl smile happily and devour it slowly. It was a little hot but it made Giselleugh.


    At least, even though tomorrow Andrew would have to face his superiors who would surely ask a lot of questions about this impromptu leave, it was worth it. Giselle¡¯s smile, the joy that Giselle disyed on her face, also had a lot to say to the girl he found increasingly unattainable.


    But so be it. For today, Andrew wanted to be near her. To feel her presence tangibly.


    ¡°I¡¯m full!¡± screeched Giselle with a slightly flushed look. ¡°You finish it. There¡¯s plenty left.¡±


    ¡°but this is too much.¡± Andrew stared at the still-cooking meat with a look of disbelief. ¡°You have to help finish it.¡±


    ¡°But my stomach can¡¯t take it anymore, Andrew.¡±


    ¡°Slowly we finish it.¡±


    And a lot of exciting conversations happened between them until¡­


    ¡°Oh my!¡±


    The rain wasing down so hard, forcing them to go inside the tent and speed up the meal. Because of the hurry, there were some parts of the equipment that were still outside. Andrew had to go back and forth to get them.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get sick, Andrew. Let it go.¡±


    Andrew smiled slightly. ¡°A little more to go. Can you get me a towel from the car? It¡¯s in my bag.¡±


    The rain was getting heavier. What had been sunny was covered in dark clouds and thunderous lightning.


    ¡°We¡¯re stuck,¡± Giselle said quietly.


    ¡°Once the rain stops, we¡¯ll head home. I¡¯m worried that the river will suddenly rise and leave uspletely trapped.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t scare me, Andrew!¡±


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