《TEST DRIVE: A Night of Forbidden Desire》


 Broken Heart or Mental Illness? 1

    Vonda Raveena Scott walked gracefully, adorned in an off-white knee-length gown that mesmerized many with her tall, slender, and beautifully curvaceous figure. The gown¡¯s design appeared simple, yet it exuded a seductive and tempting allure, perhaps due to its low-cut neckline, revealing her smooth shoulders and back. Complemented by the elegance of her long legs supported by ck seven-centimeter heels, Vonda appeared as a model rightfully stealing the spotlight.


    Especially when eyes fell upon the shimmering wavy hair intentionally let loose and the clutch she held in her left hand. It would not be wrong to say that Vonda¡¯s appearance was utterly wless. Her lips, adorned with a shade of expensive red lipstick, faintly moved into a thin smile as she stepped into the luxurious hotel ballroom.


    The wedding celebration was grand, exceeding the expectations of both Vonda and the other guests. Few people could pull off such a magnificent wedding in such a short time without meticulous preparation. Vonda had heard it from the circting gossips; the CEO of Greatech, thepany she worked for, was truly head over heels in love with his wife, who had once been his subordinate in Vonda¡¯s department.


    Their love story carried a sense of drama, arousing the enthusiasm of the invited employees, including Vonda, who was eager to enjoy the festivities. She hoped to spend the night in joy and forget the sorrow she had experienced just yesterday.


    Yes! Everyone here is having fun. Who knows? Maybe I could meet a handsome avable guy tonight. Hm, what if Mr. Lucas Hernandez is drop-dead gorgeous? Surely, his family is just as fabulous as he is. Oh, how should I approach him? I¡¯m not any less beautiful than Velia Angelica Howell, who now holds the title of Mrs. CEO. Hahaha.


    Vonda grinned, feeling her confidence levels soaring, urging her to raise her chin as high as possible, striding with grace like a world-ss model on a catwalk. She truly looked¡­


    ¡°Shh! Look, Ms. Scott has arrived.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, she looks stunning.¡±


    ¡°Seriously! Her figure is just wow!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s smile widened. Hearing those voices, she purposefully flicked her hair a bit, hoping her radiance would spread throughout the party until¡­


    ¡°But Andrew is still clueless, huh? Can¡¯t he see that he¡¯s openly holding Livy here?¡±


    What?!


    Vonda¡¯s steps were instantly halted. Her head and eyes now swiveled, searching for the source of the whispers, and¡­ gulp!


    Vonda saw them. Not too far away, at a guest table, Andrew Phillips and Livy Barnes were sitting together with their friends, who happened to be Vonda¡¯s subordinates as well.


    Oh, God. Vonda froze. She could not say anything now, except for the sound she heard in her ears.


    Crack!


    ¡°Ugh!¡±


    Vonda winced, even the sound of her broken heart was audible. It was truly heartbreaking. This time, she was not sure if her legs could still carry her gracefully, as they did when she first entered. Her knees felt shaky and weak.


    Vonda took a deep breath, trying to remain standing upright instead of copsing to the floor and crawling away. She attempted to keep walking, just before¡­


    ¡°Tsk! Even though Ms. Scott looks absolutely stunning, it¡¯s just¡­ Andrew and Livy are way out of line!¡±


    ¡°Exactly. They¡¯re showing off their affection shamelessly, even after getting caught in such an embarrassing situation just yesterday.¡±


    ¡°I wonder how Ms. Scott must be feeling right now.¡±


    My feelings?


    Vonda tried to remain calm.


    Want to eat ss, huh?


    Suddenly, Vonda¡¯s confidence began to wane. It gradually diminished, and finally, she turned around. The door was still open for her to leave.


    ¡°Hei, Von!¡±


    Vonda turned to see a Human Resources Department employee named Sarah Roberts walking towards her.


    ¡°Sarah, I-¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± Sarah¡¯s eyes widened as she saw Vonda that night. ¡°Oh¡­ my¡­ God! You look so beautiful, Baby.¡±


    Vonda winced. She felt like stuffing Sarah¡¯s big mouth with the swan-shaped ice sculpture in the middle of the room.


    Her head? Her wings? Ah!


    Vonda nodded her head.


    Maybe I should stuff my whole body into Sarah¡¯s mouth. So, she won¡¯t be able to breathe anymore!


    However, even if Vonda really wanted to do that, it seemed toote. Sarah had already reached out and spun Vonda around to get a better look at her dress. Vonda spun around, torn between wanting to escape from seeing Andrew and Livy¡¯s affection or because of Sarah¡¯s embarrassing behavior.


    Sarah whispered in Vonda¡¯s ear, asking softly, ¡°How many installments did you use?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cash, by the way-¡±


    Sarah covered her mouth with her hand, her eyes darting. ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°But it was paid using a credit card.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Sarah looked puzzled, blinking her eyes.


    ¡°Listen,¡± Vonda said then. ¡°I don¡¯t know what your intentions were to act crazy tonight, Sar.¡±


    Sarah¡¯s lips pouted.


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ I know you can be a bit wild sometimes. But for tonight, please.¡± Vonda gave her a pleading gaze. ¡°I want to live peacefully without any disturbances.¡±


    ¡°Peacefully?¡± Sarah asked, feigning innocence as she raised her hand to point at a spot, before continuing, ¡°By watching your ex-boyfriend getting cozy with his mistress after catching them red-handed in apromising position on a chair?¡±


    Vonda took a deep breath, wondering why she ended up with a friend as brainless as Sarah.


    ¡°How can you possibly stay calm, Von?¡±


    Vonda winced. ¡°Thank you so much for reminding me of the exact reason Andrew and I broke up, Sarah.¡±


    Sarah quickly nodded. ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± Her hands sped together on her chest. ¡°By the way¡­ when you broke up, Andrew¡¯s¡­ masculinity was still inside Livy, right?¡±


    Vonda nced at the swan-shaped ice sculpture again.


    Okay, it¡¯s still not melting.


    ¡°Listen,¡± Sarah said, cing her hand on Vonda¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You can choose to leave now through that wide-open door.¡± Sarah pointed at the door. ¡°Or you can enjoy this party. Running away means you lose, Von.¡±N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    ¡°Please, Sarah. This is not apetition.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not, but¡­ it¡¯s about your dignity.¡±


    Oh!


    That statement widened Vonda¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful, Von. You¡¯re not at fault here, so why should you back down?¡± Sarah asked. ¡°They¡¯re the ones creating a scandal, why should you be the one embarrassed? What¡¯s there to be ashamed of?¡±


    Vonda blinked again.


    ¡°This is one of the reasons why Oceana is bing more backward. Every time there¡¯s a case, the victims are the ones feeling ashamed. Meanwhile, the criminals roam freely without any shame. It¡¯s like they¡¯ve lost their sense of decency. But it¡¯s the victims who have to ignore their shame, Von. They didn¡¯t do anything wrong.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s forehead furrowed as Sarah¡¯s words started to sink in one by one. She nodded along with the increasing number of words Sarah uttered.


    ¡°So, you, as a revolutionary figure, Von. You have to change people¡¯s mindsets. Don¡¯t let the wrongdoers be the main characters.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips closed. Her face also hardened, and she nodded.


    ¡°So, don¡¯t run away. Show them your beauty. Your charm, Von,¡± Sarah said with a serious face, just like a criminal figure trying to hypnotize her victim. ¡°The Vonda I know has always been able to turn things around.¡±


    ¡°That is it.¡± Vonda nodded again. ¡°I am an undefeated female warrior.¡±


    ¡°Yes! That¡¯s it, Von. This is the real Vonda.¡±


    As a result, Vonda straightened her posture, giving Sarah a cunning nce. ¡°Wanna watch the show, Baby?¡±


    Sarah returned an equally cunning look. ¡°I¡¯ll record it, Baby.¡±


    *

 Broken Heart or Mental Illness? 2

    Vonda did notment any further. Instead, she gracefully walked away again. Meanwhile, behind her, Sarah quickly caught up and took out her phone.


    Ignoring Sarah, Vonda could see how the people at the table were looking at her. The faces of the five people sitting there disyed various emotions. Andrew gave her a slight smile. Livy shot her a mocking gaze. The two other guys and one girl whose names Vonda did not know exchanged discreet nces. Their faces turned wary.


    Vonda pulled a chair and joined the table, looking at Andrew and Livy alternately.


    ¡°Just rx. Office matters should stay at the office. After office hours, it means we¡¯re not boss and subordinate anymore,¡± she said.


    ¡°Ehm.¡±


    The three of them took a deep breath, anticipating various possibilities that might unfold.


    ¡°Oh, by the way,¡± Livy said. ¡°Did youe alone?¡±


    Vonda blinked once. Adding to that, Andrew, sitting next to Livy, appeared to be trying to hold back a smirk.


    Uh-oh!


    Sarah shook her head from where she stood.


    Is she eating something wrong or what? How can she provoke Vonda like that?


    Vonda smiled as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.


    Glek!


    Sarah tightened her grip on her phone.


    The show was about to begin,dies and gentlemen.


    ¡°Independent women are like that, Livy. Coming alone to a wedding reception? Ah, only clingy girls are afraid. As for me?¡± Vonda chuckled mischievously. ¡°I¡¯m definitely not the type of girl who would willingly be someone¡¯s mistress just to have a date for a wedding reception.¡±


    Wow!


    Sarah¡¯s eyes widened, and she nodded. She grinned when she saw Livy coughing slightly due to all the remarks. However, Vonda did not stop there. She looked at the three unknown individuals.


    ¡°Sorry, what are your names?¡±


    ¡°Andy, Miss.¡±


    ¡°Bobby, Miss.¡±


    ¡°ra, Miss.¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°Complete, huh? We have A, B, and C all here.¡±


    Sarah felt the urge tough but held back.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be shy around me, especially about what happened yesterday. You probably heard about it, right? About how I caught Livy and Andrew doing it on a chair?¡±


    Nice shot, Von.


    Andrew took a deep breath, trying topose himself. ¡°Ehm¡­ well, about that, I think-¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Vonda eximed loudly, shifting her focus to Livy. ¡°I just realized why you chose the horse-style instead of the snake-style on the table.¡±


    Livy¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Miss Scott, I hope you-¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because Andrew¡¯s masculinity is short, right?¡±


    Andy and Booby started to cough spontaneously. ra immediately felt her face burning. But Vonda appeared quiteposed. Sarah covered her mouth with her hand.


    ¡°Oh, I already guessed it,¡± Vonda brought her hand to rest on the table, supporting her chin for a moment before continuing. ¡°Oh dear. But you know, yesterday Andrew said the reason he cheated on me with you was that I couldn¡¯t make him happy. Because during our rtionship, I didn¡¯t want to ¡®make love¡¯ with him.¡±


    ¡°Vonda!¡±


    Andrew¡¯s face was visibly red as he eximed. However, Vonda did not stop. She ignored the fact that Andrew was already calling her by her name without using any honorifics.


    ¡°Now I¡¯m actually grateful that I didn¡¯t want to do that with Andrew,¡± Vonda said with a slight grimace. ¡°How should I put it?¡± She put on a slightly ridiculous shy smile. ¡°I was actually worried that his masculinity wouldn¡¯t be able to prate my hymen.¡±


    Sarah burst into giggles, and Andrew¡¯s face was no longer red. It had turned purple! But if he thought everything was over, he was mistaken. Vonda still had some sharp words to deliver.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m not surprised you wanted to be on top,¡± Vonda said, looking at Livy with a pitying gaze. ¡°So, you could be forced in deep, right?¡±


    Livy turned pale. Embarrassed.


    ¡°Tsk tsk tsk,¡± Vonda sighed and shook her head. ¡°You have to endure it, Les. It¡¯s nothing. Always being on top can be tiring, right? Well, but what can you do? It¡¯s better than feeling nothing, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Andrew¡¯s jaw clenched, but Vonda was too quick in speaking, so she continued.


    ¡°Oh, but it seems you¡¯re a bit lucky too, Les. Because if you have sex with Andrew, you don¡¯t have to worry about getting pregnant out of wedlock.¡±


    Sarah grinned.


    This is the final blow.


    ¡°Because his sperm probably won¡¯t reach your uterus.¡± Vonda chuckled and then stood up. ¡°Well, I¡¯m going around for a bit. Gonna find a guy. One who¡¯s long and big. Hihihi. So, I can ¡­ feel it.¡±


    Vonda tossed her hair once and left the table with a victorious smile.


    Just wait until Monday, okay? I guarantee #Andrewshort will be the hot gossip at the office. Hahaha.


    ¡°Oops!¡±


    Vonda almost bumped into a waiter.


    ¡°Sorry.¡±


    They both apologized before walking away. Vonda approached Sarah, who wasughing uncontrobly.


    ¡°Hahaha! You¡¯re crazy, Von! They couldn¡¯t even breathe.¡±


    Vondaughed. ¡°Hohoho. They deserved it.¡±


    ¡°Definitely,¡± praised Sarah, giving Vonda a thumbs-up. ¡°That¡¯s the real Vonda.¡±


    Vonda took a deep breath. ¡°How about we go shake hands with the CEO and his wife now? So, we can start eating.¡±


    Sarah nodded. ¡°Sure!¡±


    They both left the area and joined the queue to reach the stage, where the happy couple was standing.


    ¡°After I observed her, Velia is indeed beautiful, right? No wonder Mr. Hernandez fell for her.¡±


    Vonda took a deep breath. ¡°But Velia has every reason to be in awe of Mr. Hernandez too. He¡¯s awesome.¡±


    ¡°In essence, it¡¯s natural for both of them to be in awe of each other.¡±


    They shook hands, and afterward, Vonda and Sarah enjoyed the served dishes. They chatted andughed, making Vonda seem to forget the pain in her heart. But it was not as simple as that.


    Several times, Vonda had to take deep breaths, letting the day linger on while the newlyweds had left the party, which continued into the night.


    Vonda called over a waiter to bring a tray with long sses filled with alcohol. She grabbed one of them.


    ¡°Eh? Since when do you drink, Von?¡± Sarah asked, surprised.


    ¡°Since tonight,¡± Vonda replied.


    Sarah shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t get drunk. Just one ss.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What can¡¯t Vonda do?¡± Vonda grinned, starting to sip the drink. However, her forehead immediately creased as she felt the biting taste on her tongue. She winced momentarily but decided to keep drinking until the ss was empty. Then, her left hand went up again.


    While Sarah and the others continued chatting and gossiping, Vonda repeatedly raised her hand, and the empty ss was reced with a full one each time.


    ¡°Von!¡± Sarah turned to her, sounding rmed.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes opened, but her gaze was unfocused. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Are you drunk? How many sses have you had?¡±


    Vonda raised the empty ss in her hand. ¡°There¡¯s only one empty ss here.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God.¡± Sarah grimaced, realizing that the ss must have been refilled many times. ¡°Enough now?¡± She took the ss from Vonda¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go home, okay? It¡¯ste.¡±


    ¡°I think I should go home now,¡± Vonda nodded. ¡°I can go alone. You stay here.¡±


    ¡°What? No way. You have your car, right? It¡¯s dangerous for you to drive while drunk.¡±


    ¡°Modern times, Sar,¡± Vonda said with a hup. ¡°I¡¯ll order an online taxi. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll pick up my car.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Vonda stood up and waved awkwardly to her friends. ¡°I¡¯ll leave now, okay?¡±


    ¡°Hey, is it alright for Vonda to go home alone?¡± one of her friends asked.


    ¡°What if something happens to her on the way?¡± another friend added.


    Sarah snorted as she watched Vonda stumbling in her steps. ¡°I¡¯m actually more worried about the taxi driver. Vonda can be crazy when she¡¯s in trouble.¡±


    Sarah reached out and took a piece of cake from the table.


    ¡°Instead of worrying about Vonda¡¯s safety,¡± Sarah continued, ¡°let¡¯s pray that the taxi driver will be safe from a crazy passenger like her who¡¯s drunk.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡±


    *

 Broken Heart or Mental Illness? 3

    Vonda left the hotel¡¯s ballroom and went straight to the reception area. Leaning against the counter, she took out her phone and essed the ride-hailing app to book a taxi.


    When a message came in, Vonda blinked her eyes, trying to read it with her diminishing consciousness.


    Driver:


    I¡¯m on my way, Miss.


    Trying to stay aware, Vonda replied.


    Vonda:


    Okay, Sir. I¡¯m wearing a ivory-white dress.


    Just look for the most beautiful one, that¡¯s me.


    Vonda sent the message and checked the specifications of the taxi epting her request. She read it with blurred vision, trying to remember.


    ¡°Red Camry. License te¡­.¡± Vonda took a deep breath, shaking her head once. ¡°Okay, it¡¯s red, that¡¯s for sure.¡±


    With hesitant steps, Vonda walked away from there. She smiled at the security guards and declined their offer to assist her walking. Alone, she made her way to the hotel¡¯s courtyard.


    The night breeze blew, causing Vonda to shiver slightly. For a moment, she stared nkly, her gaze fixed on the entrance, waiting for her ordered taxi to arrive.


    Vonda blinked. Two bright lights appeared, indicating the approach of a vehicle. She shook her head for a moment, feeling something peculiar in her vision. The two lights seemed to turn into four. She tried to focus.


    ¡°Oh¡­ it¡¯s red,¡± Vonda squinted her eyes.


    ¡°Is that a Camry? Has it be a bit lower and longer?¡± Vonda questioned herself.


    Disregarding her confusion, Vonda looked again. It seemed that the shape of the car was changing before her eyes.


    ¡°Oh¡­ it¡¯s definitely the car. Its height is just different,¡± she reassured herself.


    Attempting to clear her vision, Vonda heard her phone ringing. The taxi driver was calling her, and she quickly answered the call.


    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m here,¡± said the driver.


    ¡°Yes, I can see your car,¡± Vonda replied. ¡°It¡¯s red.¡±


    Vonda ended the call and walked slowly, heading straight to one of the two red cars queued in front of the hotel courtyard. She opened the front door of the car and sat down, fastening her seatbelt.


    ¡°Hey? Miss?¡±


    Vonda turned around. ¡°Let¡¯s go now.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Go? Go where?¡±


    Vonda took a deep breath. ¡°To my home. Or should we go to your home?¡±


    The guy behind the wheel started to blink in confusion, scratching his head.


    ¡°By the way, there¡¯s another car behind us,¡± Vonda said weakly. ¡°We might get scolded by the security guard.¡±


    The guy nced through the rearview mirror and, indeed, there was a red Camry right behind his car.


    ¡°But¡­¡±N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Vonda choked back tears, ¡°Please, let¡¯s just leave. I don¡¯t want to be here anymore.¡±


    The driver was bewildered by Vonda¡¯s sudden outburst.


    ¡°I can¡¯t bear to see my ex-boyfriend with his mistress all lovey-dovey,¡± Vonda cried.


    Confused, the driver pulled the gear shift to start moving the car. Vonda let out a long sigh just as her phone rang again. She red at it with a frown.


    ¡°Who is it now?¡±


    Vonda declined the call and ced her phone back into her clutch.


    ¡°Where do you want to go, Miss?¡± the driver asked, trying to change the subject.


    ¡°Can we go to the police station?¡± Vonda eximed. ¡°I want to report Andrew and Livy for their indecent actions in the office! They were ying ¡®horsey¡¯ in the office.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The guy blinked. ¡°ying ¡®horsey¡¯?¡±


    Vonda ced her clutch on the car dashboard. Changing her seating position, she faced the guy directly.


    ¡°You know, right?¡± Vonda whispered as if there were other people present. ¡°Woman on top.¡±


    What?!


    The guy blinked once more. Confused, stiff, and only able to nod in response.


    ¡°And you know?¡± Vonda raised a finger. ¡°They were fooling around in the office, and I¡­¡± Vonda blinked once, struggling to keep talking. ¡°I got dumped by Andrew while he was still inside Livy.¡±


    Vonda nced toward the guy¡¯s crotch, causing him to widen his eyes and quickly cover his private area.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± The guy scratched his head, his confusion escting as he cursed. ¡°Oh no. Why does it feel like this new car is cursed? And I haven¡¯t even met Lucas yet. Argh!¡±


    Vonda sobbed, making it seem like she was crying. ¡°You¡¯re so right. I want to find a guy like Mr. Lucas Hernandez. I don¡¯t want Andrew anymore.¡±


    The guy eximed. ¡°Good Lord!¡±


    ¡°And you, what¡¯s your name?¡± Vonda nodded. ¡°You¡¯re handsome, by the way.¡±


    ¡°Pardon?¡±


    ¡°Your name is not Andrew, right?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha, that¡¯s what I thought. Andrew probably can¡¯t afford a car because he likes to party all the time.¡±


    The guy scratched his head.


    ¡°Actually, I already made a down payment for his car.¡±


    The guy turned to look at her.


    ¡°But before the first installment was due, he had already sold the car,¡± Vonda grinned. ¡°It happened just a day before I saw him fooling around. What should I do? I feel so broken. I lost my money, and now I¡¯ve lost my feelings too.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness!¡±


    ¡°Fortunately, I used his name for the car loan, although the down payment was from me. At least, I won¡¯t be the one getting billed this month.¡±


    The guy let out a long sigh, realizing that the woman sitting beside him waspletely out of it. In fact, the car had not moved at all for quite some time-it had stopped on the road.


    ¡°Seems like you¡¯ve gone off the rails.¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°I had a drink earlier.¡± She giggled. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s my first-time drinking.¡±


    ¡°Goodness!¡± He shook his head, feeling that his patience was wearing thin.


    ¡°That¡¯s why my eyes feel a bit heavy now. Maybe I drank too much?¡± Vonda seemed to hup several times, taking a deep breath and trying to assess her own condition. ¡°Uh¡­ I¡¯m a bit tipsy. But just because I¡¯m tipsy, I feel like I¡¯m riding in a red Lamborghini taxi.¡±


    Vonda burst intoughter.


    ¡°From the moment you got into my car, I could tell that you were drunk,¡± the guy grumbled. ¡°Feeling like you¡¯re riding in a red Lamborghini taxi?¡± He gave her a sharp look. ¡°You have no idea how long and how much trouble I went through to be able to drive this car for the first time.¡±


    Vonda continued tough as her eyes became more and more hazy. ¡°It¡¯s okay. It feels like when we¡¯re drunk, we experience things that we wouldn¡¯t normally. Hihihi. I¡¯m riding in a red Lamborghini.¡±


    ¡°Did I dream yesterday, meeting a crazy girl like this?¡± The guy said to himself, utterly puzzled.


    Right after he mumbled that, he felt a tug on his hand. He turned to find Vonda looking at him with a misty gaze.


    ¡°Are you still busy?¡±


    ¡°Hah?¡±


    ¡°Sir, you don¡¯t have to drive tonight, okay?¡± Vonda smiled. ¡°How about just apanying me instead? After all, I¡¯m quite pretty, right?¡±


    The guy¡¯s eyes widened instantly. Then he blinked once, and stared again.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s slender fingers started to move. She unbuckled her seatbelt and leaned closer to the guy. Her fingertips traced along his jawline, her eyes gazing with a longing look.


    ¡°Help me forget my heartache?¡± Vonda whispered.


    What?!


    ¡°And it¡¯s fine in this car too.¡±


    *

 A Crazy Virgin 1

    ¡°A-a-what?¡± The guy stammered.


    Vonda grinned widely, and his hesitant voice seemed to ignite a fire within her, making her crawl closer from the passenger seat she had been sitting in.


    Vonda got even closer to the guy, half-crawling, with both knees on the passenger seat, bridging the gap between them. The guy¡¯s face showed shock and anticipation.


    ¡°Miss, uh? What are you doing?¡± he asked.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes moved wildly, examining the handsome face before her. She mumbled softly while showing off her smooth shoulders.


    ¡°Am I pretty?¡±


    Glek!


    ¡°Am I beautiful?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­ that¡­¡±


    Kring!


    The ringing of the phone diverted the guy¡¯s attention. Vonda also looked puzzled.


    ¡°That¡¯s not my phone¡¯s ringtone.¡±


    The guy tried to withdraw. ¡°It¡¯s my phone, Miss. I want to answer it first.¡±


    Hearing that, Vonda pulled her hand away from his face, but it did not mean she was moving away. She still maintained her half-crawling position.


    With trembling hands, the guy tried to reach for his phone in such a limited space. He was not surprised when he saw who was calling.


    Lucas Hernandez is calling¡­


    Quickly, he answered the call. ¡°Hello, Luc.¡±


    Vonda took a deep breath, trying to keep herself conscious, which was bing increasingly difficult.


    ¡°Max, where are you? You¡¯ve been missing since the party ended.¡±


    Damn it! The guy cursed inwardly.


    ¡°Luc, I didn¡¯t mean not toe. I swear! I was on my way here. I had already arrived at the hotel, but suddenly, I-¡±


    ¡°Oh, man,¡± Vonda¡¯s sigh interrupted the guy¡¯s words. ¡°Let¡¯s end the call, okay? We said we were going for ying ¡®horsey¡¯ in the car. The road is quiet now, so let¡¯s take advantage of it.¡±


    What?!


    The guy nearly choked on his saliva.


    This girl is truly insane!


    ¡°Ehm¡­ Maxwell Hernandez.¡±


    Lucas¡¯s voice on the other end made Max realize the gravity of the situation. People would surely misunderstand Vonda¡¯s words just now.


    ¡°I had no idea that you were busy with-¡±


    ¡°Luc, not like that.¡±


    Vonda sighed again. ¡°Shall we go to my ce instead?¡±


    Shiiit!


    ¡°Alright, Max. I¡¯ll make an exception this time.¡±


    Max panicked. ¡°Lucas! Luc! Luc-¡±


    Click!


    The call ended.


    Max angrily squeezed his phone for a moment before tossing it carelessly onto the dashboard. He turned to Vonda.


    ¡°Are you really insane?¡± he asked, fuming. ¡°Do you know who was calling me just now?¡±


    Innocently, Vonda shook her head. ¡°Wasn¡¯t it Andrew?¡±


    Max closed his eyes dramatically. ¡°Oh my God. Is there a customs officer who¡¯s holding a grudge against this car or something? Why is it that the first time I use it, I end up meeting a crazy drunk girl like you?¡±


    Vonda clearly ignored Max¡¯s rant, which only made him stare in disbelief. ¡°So, who was it?¡±


    ¡°It was my cousin. He¡¯s closest to my mom, and do you know what kind of trouble your moans can cause?¡±


    Vonda shook her head, and he pped his forehead. ¡°Can we stop talking about that? Let¡¯s just ying ¡®horsey¡¯.¡±


    Max clenched the steering wheel with frustration. ¡°Oh, God. This is really testing my patience.¡±


    ¡°Huh!¡±


    Vonda snorted roughly. ¡°And am I the only one testing your patience? I¡¯ve been patient this whole time!¡±


    After saying that, Vonda unexpectedly grabbed Max¡¯s hand without warning and pressed her lips to his.


    Max widened his eyes. Vonda was really kissing aplete stranger with such audacity that it could make anyone lose face on this.


    ¡°How about it?¡± Vonda asked with a smile, pulling away from the brief kiss, enjoying Max¡¯s shocked expression, frozen in ce. ¡°Should I kiss you again?¡±


    Max tried topose himself. Fumbling, he tried to speak, but Vonda acted again.


    Vonda¡¯s lips greeted Max once more. And unlucky for him, it was not just a mere touch of their lips. It was not an ordinary kiss.


    Vonda took advantage of Max¡¯s intention to speak and swiftly slid her tongue between his lips.


    Max was taken aback, but Vonda was too quick, immediately tangling their lips together and kissing him as if it was the most natural thing to do.


    Vonda¡¯s lips moved somewhat clumsily. It was rushed and awkward, but still, it kindled a fire inside Max.


    Max felt Vonda¡¯s hand move up, cupping his jaw on one side, giving it a gentle stroke, and he heard Vonda moan.


    Kiss.


    Touch.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Moan.


    Max closed his eyes.


    Is this girl really insane or has she lost her mind?


    Nevertheless, Vonda was really kissing him. Deepening the kiss, making Max feel breathless.


    Max¡¯s hand then rose to grip Vonda¡¯s hand on his face, causing her to startle and immediately pull away from the kiss. Vonda looked at Max with confusion in her eyes.


    ¡°Do you know what you¡¯re doing?¡± Max asked. It was embarrassing, but even he felt his voice sounded heavy at that moment.


    For real, I¡¯m just a normal guy.


    Vonda gazed at Max, wearing a mysterious smile as she replied softly, her warm breath caressing Max¡¯s face.


    ¡°Yes, I do. I know. I want you to help me forget my heartache. I may be a normal woman, and just because I don¡¯t want to do anything with my ex, doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m not capable of doing anything at all. Somehow, I just don¡¯t want to do it with him.¡±


    Gasp!


    ¡°T-then why do you want to do it with me?¡± Max stammered.


    Vonda blinked again, but instead of answering, she pulled Max¡¯s face towards hers and answered with a kiss. Max groaned.


    Vonda became even more passionate, demanding, and pressing her lips against Max¡¯s, ignoring his attempts to pull away.


    Vonda boldly leaned in, pushing herself closer until their kiss broke and her lips brushed against Max¡¯s freshly shaven jaw, leaving a warm, wet trail on his skin. It sent shivers down Max¡¯s spine, and he found his hands moving.


    Vonda gasped as she realized Max had gripped her upper arms tightly. He looked like he was growling.


    ¡°Don¡¯t me me if I eventually end up inviting you for ying ¡®horsey¡¯ here,¡± Max said with a sense of urgency.


    Vonda¡¯s smile widened. ¡°That¡¯s what I want.¡±


    *

 A Crazy Virgin 2

    For thest time, Max looked into the eyes of the unknown girl before him. Beautiful with flushed cheeks, whether from alcohol or desire-perhaps both. The unknown girl who asked him to help her forget her heartache.


    Am I crazy? I don¡¯t mean to be an angel offeringfort by getting intimate with her, right? Is this a problem or a reward?


    Max tried to hold back. He could not possibly do such a thing with a stranger. Especially not by the side of the road.


    Oh,e on! In my entire life, I¡¯ve never done anything like this by the side of the road. The risk of getting caught by passersby is greater than the pleasure that tempts me. But¡­


    Everyone has their limits. Max could feel his defenses crumbling under the spell of Vonda¡¯s kiss. Embarrassingly, he finally gave in.


    Vonda was surprised when she found Max leaning in and kissing her fervently. Yet, her surprise quickly turned into surrender. As Max released her seatbelt and gently urged her to sit back in the passenger seat, Vonda did not resist at all.


    Max skillfully yed his lips against Vonda¡¯s, exploring and peppering them with kisses. Alternating and repeating until they both gasped for breath.


    Vonda let out a sigh, just as Max pulled away from their kiss and traced his lips along her jawline.


    Breathing heavily, Vonda lifted her chin, allowing Max to trace along her skin on her neck¡­ then continued to kiss and nibble there. Vonda tugged at his ck hair. Max¡¯s kisses on her neck left her entranced.


    Vonda had an elegant neck, tempting Max to y there even longer. He kissed and sucked her skin repeatedly, eliciting moans from Vonda, who arched her body towards Max as if offering more.


    Max released Vonda¡¯s neck, which was now marked with a sensual redness. His tongue caressed the reddened area, making Vonda feel even more dizzy.


    Vonda had a graceful and beautiful neck, tempting Max to linger there even longer. He kissed and sucked her neck repeatedly, drawing moans from Vonda as her body arched towards him, as if inviting more.


    Max released Vonda¡¯s neck, which was moist from his ministrations, and gazed at the reddened mark left there. It was undeniably alluring, and Max¡¯s tongue involuntarily reached out to caress the mark, making Vonda¡¯s head spin even more.


    One of Max¡¯s hands slid behind Vonda¡¯s back, pulling her slender body closer. In sync with his other hand¡¯s movements, he traced the edges of Vonda¡¯s dress around her chest, tugging it gently, as he was enticed to feel more of her skin elsewhere. Around her corbone, her shoulder, and everywhere else.


    Max sprinkled a few kisses there, then pulled his hand back, causing the dress to slide down and reveal Vonda¡¯s intimate parts. Max¡¯s eyes darkened as he was tantalized by the sight of Vonda¡¯s soft mounds of breasts. Without wasting any time, Max leaned in to give his first greeting there.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s moans echoed through the room as Max continued to caress her breasts. Her grip on Max¡¯s hair tightened as he teasingly flicked the tip of his tongue over the peaks of her breasts.


    Now it was Max¡¯s turn to growl, pulling Vonda closer and cing her on hisp as he settled back into his seat. He swiftly removed Vonda¡¯s high-heeled shoes, allowing her long legs to wrap around him.


    Max¡¯s hands moved, pulling down the dress as Vonda released her arms from the straps of the strapless gown.


    The dress piled around Vonda¡¯s waist, exposing her bare breasts to Max¡¯s gaze. Max ced his hands on her breasts and squeezed them yfully.


    ¡°Oh my,¡± Vonda gasped.


    Vonda threw her head back, savoring the sensation of Max¡¯s hands on her breasts. But that was not all, Max¡¯s mouth was also in action, sucking, licking, and indulging in all sorts of mischief that made Vonda¡¯s moans grow incessant.


    Max groaned, sucking on Vonda¡¯s nipples, making him feel dizzy. He wanted to experience it again and again, and that¡¯s exactly what he did.


    Max did everything he desired, evoking reactions from Vonda with each move. The natural responses fueled Max¡¯s passion, especially when he realized that Vonda was not a passive woman. In fact, she brought her hands into action, caressing his chest, stroking his jaw, and everything she did further ignited Max¡¯s desire.


    Vonda pushed aside Max¡¯s jacket, and he quickly moved topletely remove the hindrance that restricted his movements. He tossed the jacket carelessly, not caring where itnded.


    Vonda¡¯s nimble fingers moved hurriedly, unbuttoning his shirt while Max pulled it out of his pants. Within a moment, the shirt met the same fate as his jacket.


    Vonda leaned in, caressing Max¡¯s broad chest and cing a kiss there. Max closed his eyes, relishing the gentle touch of Vonda and realizing that he liked the way she touched him  soft and with a sense of care.


    However, a thought crossed Max¡¯s mind once again, causing him to hold Vonda¡¯s hand and look into her eyes as he asked onest time, ¡°Are you serious?¡±


    Vonda moved closer once more, intentionally pressing her breasts against Max¡¯s chest, causing him to groan in response. ¡°I¡¯m very serious,¡± she replied firmly.


    Max clenched his jaw, pushing Vonda slightly away from hisp as he retrieved a small package from his wallet. Vonda watched in silence as Max tossed the wallet aside.


    Max quickly unbuckled his belt, unfastening the button and pulling down the zipper, releasing his throbbing manhood that had been eager for release. ¡°Wow!¡± Vonda gasped, and Max grinned, tearing open the condom package with his teeth.


    ¡°I hope you can handle a wild ride tonight,¡± Max teased as he put on the condom and then reached for Vonda. His hands slipped under her dress, helping to remove it until only her panties remained on her body.


    Max¡¯s fingers reached out, caressing Vonda¡¯s intimate area, feeling the wetness that had soaked through the soft fabric of her underwear. Warm and alluring.


    Vonda bit her lip,plying without uttering a word as Max gently guided her to remove her panties. It was a bit challenging with their limited movement, but Vonda managed to slip the garment off.


    Max¡¯s fingers caressed Vonda¡¯s womanhood, causing her to close her eyes and grip Max¡¯s shoulders. Slowly exploring, Max seemed to be studying every curve of her femininity.


    ¡°Oh,¡± Vonda whispered.


    Vonda moaned, unconsciously moving her hips, driven by the natural response to the stimtion, making her want to grind against him.


    Max clenched his jaw, the wetness of Vonda down there leaving him unable to hold back any longer. His hands gripped Vonda¡¯s waist, carefully lifting her body, guiding her womanhood towards his fully erect manhood, and then lowering her quickly.


    ¡°Argh!¡± Vonda cried out in pain.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Max¡¯s eyes widened in shock. He fell silent as Vondanded back on hisp. Cold fear washed over him.


    ¡°Are you still a virgin?¡± Max asked, fearing the answer.


    Breathing heavily, Vonda tightened her grip on Max¡¯s shoulders. She opened her eyes, still tightly shut, and tried to calm herself down. When she felt Max¡¯s body tensing up, she knew she had to reassure him.


    ¡°Well ¡­ I¡¯m not a virgin anymore, right? You¡¯ve just deflowered me,¡± Vonda said, attempting to lighten the mood.


    Max became even more frustrated. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me you were still a virgin?¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t ask.¡±


    Max dramatically closed his eyes in response to Vonda¡¯s reply. He was bewildered by this girl.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    Max growled. Still overwhelmed by a mix of emotions, Vonda spoke again.


    ¡°So, is it done with the ¡®deflowering¡¯ stuff? Can we move on to something else now?¡± she asked.


    ¡°How can you still talk about other things now? Don¡¯t you realize how serious this situation is?¡± Max snapped. ¡°How could you surrender yourself to a stranger like this? Are you brainless?¡±


    Vonda pouted. ¡°I do have a brain, you know. After all, I¡¯m still alive.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Besides,¡± Vonda smiled, loosening her grip on Max¡¯s shoulder and, shortly after, changing it to hug him around the neck. ¡°For some reason, I felt really sure about doing this with you. Maybe it was fate.¡±


    Max waspletely losing control of the situation. Here he was with a crazy, drunk girl seducing him and talking about fate.


    ¡°You¡¯re a crazy virgin!¡± Max red at her. ¡°Fine, if that¡¯s what you want,¡± he said in a heavy tone. ¡°I hope you can really handle it tonight.¡±


    Vonda smiled.


    ¡°Because I don¡¯t like being ridden for a short while.¡±


    *

 Really Crazy 1

    Vonda winced. The girl undeniably felt pain inside. Especially when Max, unaware of her virginity, thrust himself. Unsurprisingly, her delicate hymen tore without warning or signal. However, something was odd. While Max felt guilty, Vonda, on the other hand, felt surprisingly okay.


    ¡°Um, so what people say about it hurting the first time ¡­ it¡¯s true, right?¡± she asked.


    Max clenched his jaw. His hands still held Vonda¡¯s waist, guiding her movements, even if slowly. He restrained himself, though it was difficult. Max¡¯s humanity had been touched by his guilt all this time. So, it was no surprise when he finally asked gently, ¡°Does it still hurt?¡±


    In front of Max¡¯s face, Vonda nodded. ¡°It feels strange. It¡¯s not like a painful scrape, but¡­¡±


    Vonda could not find the right words, but Max understood well enough to continue restraining himself. As time went on, controlling his urges became increasingly difficult for him.


    There was no need to ask how tormented Max felt. He was inside Vonda, yet he could not move to satisfy their desires, fearing it would cause her more pain.


    Max took a deep breath, realizing he needed to shift his focus to prevent himself from guiding Vonda. Thus, he chose tovish attention on her breasts.


    Vonda blinked, slightly surprised when she felt Max resuming his exploration of her breasts. With his fingers and his mouth.


    A momentter, Vonda started to close her eyes, relishing Max¡¯s tantalizing touches. It did not take long before soft moans escaped her lips, urging her to lean further into Max¡¯s caresses. She offered herself more to him while her hands, which had been entwined in his ck hair, started to knead it.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Astounding!


    Despite intending to divert his thoughts, Max found that his actions only further aroused him. His desire grew stronger, and¡­


    Vonda moved. A primal instinct took over, and she followed her body¡¯s flow, surrendering to the pleasure of Max¡¯s caresses. Slowly but surely, she felt something within her that urged her to move, to grind against the lower part of her body that was still connected to Max.


    For a moment, Max was taken aback. Then, one of his hands moved to push aside Vonda¡¯s tangled hair that hung messily in front of her face. He tucked it behind her back and asked, ¡°Are you okay now?¡±


    Vonda bit her lower lip. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. But¡­ it feels good.¡±


    Max restrained himself, torn betweenughter and exasperation. ¡°Good?¡± he asked with a chuckle. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I can make it even better.¡±


    Before Vonda could grasp the meaning of Max¡¯s words, his hand was already on her waist again, guiding her movements. As the pace increased, Vonda was tempted to match Max¡¯s motions.


    In that car, the car that Max had just acquired earlier that afternoon when customs officers had delivered it to his parents¡¯ house, he realized that he had truly caught the crazy girl¡¯s bug.


    Having sex with an unknown virgin by the roadside? Wow!


    Even his wildest fantasies as a guy had never envisioned such a scenario. However, it did not mean that Max did not enjoy it. On the contrary, he could say that he was really enjoying it.


    Vonda¡¯s moans, her sensual movements, and her blushing face enchanted Max. He was determined to give Vonda a first experience she would never forget.


    Together, they moved in perfect harmony. Max gently caressed Vonda, kissing her swollen lips and squeezing her perfectly fitting breasts in his hands.


    Max felt Vonda clutching him tightly, her breath quickening as she moaned.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness.¡±


    Her moans were so beautiful, driving Max to thrust even faster, matching the rhythm of her passionate sounds. Theirbined moans filled the air, blending with Max¡¯s demanding groans.


    They moved faster and faster, urging each other on.


    Their breaths were in sync, leading Max to a moment when his masculinity felt like it was being tightly massaged by the muscles of Vonda¡¯s femininity inside.


    Vonda pulled Max close, embracing him tightly as she experienced a foreign explosion of sensations, causing her to cry out loudly.


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    Max clenched his jaw, ignoring Vonda, who was enveloped in her orgasm, and instead became more enthusiastic in guiding her movements. Until finally, he reached his climax.


    Max pulled Vonda close, burying himself as deep as possible, feeling the waves of pleasure wash over him.


    Silence. Both Vonda and Max were momentarily speechless. Only the sound of their erratic breathing could be heard. Followed by Max¡¯s gentle caress on Vonda¡¯s back.


    Max felt the beads of sweat there, wiping them away repeatedly. Unconsciously, he then started stroking Vonda from her head to her back.


    Several moments passed. Max felt his body calming down, and his caresses came to a stop when he spoke.


    ¡°Are you okay? Still in pain?¡±


    Max remained silent, waiting for a response. However, there was no answer from Vonda, causing Max to blink his eyes repeatedly.


    ¡°Hello?¡± he called out again.


    Max¡¯s uneasiness grew. He gently shook Vonda¡¯s body and was taken aback when he saw her eyes closed.


    ¡°She can¡¯t be asleep, right?¡± Max could not believe it. ¡°Oh my God! How could she just fall asleep like that?¡±


    Max held back the urge to scream in frustration. He dramatically closed his eyes and took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down before his emotions exploded.


    After sessfully calming himself, Max decided to act. The adrenaline rush from their encounter had cleared his mind, and now fear began to set in.


    ¡°W-what if the patrol officer suddenly shows up?¡± Max swallowed his saliva. He did not want to be caught in such an embarrassing situation. He quickly helped Vonda back to the passenger seat, albeit with some struggle.


    Sighing heavily, Max also felt a bit awkward. After all, he had never imagined in his life that he would be driving a half-naked woman as a passenger. Rather than sumbing to his emotions, Max chose tough it off. He pped the steering wheel.


    ¡°Just my luck to try out my new car and end up with a crazy passenger like this. Hahaha.¡± Max rubbed his frustrated face. ¡°This must be payback for joking with the customs officer the other day.¡±


    Then, hisughter turned into a chuckle. Just when a question slipped from his lips.


    ¡°So, where is this crazy naked girl expecting me to take her?¡±


    Max¡¯s hand went to his head, and he squeezed his own hair in frustration.


    ¡°Even if I were to take her back to her ce, I don¡¯t even know her address. Moreover¡­.¡±


    Max fell silent. The image of a thick mustached man brandishing a machete in his direction loomed.


    Glek!


    Which parent would want to see their daughter return in this state? Being dropped off by an unknown guy after a roadside encounter?


    ¡°No way!¡±


    Max touched his own neck, shuddering at the thought of a sharp de piercing it.


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Max cursed again. ¡°Instead of taking risks, let¡¯s just take her back to my unit.¡±


    Annoyed, Max removed the condom and quickly put his pants back on. He stepped out, swiftly disposing of the used condom in the trash bin.


    Upon returning to the car, Max helped Vonda put on his shirt. He really did not want to lose his patience while assisting her in wearing the dress again. That would be extremely troublesome.


    Shortly after, the engine of the car purred smoothly. Max nced at Vonda one more time, ensuring that she was sittingfortably, before he drove away.


    *

 Really Crazy 2

    Vonda blinked her eyes as consciousness slowly returned to her. She tried to open her eyes, but her eyelids felt heavy. She gave up and could only groan softly.


    ¡°Oh, God.¡±


    Her body felt extremely sore, causing her to hold her breath for a moment. She wanted to move, but it felt as if she was trapped in something, preventing her from doing so.


    ¡°Oh, man. Let¡¯s end the call, okay? We said we were going for ying ¡®horsey¡¯ in the car. The road is quiet now, so let¡¯s take advantage of it.¡±


    Vonda opened her eyes, and her body tensed instantly.


    Oh, God. What kind of nightmare is this?


    ¡°I hope you can handle a wild ride tonight.¡±


    ¡°Well ¡­ I¡¯m not a virgin anymore, right? You¡¯ve just deflowered me.¡±


    Vonda covered her mouth with her hand.


    W-why does this dream feel so real?


    Vonda bit her lower lip, only to feel more confused in the next second. As her eyes scanned the unfamiliar ceiling of the room, she became even more bewildered by everything around her.


    It was not just the ceiling and the wardrobe that felt unfamiliar. Everything in the room felt strange, leaving Vonda puzzled.


    She continued to scan her surroundings until her gaze met the door, and a fleeting shadow crossed her mind.


    ~


    ¡°Oh. Don¡¯t stop.¡±


    ¡°Stop? After my masculinity goes back inside you? Impossible.¡±


    ¡°Aaah!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t stop, unless the condom suddenlyes off.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Well, then, make sure it doesn¡¯te off.¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding? Not only does it note off, just getting it in is already a feat. I bought the wrong size.¡±


    ¡°Next time- Argh! Oh my God.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t be able to have sex standing up like this without a problem.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Ah. So, the wall lizard style is good, Mas.¡±


    ~


    What?!


    Vonda widened her eyes.


    Oh, God. What am I thinking? Why have I been having such strange thoughts?


    As Vonda felt her body suddenly grow cold from all those thoughts, she found herself faced with another fact. A reality she realized when she heard heavy moansing from beside her.


    Vonda turned her head, and this time, she had to tightly cover her mouth to prevent herself from screaming when shock and panic surged through her. The sight was truly shocking.


    An unknown guy was vaguely squirming, pulling Vonda even closer into his embrace, making her press against his bare chest. It was a revtion that made Vonda understand why she felt trapped; there was a guy hugging her tightly!


    Vonda felt breathless. However, it was not over yet, as there were other shadows filling her mind.


    ~


    ¡°Argh.¡±


    ¡°Do you like it when I kiss you like this?¡±


    ¡°Ah! You seem to know what I like.¡±


    ¡°Wait. Move to the middle of the bed so it¡¯s morefortable.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God. Hug me. I can¡¯t wait any longer.¡±


    ¡°Wait. Let me put on a condom for a moment.¡±


    ¡°Ah! I like the snake style on the bed.¡±


    ~


    OH-MY-GOD!


    Vonda! What did you dost night?Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Vonda really wanted to bang her head against the nearest wall. These visions were making her feel nauseous.


    No way, right? There¡¯s no way I could have done that with a stranger, right? Oh God. Vonda! You¡¯re the craziest girl on earth!


    ¡°Ehm.¡±


    The guy groaned again, and Vonda seized the opportunity. She gently pushed the big body away, breaking their embrace.


    Vonda pulled away and let the guy lie on his back. This allowed her to clearly see his face, which¡­


    Oh my God! He¡¯s handsome too.


    Vonda pped her cheek.


    Snap out of it, Vonda. No matter how handsome he is, he¡¯s clearly not a good guy! A good guy wouldn¡¯t sleep with a stranger!


    Vonda got up, almost stumbling as she felt pain in her body, especially in her intimate area. She quickly sat down, biting her lower lip to endure the pain and embarrassment. She realized that her body waspletely bare, without a single thread to cover it, except for a thin and insufficient nket.


    No way, Von! You just lost your virginity and then tried three different positions?


    Vonda held back her frustration.


    The horsey style in car, the wall lizard style, and the snake style on the bed. Wow! Thankfully, things did not break down there!


    Cursing herself repeatedly in her heart, Vonda then looked around, searching for her dress, but she could not find it.


    Vonda was confused. She did not want to stay there when the stranger woke up, so she made a decision.


    Ignoring her naked body, Vonda stood up. Trying to endure the pain, she opened the wardrobe. She quickly found and pulled out three pieces of clothing: ck workout pants, a in ck t-shirt, and a matching jacket.


    Ignoring the fact that she was not wearing any underwear, Vonda quickly put on the three pieces of clothing. She managed to find her clutch and took it. However, it seemed that her clutch had the same fate as her dress. It was nowhere to be found. Fuming, Vonda thought.


    Alright then. I¡¯ll just go back and take a taxi. I¡¯ll borrow some money from Mr. Smith at the security post to pay for the fareter.


    Ensuring that she looked inconspicuous and safe, Vonda made a decision. She sneaked out of the apartment and hailed a taxi to go back to her own ce. On the way, Vondamented.


    ¡°Argh! Even when going back, I have to wear those nameless men¡¯s sandals.¡±


    *

 Nameless Memory

    Vonda was immensely grateful to those who diligently pursued their studies. Without them, she would not have been able to enter her apartment unit. The apartment door beeped, indicating that the lock had been opened with thebination of numbers entered. Without wasting time, Vonda hurriedly went inside.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    As soon as the apartment door closed, Vonda groaned, releasing all the frustration that surged in her chest. Her two hands clenched her hair in deep frustration. Her eyes widened, and her face turned red. Vonda looked exactly like the antagonistic character in a TV drama she had never watched. Sitting on the living room sofa, Vonda then berated herself repeatedly.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re crazy, Von. I know sometimes you¡¯re not in your right mind. But¡­ sleeping with a stranger on the roadside?¡±


    Vonda closed her eyes.


    ¡°Argh! I doubt you were even born with a brain! You must have been born without a brain, right, Von?!¡±


    Vonda continued to curse, taking the sofa cushion, and repeatedly punching it as if it were herself.


    ¡°That¡¯s why the brain is meant to be used! Don¡¯t leave it in the wardrobe!¡±


    Vonda punched again.


    ¡°You¡¯re so crazy that you even tempted a stranger? Oh God!¡±


    Vonda screamed with a piercing voice that could make even the mythical ghost, feel embarrassed instantly.


    ¡°No brains, and now you have to write down ¡®no shame¡¯ as your trait, Von!¡±


    The sofa cushion became crumpled and miserable in a short period of time. In front of Vonda, the soft object seemed to surrender to bing a punching bag for her frustration.


    However, momentster, Vonda¡¯s punches stopped abruptly. She suddenly reced her rant with regretful sobs.


    ¡°For twenty-nine years of living in this world. Ignoring all the temptations and advances that came one after another. In the end, it was you who tempted and allured an unknown guy? To the extent that you gave your virginity to a nameless stranger?¡±


    Vonda grimaced in frustration.


    ¡°Let¡¯s award the Guinness World Records title this year to Vonda Raveena Scott in the category of the most foolish girl in the entire Oceana.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hands clenched the sofa cushion again.


    ¡°Why am I so unluckytely, God?¡± Vonda asked. ¡°I was already heartbroken because of Andrew and lost the down payment for the car. And now, I¡¯m mentally disturbed because of a nameless guy, and my virginity is gone.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s body felt weakened. She slumped and fell onto the sofa. With a pitiful gaze, she continued to ramble.


    ¡°It would have been nice if it happened with someone I liked. But¡­ I don¡¯t even know this guy¡¯s name.¡±


    The air around Vonda felt heavy with disappointment and regret. Her mind was in turmoil, and she struggled toe to terms with the situation she found herself in.


    Vonda took a slow breath, staying silent for a while as if contemting her unfortunate fate.


    ¡°Now? Your phone is missing. The dress you paid for with your credit card is also gone. Even the car key is nowhere to be found,¡± she sighed.


    Vonda took another long breath.


    ¡°How will your life go on, Von? It¡¯s just the beginning of the month, but misfortunes keep piling up. What will happen at the end of the month?¡± Her eyes closed dramatically. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ll end up in a mental hospital for real.¡±


    For a moment, Vonda kept her eyes shut, inhaling, and exhaling dramatically, almost like someone experiencing shortness of breath. When she opened her eyes, she tried to gather her positive thoughts.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, Von. Forget aboutst night and start a new page.¡±


    She nodded repeatedly, trying to stand up. Vonda decided to go to her bedroom. Showering and cleaning herself up were the things she needed to do.


    In her bedroom, Vonda headed straight to the bathroom. She immediately took off the clothes she was wearing and made a disgusted face when she had to put the three pieces of clothing in a corner of the bathroom. Vonda was determined to throw them away as soon as possible.


    Suppressing the pain in her battered body, Vonda moved forward. nning to step under the shower, she froze when she saw her reflection in the mirror on the bathroom wall.


    ¡°Oh, my!¡± Vonda gasped; her eyes wide. ¡°Is that a human body or a leopard¡¯s body? Oh my God! Why are there so many bumps?¡±


    Vonda approached the mirror.


    ¡°Where were you bitten by mosquitoes that you¡¯re covered in all these bumps, Von?¡±


    Her face was in shock, not believing what she saw. She lowered her gaze, looking directly at the visible parts.N?velDrama.Org content.


    First, her chest. Vonda felt like her eyes would pop out of their sockets when she saw her reddened breast skin in several ces. Not only that, what shocked Vonda even more was the state of her nipples, which looked distressing.


    ¡°Why are my nipples swollen like green beans ready to be picked?¡± Vonda growled. ¡°No!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hand lifted, steadying herself against the mirror on the wall. That was when her eyes noticed again. Her stomach. Around her belly button was also filled with red marks.


    Only on her chest and her stomach? Oh no. There were also some on her thighs.


    Vonda held her breath, but her instincts kicked in. She pushed herself slightly to twist her body, and instantly, she screamed hysterically.


    ¡°Even on my butt?!¡±


    Vonda shut her eyes.


    ¡°Oh my God. Was I intimate with a human or a vampirest night? Why is my body all red?¡±


    And as if answering Vonda¡¯s question, voices echoed in her mind.


    ~


    ¡°Oh my, I¡¯ve never been kissed like this.¡±


    ¡°I can kiss you until you¡¯re satisfied.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mas. Kiss me everywhere. I really love your kisses.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ by the way, this is not a kiss, Mbak.¡±


    ¡°Then?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s more like a hickey.¡±


    ¡°Ah. No wonder if I feel the hups now.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. You don¡¯t have hups.¡±


    ~


    Vonda shivered.


    ¡°Vonda,¡± her own voice sounded so eerie, ¡°You¡¯ve truly gone crazy.¡±


    Her hand grabbed her hair again as she walked toward the shower. She intended to drench her head to erase the terrifying memories.


    ¡°Horse, lizard, and snake,¡± Vonda mumbled, turning on the shower, ¡°I sessfully became a zookeeper overnight, God.¡±


    Vonda was convinced she was going insane. So, it was no surprise that she kept cursing her own stupidity while water cascaded down her body. She could not believe she had done something so extreme.


    Vonda poured liquid soap into her palm and carefully rubbed it all over her body, trying not to pay attention to the red marks on her skin. Once she finished showering and wrapped herself in a towel, she headed to the toilet. As she sat down to pee, a shriek escaped her lips.


    ¡°Ouch!¡±


    Vonda clenched the towel against her body, her eyes wide with tears streaming down.


    The pain hade without warning. She could only bite her lower lip to endure it. Her breaths were heavy. There was no need to ask how much pain Vonda experienced when she had to rinse her private parts.


    ¡°Oh God. It feels like more than just my virginity is torn. It seems like my intimate organs are destroyed.¡±


    Vonda clenched her fists, and the voices returned in her mind.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m going around for a bit. Gonna find a guy. One who¡¯s long and big. Hihihi. So, I can ¡­ feel it.¡±


    Vonda was taken aback on the toilet seat. Her eyes widened in horror as her words fromst night echoed in her mind again.


    ¡°Oh my God. Please don¡¯t tell me you consider my words as prayers.¡±


    Her hand went to cover her mouth.


    ¡°Besides, that thing from the guy is no longer in the category of ¡®feels.¡¯ It¡¯s straight into the category of ¡®very feels.''¡±


    Vonda blinked.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    *


    The sun had risen, and its gentle rays seeped through the venttion gap in a different apartment building. The sunlight was dazzling, causing a pair of closed eyes to stir. Blinking several times, the eyes finally opened, revealing dark brown irises.


    ¡°Argh.¡±


    The guy let out a long sigh, fully awakening from his deep slumber. He had slept so soundly that he could not help but smile.


    ¡°Hahaha.¡±


    A softughter escaped him.


    ¡°I must be going crazy,¡± he said. ¡°To spend the night with a crazy girl whose name I don¡¯t even know.¡±


    He rubbed his face.


    ¡°What should I do when she wakes up? Maybe I should introduce myself. ¡®Hi, I¡¯m Maxwell, but you can call me Max. And you are?''¡±


    Max closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and decided to figure out the nter. For now, there was something more urgent to address.


    Max blinked as he turned to his side, furrowing his brow as he looked around.


    ¡°Huh? Where is that girl?¡±


    Quickly getting up and sitting on the edge of the bed, Max held the sheet to cover his bare lower body. He nced at the clock and realized it was already 11 in the morning. With a groan, he got up and grabbed his shorts from the wardrobe, feeling something strange.


    ¡°Looks like my clothes shifted.¡±


    Max put on his shorts and ignored the difort for a moment. His priority was to find the girl he brought to his apartmentst night, the girl who drove him crazy with three rounds of intimacy.


    ¡°Miss?¡±


    Max stepped out of his room, searching every corner of the apartment while calling out her name. However, there was no response. He sighed, cing his hands on his hips, deep in thought.


    ¡°Wait a minute. I wasn¡¯t hallucinating, right?¡± Max asked himself. ¡°I really did sleep with a girl I didn¡¯t even knowst night, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    In a sudden chill, Max¡¯s hair stood on end.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t sleep with a demon, did I?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°Oh no! What if ¡®it¡¯ is missing?¡±


    Max quickly checked himself, relieved to find everything intact.


    ¡°Phew! I was so scared that I might have lost my precious possession.¡±


    Yet, the relief could not mask his curiosity.


    ¡°But, ifst night was real, then where is the girl now?¡± Max asked. ¡°She couldn¡¯t possibly¡­¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened as if he had found thest puzzle piece toplete the picture. Nodding in realization, he chuckled with amusement.


    ¡°She must have left wearing my clothes.¡±


    Maxughed.


    ¡°Hahaha. Why did she run away like that? She didn¡¯t even realize she left her stuff in my car.¡±


    The amusement was so overwhelming that Max burst into fits ofughter, tears welling up in his eyes.


    ¡°Oh dear.¡±


    Rubbing his bare chest, Max walked into the kitchen. He opened the fridge and pulled out a box of frozen pizza. Heading towards the microwave, he warmed it up for a moment.


    While filling his empty stomach at the kitchen ind, Max grinned and shook his head. He could not believe his own actions.


    ¡°You¡¯re truly insane, Max. Out of all the girls waiting in line, you chose to be with a nameless girl.¡±


    Max took a bite of the pizza, his grin widening as he recalled snippets of that night. Their intimate encounter was truly beyond theprehension of any sane person.


    ¡°A nameless, crazy, naked girl.¡±


    He chuckled to himself, savoring the absurdity of it all.


    *

 Unexpected 1

    ¡°Okay, Max. So, this morning, I found out why both I and Dad didn¡¯t see you at Lucas¡¯s partyst night.¡±


    Max closed his eyes dramatically, holding the phone to his left ear, preparing himself for his parents¡¯ lecture.


    ¡°It¡¯s because you left with a girl.¡±


    Max let out a dramatic sigh. ¡°Is that so?¡± His face contorted into a grimace. ¡°Can I deny it?¡±


    ¡°No, you can¡¯t. Honestly,st night, I was doubtful, but I was sure I saw a girl getting into your car. Right when you called me and said you arrived at the hotel.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes opened wide. ¡°You saw?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Max. I thought you were just taking that girl for a short spin because you were too excited about your new car. Turns out?¡±


    Turns out I ended up having sex with a girl I don¡¯t even know in my new car, Mom! Please, I hope Mom doesn¡¯t know the truth.


    ¡°You left and didn¡¯te back.¡±


    Max grimaced. One of his hands messed up his carefullybed hair.


    ¡°Mom.¡± Max spoke with a weak, pleading tone. ¡°Last night, my n was just to take the girl for a short ride. You know, to enjoy driving the car?¡± He rubbed his face. ¡°It was like a test drive on these roads.¡± Then, he exhaled. ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°But?¡±


    This time, Max truly winced. In his heart, he screamed while closing his eyes.


    But I ended up test-driving her virginity, Mom! A girl I don¡¯t even know!


    ¡°Max?¡±


    Max opened his eyes and realized the call was still connected.


    ¡°Yes, Mom?¡± Max asked, his voice pleading.


    ¡°Um¡­ so, in essence, I¡¯m disappointed in you. Oh, my goodness! I thought that girl was someone you wanted to introduce to me.¡±


    As if I would introduce someone to you, Mom, when we haven¡¯t even been introduced to each other properly! We¡¯ve already met each other¡¯s lips and¡­ intimate parts!


    ¡°Yeah¡­ anyway, that¡¯s the only way to cancel your arranged marriage with Olivia. If you really want to cancel it, that means we have to inform your grandpa as soon as possible.¡±


    Max started to pull at his own hair. Then, suddenly, he pictured someone else pulling his hair.


    Grr!


    Max swallowed and lowered his hand, choosing to sit at the edge of his bed.


    ¡°Why is marriage soplicated, Mom?¡±


    ¡°Oh, dear. Marriage is about uniting two families. Of course, it¡¯splicated. If we cancel this arrangement, the Rawnie family will look for another candidate for their daughter.¡±


    ¡°Oh, God. We¡¯re humans, Mom. Not cats.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why we, as parents, are busy searching for the best match. Besides, even cats really look for their partners. As if I will let my child, who I¡¯ve carried for nine months, find a partner without any rity.¡±


    Max just shook his head with a mncholic expression on his face.


    ¡°The bottom line is, I still prioritize your feelings. You see? I epted your decision to reject Olivia. But still, there must be a reason for the rejection, Max. That¡¯s what I am waiting for, in the form of a woman you bring before her.¡±


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    ¡°You know how our family is. We¡¯ve never prioritized education or background, but it still has to be from a respectable background. So, you don¡¯t need to worry that I will reject your choice, Max. Besides, I know your taste very well. You are so thorough when ites to car matters, especially when ites to women.¡±


    Max let out a long breath. ¡°Okay, Mom. I understand.¡±


    ¡°So, back to the main point. When are you going to introduce that ivory-white gown girl to me?¡±


    Once again, Max grimaced. He felt like biting his pillow right then and there. But he tried to hold himself back and answered.


    ¡°Hopefully as soon as possible, Mom. But no matter what ¡­ she needs to mentally prepare to meet you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re right.¡±


    Max nodded.


    ¡°I will wait, but that doesn¡¯t mean you can dy it. I will keep pushing you. Especially now. Remember, you¡¯ll help Lucas at hispany soon, right?¡±


    Max nodded again. Though he knew very well that his mother could not see his nod.


    ¡°Yes, Mom. I know. I¡¯ll be at the office on time tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Help Lucas. He¡¯s already stressed out. Filling in as the department head for a while is notplicated. Besides, there¡¯s already a vice president there, right? You won¡¯t be too bothered.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom. Yes. Now ¡­ can this call be over?¡± Max asked. ¡°I want to go out, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ to meet that girl?¡±


    Max could not hold on any longer. ¡°I want to get some food, Mom. Even a cat that wants to mate is fed first, right?¡±


    ¡°Hehehe. Okay, okay. Bye, dear.¡±


    ¡°Bye, Mom.¡±


    When the call ended, Max let out a long breath as he threw his body backward onto the soft bed. He bounced a little on the mattress and stared at the ceiling of the room.


    ¡°Oh, what am I going to do with my fate next?¡± Max wondered. ¡°I clearly have no idea who that girl is, and now Mom already saw her getting into my car first. Now, how on earth can I introduce her to Mom?¡±


    Max was truly puzzled. On the one hand, he was grateful that his mother finally epted his decision to reject the arranged marriage. However, there were still terms and conditions to be met.


    ¡°Maybe I need to eat first. Once my stomach is full, maybe my brain will start thinking again.¡±


    Max quickly got up, ran his fingers through his hair, and grabbed the car keys. When the keys were in his hand, a smile spread across his face. The excitement of his new car immediately brought positive energy to him.


    He whistled as he took the elevator down floor by floor. He smiled warmly at the security guards on duty and headed to his car, parked in a special parking area.


    ¡°Wow!¡±


    Max grinned.


    ¡°Look! The red color is like a me burning in broad daylight.¡±


    Max paced around the luxury car, looking visibly delighted. Not to exaggerate, but Max¡¯s happiness was well-founded.


    Moreover, Max remembered the struggle he went through. He had to work diligently, save up, and resist the temptation of partying just to ensure he had enough money to buy the car.


    But it did not end there. When he had enough money, Max was then puzzled by which model and type to choose. However, Max, who imed himself to be an elegant man, ultimately decided that the Aventador was the most suitable for him.


    Max opened the car door and sat behind the steering wheel. Only then did he realize the condition of his car at that moment. It was a mess, and he chuckled while shaking his head repeatedly.


    ¡°All the girl¡¯s stuff is still here.¡±


    Max reached out and grabbed a beige clutch on the dashboard. He opened it and squinted, furrowing his forehead.


    ¡°A wedding reception invitation for Lucas?¡± Max asked in a low voice, flipping the invitation over.


    It was evident to Max that the item was an ess pass for the guests to enter the event. He grinned as he read the name written on it.


    ¡°Vonda Raveena Scott.¡±


    Max then thought for a moment.


    ¡°Maybe I can ask Lucas who this Vonda Raveena Scott really is. Hmm.¡±


    Max rubbed his chin, trying toe up with an innocent reason to inquire about it with Lucaster. Just then, a strange ringtone caught his attention.


    Max looked inside the clutch and found a phone ringing. It pushed him to take out the phone and see who was calling.


    ¡°Sarah Robbers?¡±


    Max burst into uncontrobleughter after reading the contact¡¯s name.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness! What kind of girl did I sleep with?¡±


    Max chuckled, trying to contain hisughter, and answered the call. As soon as he picked up the call, a girl¡¯s voice immediately started bombarding him with various questions.


    ¡°Von? You¡¯re still alive, right? Oh my God! I¡¯ve been calling you for ages, and you didn¡¯t pick up. I was almost going to call 911 to look for you. So, did you get back to your unit safelyst night? By the way, did you do something to your taxi driver? You know, your department head is on the wanted list for premeditated murder. I thought his subordinates might also be involved in taxi driver killings.¡±


    Max decided to speak up a little. ¡°Ahem!¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    Max waited.


    ¡°Von? Why does your voice sound like a guy¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Um ¡­ Miss.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God! Who are you? Why do you have Vonda¡¯s phone?¡±


    ¡°Please, Miss. Don¡¯t panic. I haven¡¯t done anything to Vonda. Just rx.¡±


    A brief silence followed. Even though he knew it in his mind, Max said.


    You¡¯re really doing nothing to Vonda, huh?


    Then the concerned voice was heard asking again, ¡°Who are you? Where¡¯s Vonda?¡±


    Max furrowed his brow, thinking quickly. ¡°Well ¡­ Vonda and I metst night.¡±


    ¡°Then?¡±


    ¡°It seems that this morning she rushed back, and her belongings got left in my car.¡±


    ¡°Her belongings got left?¡±


    Max felt a cautious tone in the voice of the person he was talking to, which made him smile.


    ¡°Not only Vonda¡¯s phone and clutch got left,¡± Max said, extending his hand to reach a pair of shoes. ¡°Her shoes were also left behind.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Vonda often goes around without wearing footwear. She says it¡¯s to prevent rheumatism.¡±


    Max chuckled amusingly. He reached for another item. ¡°And her gown was left behind too.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Vonda often wears someone else¡¯s shirt when going home. Dresses sometimes make her ufortable.¡±


    This time, Max took a deep breath before finishing his sentence, looking at the triangle-cut garment he lifted with his fingertips.


    ¡°And her fis panty was also left behind.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    *N?velDrama.Org content.

 Unexpected 2

    Vonda had never experienced a Monday morning as exhausting as that one.


    ¡°Oh God. Thanks to what happenedst night, I spent the weekend feeling down. Weekends are supposed to be for refreshing the mind, but it ended up stressing my soul.¡±


    Vonda got out of the taxi after paying the driver. She walked with a weary gait, making her way towards Sarah, who stood impatiently in the office building¡¯s courtyard.


    ¡°Vonda!¡±


    Vonda raised one hand listlessly and winced as she spoke. ¡°Please, Sarah. Don¡¯t start gossiping about celebrities just yet. I¡¯mpletely drained right now.¡±


    ¡°Wait, Von. A-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m under so much pressure, Sarah. Let alone taking sudden leave, I just remembered that this morning we have a new person joining to fill the vacant department head position,¡± Vonda interrupted, walking inside.


    Sarah followed closely, trying to interject, but she always failed.


    ¡°I thought the Development and nning Department was cursed or something?¡± Vonda rambled. ¡°The person from Mr. Bell¡¯s team is now on the police wanted list for premeditated murder. I ended up getting interrogated by the police for days, and it affected the projects that had to be postponed. Again.¡±


    Sarah nodded in understanding. She continued to try to speak, but Vonda kept on talking.


    ¡°Then, just as I was about to start working, the employee who handled the proposal actually resigned. And ¡­,¡± Vonda grimaced.


    Glek!


    Sarah tried tofort her friend, gently patting her shoulders with a stiff smile at some people nearby, who were also waiting for the elevator.


    ¡°Sorry ¡­ it¡¯s a habit. Anne Hathaway¡¯s acting really gets the audience to feel sad too,¡± Sarah whispered to Vonda. ¡°Please, Von. Don¡¯t go crazy again.¡±


    The elevator opened, and Vonda hurriedly stepped in with Sarah. Inside, she stared in surprise as other employees did not follow them in.


    ¡°We¡¯ll wait for the next elevator,¡± one of the employees said.


    Blinking, Sarah quickly closed the elevator door.


    ¡°Do you know what happened that night, Sarah?¡± Vonda asked, still grimacing.


    Sarah swallowed hard but did not dare say anything. She waited for Vonda to continue.


    ¡°I never thought I would end up sleeping with a stranger, Sarah. Oh my God. I felt like some kind of girl who ¡­ was so easily test-driven on the side of the road.¡±


    Sarah tried to suppress her giggles. She should feel sad, but for some reason, she found Vonda¡¯s story amusing.


    Vonda grinned in Sarah¡¯s embrace. ¡°I¡¯m really going crazy, Sarah.¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯re crazy, Von.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going to happen to my life next, Sarah?¡±


    ¡°The important thing is, you should always remember, Von,¡± Sarah said reassuringly. ¡°Crazy people are still worthy of living.¡±


    Vonda chuckled, and the elevator door opened. She opened her eyes and noticed which floor they had stopped on-their department.


    Sarah took a deep breath. ¡°You go to your office first. Today, you have to wee the new department head, right?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°After that, let¡¯s go, Sar?¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Sarah replied with a wise nod. ¡°Then I¡¯ll have Lily taken care of by her dad. So, her mom can have some fun. Hihihi.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Vonda grinned. ¡°This isn¡¯t the right time for you to show off your happy family to me, Sarah.¡±


    Sarah chuckled while Vonda stepped out of the elevator. She walked with weary steps, ignoring several employees passing by, and headed straight to her office, which was located next to the department head¡¯s office.


    From therge main door, Vonda entered and went to her desk. Briefly, she looked towards another door leading to a room that had been empty for over two months since its upant had reportedly fled from the police.


    Vonda sat down and checked the time on her watch, realizing it was time for her to go to the department meeting room. She took a moment to check her appearance in the mirror, ensuring her makeup and outfit looked neat before leaving.


    Vonda¡¯s feet took her to the meeting room. From outside, she could hear themotion inside, indicating thatpany personnel, including the HR department, were already present.


    She pressed the door leaf and entered, offering morning greetings and polite smiles to everyone she met inside.


    ¡°Finally, Von. Your tough times will be over soon,¡± said Simon Johnson, an HR employee, as Vonda pulled a chair and smiled back at him.


    ¡°I¡¯m really grateful, Sir. To be honest, I feel like I can¡¯t handle all the problems I¡¯m facing anymore.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡± Simonughed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I guarantee that when you see who¡¯sing to fill the department head position, all your problems will surely disappear.¡±


    Vonda ncedzily at Simon, and he continued speaking.


    ¡°He¡¯s still young and is rted to the CEO. I heard he¡¯s handsome, you know.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Vonda just uttered that single word weakly. Honestly! She felt like her body had no more energy. Even the words ¡®handsome guy,¡¯ which usually excited her, suddenly held no interest that morning. She was truly in a phase of life with no enthusiasm.


    The whispers stopped when the meeting room door opened. Simon nudged Vonda briefly, signaling her to stand up.


    Vonda got up, and a few people walked in. Feeling important in the new department head¡¯s reception, Vonda stepped forward, positioning herself correctly as the four neers stood in front.


    She observed each of them, one by one, until her gaze met the face that felt both strange and familiar.


    Two pairs of eyes locked. In a split second, the two pairs of eyes widened. Their hands simultaneously rose as they both eximed in disbelief.


    ¡°You?¡±


    ¡°You?¡±


    *

 Clarification

    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Well, why are you here too?¡±


    ¡°Did you follow me?¡±


    ¡°Hey! What if it¡¯s actually you who followed me?¡±


    The using questions were exchanged in a rapid back-and-forth, immediately drawing the attention of everyone in the room.


    ¡°Um¡­ sorry. Do you two know each other?¡±


    Sret!


    Vonda and Max both turned to Howard Davis, the head of the human resources department. They stared at the middle-aged man, who blinked back in confusion, especially when they answered simultaneously.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Howard was taken aback by their different responses.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Vonda and Max exchanged nces again. Just as Howard asked again, they looked at each other.


    ¡°Do you know each other or not?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Once more, Howard was left bewildered as Vonda and Max changed their answers, still leading to different conclusions. This left everyone else in the room equally puzzled, exchanging looks with puzzled expressions.


    Howard¡¯s hand went up.


    ¡°Yes, no. No, yes. Which is it?¡± Howard repeated, mimicking Vonda and Max¡¯s responses and pointing at both alternately. ¡°Why are the answers different?¡± He furrowed his brow. ¡°So which one is true?¡±


    Simr questions filled the minds of everyone present. Consequently, they all found themselves staring at Vonda and Max with curious expressions. The pair of them swallowed their confusion, attempting to find a suitable and safe answer to the puzzling question. Max tried not to scratch his head, silently cursing.


    Darn it! It¡¯s my first day at work, and I¡¯m already feeling like I¡¯m on trial in front of everyone.


    Vonda, on the other hand, felt like fleeing the room. How could she encounter the guy she had just slept with?


    Ugh! I just wanted a peaceful life. How can I have peace when this guy is around?


    Glek!


    ¡°Ahem!¡±


    Max cleared his throat, his mind working fast, and he tried to smile, attempting to exin.


    ¡°Vonda and I met at Mr. Hernandez¡¯s wedding party.¡±


    Sret!


    Vonda immediately turned her face away, her eyes locking onto Max with a look of fear.


    Oh, God. How did this guy know my name?


    ¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯re a bit confused,¡± Max said, trying to appear nonchnt. ¡°We sort of know each other, but not really.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Howard nodded in understanding. ¡°I see. Well¡­ even if you do or don¡¯t know each other, at least everything bes easier. You and your boss already know each other.¡± Howard felt relieved. ¡°You must have had a conversation that night.¡±


    Wow! More than just a conversation, Sir.


    Vonda swallowed her saliva, sneakily ncing at Max.


    Actually, our conversation was brief, Sir.


    Max took a deep breath, realizing Vonda was looking at him.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Howard pped his hands once. ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t need to go through the trouble of introducing the new boss and subordinate in the Development and nning Department.¡± He showed a wide smile.


    ¡°What, Sir?¡±


    ¡°What, Sir?¡±


    Vonda and Max¡¯s simultaneous questions made Howardugh. The middle-aged man then addressed the other employees.


    ¡°See! Earlier, their answers were not in sync, right? But now, after they found out they are the new boss and subordinate, they¡¯re immediately in sync.¡±


    Vonda blinked, slightly puzzled by Howard¡¯s words. Although her mind had considered the dreadful possibility, she would not rush to believe it. Truly, Vonda could not trust her own thoughts right now.


    That¡¯s why, in the next moment, she gathered the courage to ask. Her mind might be mistaken about the possibility.


    ¡°Does that mean¡­?¡± Vonda looked at Max, who also seemed confused. ¡°¡­ Is this guy¡­?¡±


    However, Vonda left her words hanging. Her heart could not bear to finish the sentence she dreaded. Although on the other hand, it seemed that Howard understood the meaning behind Vonda¡¯s words. He nodded and spoke while looking at Max.


    ¡°Sir, Vonda Raveena Scott is your deputy.¡±


    Max fell silent. It seemed like he was trying to digest the information he had just heard. Meanwhile, Howard turned to Vonda and spoke again.


    ¡°Vonda, this is Maxwell Hernandez. Your new department head.¡±


    Darn it! Howe my mind correctly predicted what would happen?


    However, there was just one thing¡­


    Max widened his eyes. Vonda did the same. This time, they were both startled by a single word.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    *


    Max took a step inside the room after Vonda opened the door for him. His head moved from side to side, slightly turning his body as he surveyed the surroundings. Seeing a neatly arranged set of sofas, Max shifted his focus to the desk on the opposite side of the room. His eyes fixated on the namete there, ¡°Deputy Head.¡±


    He exhaled once and this time, his gaze shifted to a door on the wall. The sign on it read, ¡°Head.¡±


    Max understood. Logically, they both were in different rooms.


    No, Max shook his head. He and Vonda were indeed in the same room.


    Uh-oh!


    Max growled inwardly and turned around. Just as he locked eyes with Vonda, a question immediately pointed at him.


    ¡°How did you know my name?¡± Vonda stared intensely. ¡°And why did you mention it to Mr. Davis?¡± Her forehead wrinkled with dread. ¡°We haven¡¯t been introduced. That night¡­¡±


    ¡°That night, we, uh¡­ didn¡¯t have time for introductions,¡± Max quickly finished Vonda¡¯s sentence, blinking sheepishly. ¡°Well, it was a bad attitude, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Who thinks about introductions when they¡¯re, you know¡­ busy?¡± Vonda asked, looking horrified.


    Max froze. He raised his hand to rub his nape. Meanwhile, Vonda seemed to realize the words that slipped out of her mouth, quickly wiping her face for a moment, trying to refocus her mind instead of recalling that night.


    ¡°Are you spying on me?¡± Vonda asked after finding the core of the issue. Her face showed an expression of horror. ¡°Why?¡±


    Max took a deep breath. He was taken aback by Vonda, who suddenly folded her arms and asked.


    ¡°Are you already mesmerized by me? Is that why you wanted to find out about me?¡±


    Max stared in bewilderment. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Max,¡± Vonda whispered. ¡°I¡¯m begging you. Can we just forget about that night? Please. I don¡¯t want to be the subject of office gossip, okay?¡±


    Max could not help but let out a suppressed chuckle. ¡°Wow! You¡¯re really something, Miss.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Vonda blinked, not understanding.


    ¡°Everywhere, the sentence you just said should¡¯ve been said by a guy.¡±


    Saying that, Max found Vonda¡¯s puzzled expression, which prompted him to continue.


    ¡°I beg you. Can we just forget about that night? Please,¡± Max repeated Vonda¡¯s words, showcasing his signature gesture-abination of a pleading look and amusement at the same time.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°Oh, like that.¡±


    Vonda nodded vaguely. Her mind affirmed Max¡¯s words.


    ¡°Besides, Miss,¡± Max continued, ¡°I¡¯m not spying on you because I¡¯m mesmerized by you.¡±


    Vonda blushed slightly, feeling a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°Instead, it¡¯s because you left some things in my car.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Vonda replied with a surprised expression. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Max said. ¡°There was a clutch inside with an invitation to Lucas¡¯s wedding, right? I saw your name on the invitation. Vonda Raveena Scott.¡±


    Vonda nodded in agreement.


    ¡°So, don¡¯t worry. I don¡¯t want to be the subject of office gossip on my first day either,¡± Max said, looking embarrassed. ¡°Besides, that night¡­¡±


    ¡°We both got carried away, right?¡± Vonda continued Max¡¯s paused words. ¡°I got drunk and even insisted for¡­ you know.¡±


    ¡°Intimacy with you,¡± Max added, this time continuing Vonda¡¯s sentence. ¡°Well, I just wanted to be a nice guy because you insisted.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Vonda felt a bit unsteady on her feet and quickly leaned against the wall.


    Max blinked briefly. ¡°I¡¯m right, aren¡¯t I?¡± he asked innocently. ¡°You were eager to have me¡­¡± Max¡¯s hands rose and then moved in an abstract manner. ¡°¡­ do that to you.¡±


    Vonda stared in disbelief. Her face looked truly shocked.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Max. I¡¯ve never seen a guy so kind-hearted like you in this world.¡±


    Max smiled. ¡°You¡¯re wee, it¡¯s not a bother at all.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Vonda shrieked, and Max raised his hands in defense.


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± Max took a deep breath, adopting a cautious stance. ¡°Next time, don¡¯t get drunk again. Although it wasn¡¯t too much trouble that night, please don¡¯t repeat it.¡±


    Vonda growled, clenching her fists. ¡°I can assure you that I won¡¯t get drunk again.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that, Miss.¡± Max breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°Phew.¡±


    Vonda snorted and moved to her desk, pulling out a chair and sitting down, only to find Max standing in front of her. Max¡¯s hands pressed against the table with his body slightly leaning towards her.


    ¡°Just one more thing, Miss. I have a question.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Vonda asked.


    ¡°Do you want to take your things with you?¡± Max inquired.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Max¡¯s face showed immeasurable relief.


    ¡°That¡¯s great then. It¡¯s just that, well¡­ I¡¯ve never had women¡¯s underwear in my wardrobe before.¡±


    Vonda widened her eyes.


    ¡°And it¡¯s made of spiderweb fabric! Fis panty!¡± Max looked at Vonda helplessly. ¡°Are you a spiderwoman?¡±


    Vonda screamed, ¡°No!¡±


    *

 Coercion and Responsibility 1

    ¡°So¡­¡±


    Sarah¡¯s voice came right after a waiter served their orders at the table. She picked up the ss of orange juice and sipped from it using a straw before continuing to talk.


    ¡°¡­ I was just wondering, when will Andrew¡¯s video be uploaded?¡±


    Vonda blinked wearily, looking at Sarah with a tired expression.


    ¡°Oh, with the hashtag #ShortAndrew.¡±


    Vonda muttered softly, not wanting her words to be overheard by other employees since the office cafeteria was always bustling during lunch break or because of herck of energy. The bottom line was that she shook her head once.


    ¡°Instead of that, I¡¯m actually thinking of making another hashtag.¡±


    The straw was still between Sarah¡¯s lips. Only her forehead furrowed in response to the question: what. Vonda took a deep breath of weariness.


    ¡°A hashtag that involves someone¡¯s name and is long.¡±


    ¡°Cough!¡±


    Sarah coughed, but then burst intoughter. Vonda let out a long exhale, ignoring Sarah¡¯s explosiveughter that made her eyes water.


    Then something crossed Vonda¡¯s mind. This time it was her forehead that wrinkled. Her hand, which was about to pick up the iced lemon tea ss, stopped moving.


    ¡°Come to think of it,¡± Vonda whispered. ¡°Why do I feel a bit strange?¡±


    Sarah wiped the remaining drops of orange juice from around her lips with the help of two tissue papers before asking, ¡°Strange how?¡±


    Vonda ced the ss aside, folded her hands on the table, and leaned her face slightly towards Sarah.


    ¡°Your attitude.¡±


    Sarah looked puzzled. ¡°My attitude?¡±


    ¡°This morning, when I told you about what happened that night. Why didn¡¯t you seem surprised?¡±


    Vonda just realized this. In the morning, she had unintentionally told Sarah about it. Although not explicitly, since Vonda only used the term ¡®test drive on the side of the road,¡¯ she realized that it was strange for Sarah not to ask for rification. Instead, Sarah justughed.


    Now, when she mentioned ¡®someone¡¯s name and long,¡¯ Sarahughed again without asking anything. It was as if Sarah did not need to inquire further with her. Instead of asking, Sarah simplyughed.


    ¡°Just now, when I mentioned ¡®long¡¯¡­¡±


    Sarah burst intoughter again.


    ¡°¡­ you also didn¡¯t seem surprised.¡± Vonda stared at Sarah. ¡°Aren¡¯t you curious about what happened to me, or do you not care about my misfortunes, or do you already know what happened to me?¡±


    A grin appeared on Sarah¡¯s face. ¡°Option C.¡±


    Vonda grimaced in horror. ¡°You already know?¡± she asked with a fearful tone.


    Sarah nodded. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s why I was so casual when you told me about the ¡®test drive on the side of the road¡¯,¡± she replied, pushing aside the ss of juice and switching to eat her seafood fried rice. ¡°It¡¯s because my sense of surprise overflowed on Sunday afternoon.¡±


    Vonda waited.


    ¡°When I called your phone.¡±


    Vonda gulped. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Guess what? That guy answered my call.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God.¡±


    Both of Vonda¡¯s hands shot up and held her head, as if afraid it might fall off due to the news.


    Sarahughed even harder.


    ¡°It¡¯s obvious that the guy said a few things that made me feel like I had a sudden heart attack.¡±


    ¡°What did he say?¡±


    Sarah¡¯s eyes sparkled mischievously. ¡°Are you sure you want to know the details?¡± She chuckled. ¡°He said a few things involving shoes.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hands dropped from her head.


    ¡°Dress.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°And fis panty,¡± Sarah concluded, bursting intoughter again.


    Vonda dramatically closed her eyes, biting her lower lip as she felt her head pounding.


    ¡°After that call ended, I thought I needed to have my ears checked by a doctor. Hahaha. But seriously¡­ the fact that you didn¡¯t call me back all day was enough evidence that the phone didn¡¯t belong to you. So, of course, I didn¡¯t doubt the guy¡¯s exnation at all.¡± Sarah reached for her spoon. ¡°Whoever she is, she must know what happens when a girl¡¯s shoes, dress, and fis underwear are left in a guy¡¯s car.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God. Can you just stop saying fis panty?¡± Vonda winced. ¡°Why does it feel like I¡¯ve been hearing that all day?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Anyway,¡± Vonda continued, nowpletely ignoring her beef soup order. ¡°I¡¯m really disappointed that you didn¡¯t seem concerned about me, Sar.¡±


    Sarah enjoyed another bite of her fried rice before speaking up.


    ¡°Worried about you? Oh, please, Von. I¡¯m actually more worried about that guy. Tell me about him.¡±


    This time, Sarah¡¯s gaze changed slightly, making Vonda feel a little ufortable.


    ¡°That guy was trying to force you to have a test drive on the side of the road, wasn¡¯t he?¡±


    Vonda silently prayed that no one was eavesdropping on their conversation.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Sarah nodded, pointing at Vonda with her spoon.


    ¡°It means it wasn¡¯t rape, and that¡¯s the most important thing. Even in a marriage, sexual intimacy should be consensual for both parties. In other words, since there was no coercion, I can¡¯t me that guy and treat you like a victim. No one forced or was forced.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips pouted.


    ¡°Next question. Um¡­¡± Sarah furrowed her brow in thought. ¡°I actually dismissed this possibility yesterday. No matter how crazy you are¡­¡± Sarah briefly bit her lower lip. ¡°¡­ and no matter how drunk you might be, it doesn¡¯t mean that you forced that guy, right? Because without getting drunk, you¡¯re already insane. Let alone when you¡¯re drunk.¡± Sarah shook her head. ¡°Right, Von?¡±


    Vonda froze.


    One minute¡­


    Two minutes¡­Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Three minutes¡­


    ¡°Shit!¡± Sarah cursed hysterically. ¡°Did you?¡±


    Vonda winced. ¡°Like what you said, Sarah. I¡¯m already crazy without getting drunk. Let alone when I¡¯m drunk?¡±


    ¡°Omo omo omo.¡±


    Sarah¡¯s hands trembled, and she reluctantly let go of the spoon, shifting to clutch her own heart.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Sarah¡¯s face looked frightened. ¡°¡­ did you rape the guy on the side of the road?¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    *

 Coercion and Responsibility 2

    Max took a deep breath. He had just returned to his office after enjoying lunch with thepany director, who happened to be his newly-married cousin. With a sweet smile, Max offered his apologies for not attending Lucas¡¯s wedding and promised to work diligently as needed.


    Now, he faced another trial-a phone call from his mother.


    ¡°Hello, Mom. Have you had lunch?¡± Max answered the phone.


    There was a bit of noise on the other side before his middle-aged mother responded to Max¡¯s greeting. ¡°Hello, Max. I had lunch. But¡­ even though I ate, it felt tasteless.¡±


    Max furrowed his brow. He shifted and sat in his chair. ¡°Tasteless? Is it because Bu Sophia didn¡¯t add enough salt or something, Mom?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about the salt.¡±


    Max could hear his mother sigh deeply, sounding exhausted.


    ¡°I just feel like it would be better if I could have lunch with my future daughter-inw.¡±


    Bam! Max¡¯s elbow slipped off the desk.


    ¡°Mom!¡±


    ¡°Max! I¡¯m serious! When are you going to introduce that girl to me?¡±


    Max was starting to get annoyed with the question. ¡°Oh,e on, Mom. We just talked about it yesterday. I haven¡¯t talked to her about it yet.¡±


    ¡°Sigh. But you mentioned something about visiting our house during our conversation, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Max replied wearily, ¡°No, I haven¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness. Max, you can¡¯t be like that. Being close to a girl but not giving any certainty is not allowed for guys.¡±


    ¡°What kind of certainty, Mom?¡± Max asked, wincing.


    ¡°Well, inviting a girl to our house to introduce her to the family is one form ofmitment from a guy. It¡¯s a step towards certainty.¡±


    Max rolled his eyes at his mother¡¯s words.


    ¡°Okay, let me ask you now. After that Saturday night at the party¡­ have you seen each other again?¡±


    The question made Max ponder for a moment.


    Seen each other? Of course, we¡¯ve seen each other.


    So, Max replied, ¡°Yes, we have seen each other, Ma.¡±


    ¡°For a long time or a short time?¡±


    Max blinked.


    We work in the same office, even in the same room.


    So, Max answered, ¡°We¡¯ve seen each other for a long time, Ma.¡±


    There was a sigh of relief on the other end.


    ¡°For about a week, how often do you usually meet?¡±


    Max thought again.


    We work five days a week, so we usually meet for five days.


    So once again, Max answered, ¡°Usually, about five days a week, Ma.¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡±


    Max blinked. The enthusiasm in his mother¡¯s voice nearly startled him.


    ¡°You¡¯re really serious about this girl, Max?¡±


    Max was confused. ¡°Huh? What do you mean, Mom?¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness! I never expected you to prioritize this girl so much.¡±


    ¡°Prioritize?¡± Max mumbled, puzzled.


    Max was left speechless as his mother continued with her enthusiastic remarks. ¡°Guys should be like this, Max. No matter how busy they are with work, they should always make time to meet their girlfriends. It should be a habit from now on, so it bes natural when you have a familyter. No girl would refuse a caring boyfriend.¡±


    Max stared nkly. ¡°Huh?¡±


    Make time?


    Have a family?


    Caring boyfriend?


    For some reason, those three things made Max¡¯s head spin. It felt like the ground beneath him was experiencing a localized earthquake.


    ¡°Okay, so now I can tell that you¡¯re really serious about this girl,¡± his mother added excitedly.


    Serious? Oh, no! Not at all! Max¡¯s hair stood on end.


    ¡°But it¡¯s impolite, isn¡¯t it? I¡¯ve been asking about that girl all this time, and yet I haven¡¯t even asked her name. I am not an uncivilized mother-inw, right?¡±


    Oh, my goodness. Max held his breath.


    A mother-inw? Seriously?


    ¡°What¡¯s her name, Max? I can¡¯t just refer to your girlfriend as ¡®that girl¡¯, right?¡±


    Max winced.


    What a situation to be in!


    ¡°Her name is Vonda, Ma,¡± Max reluctantly answered. He did not want to lie and make things worse.


    ¡°Vonda. Hmm, unique name. It¡¯s the first time I have heard of a girl named Vonda. She must be a limited-edition future daughter-inw.¡±


    Thatughter felt like a stab to Max¡¯s soul.


    ¡°Okay, Max. So, you talk to Vonda about when she cane to our house. I and Dad want to have a chat with her.¡±


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    ¡°You remember that, if there are no obstacles, you¡¯ll be engaged to Olivia in three months, right?¡±


    Oh, goodness.


    ¡°I hope that next Saturday night you¡¯ll bring Vonda home. That way, you can quickly wrap up things with Olivia.¡±


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    ¡°Okay, we¡¯ll talk again, my dear? You work hard. Don¡¯t disappoint anyone.¡±


    Max reluctantly agreed, ¡°Sure, Mom.¡±


    ¡°I believe in you, and that¡¯s why it was so hard to persuade you to work, right? If you suddenly agreed, it means you¡¯re ready to work.¡±


    Max did not utter a word toment on his mother¡¯s statement. He just nodded his head weakly.


    ¡°Alright then. I¡¯ll hang up now, and I will wait for good news from you. Bye.¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Bye.¡±


    The call ended. Right after, Max let out a long sigh. He suddenly felt like he was carrying a burden of hundreds of kilograms on his shoulders.


    Vonda? Coming to his house? Oh, dear! Can¡¯t life give him an even heavier burden?


    Max put his phone aside and clenched both hands. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. However, the tight tie around his neck made him feel suffocated.


    Max loosened the tie roughly and unbuttoned the top button of his shirt. He then took a deep breath, trying to fill his lungs with as much air as possible.


    Shortly after, Max stood up, attempting to control the pressure in his hands, but he was utterly helpless, ending up clenching his hair.


    Engagement with Olivia? Or bring Vonda home?


    Max paced back and forth in his room.


    ¡°On my first day of work, instead of focusing on my job, I¡¯m busy thinking about which girl I should bring to meet my parents? God!¡±


    Max groaned in frustration.


    ¡°If only that night, Mom hadn¡¯t seen Vonda getting into my car, all of this wouldn¡¯t have happened. If Vonda hadn¡¯t gotten into my car, Mom wouldn¡¯t have been so worked up about it.¡±


    Max¡¯s feet came to a halt. His eyes widened as if he just realized something.


    That¡¯s right. All of this started with Vonda, didn¡¯t it? It¡¯s all because of her.


    Max nodded with determination, ncing towards the door and murmuring to himself.


    ¡°She caused the problem, so she¡¯s the one who should take responsibility.¡±


    Without further hesitation, Max decided not to waste any more time. He walked to the door, grabbed the doorknob, and opened it roughly.


    Brak!


    ¡°Oh, my goodness!¡±


    Max saw Vonda jump in surprise in her seat, clutching her left chest. When their eyes met, he noticed Vonda¡¯s tensed expression. But it was not enough for Max to stop himself from approaching her and saying,


    ¡°I demand ountability from you.¡±


    Vonda turned pale. ¡°W-what?¡±


    Max pressed his hand on Vonda¡¯s desk, leaning towards her. Their faces were so close, and seriousness emanated from Max¡¯s eyes, causing Vonda to feel a mix of heat and cold.


    ¡°I repeat,¡± Max emphasized. ¡°You must take responsibility for what you did to me that night.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s breath felt like it stopped.


    ¡°You must take responsibility.¡±


    *

 Two Choices

    Vonda took a slow deep breath while her mind kept reying Sarah¡¯s words from their lunch conversation. Trying not to dwell on that, her brain instead initiated something entirely different.


    Me? Raped that guy? No way!


    Vonda pursed her lips, cursing herself slightly as she adjusted her position in the office chair. The memories continued to resurface.


    He¡¯s a guy, just a guy. His name is Maxwell Hernandez, Von. He¡¯s your boss now. Get on his bad side, and you¡¯ll regret it.


    But wait¡­ Why does his name have Hernandez too? It reminds me of Mr. Lucas Hernandez¡¯ name.


    Vonda shook her head once. Shortly after, a slight feeling of nausea crept over her as she entertained that possibility.


    No way! There¡¯s no way someone like him could be rted to Mr. Lucas Hernandez. They¡¯re worlds apart, like the North Pole and the South Pole.


    Her body shivered, a slight chill running down her spine, as if there was a ghost passing behind her. Especially when the conversation with Sarah echoed in her mind again.


    ~


    ¡°Let me ask you. Who initiated the intimate encounter first? You or him?¡±


    ¡°Well, it was me, Sar.¡±


    ¡°And how did he respond when you approached him? Did he reject or ept?¡±


    ¡°Well, he rejected it right away, actually.¡±


    ¡°There you have it! Then, what happened next, after you were rejected?¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡­ I climbed onto hisp and-¡±


    ¡°Stop! No need to continue. My brain is still too functional to imagine the crazy things you did next in the car.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s just like that.¡±


    ¡°So, by now, you should realize that even if any form of assault happened, it means you assaulted him, not the other way around. It¡¯s not like a girl can be assaulted and then take the initiative to be on top. Seriously, think about it. It seems like you¡¯re the one who raped him.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s true. Usually, the victim is always underneath, right, Sarah? Where do you find a girl being raped but taking the initiative to be on top? Ehm¡­ really. It seems like I am the one who raped him.¡±


    ¡°Because of that, Von. Even though it¡¯s unlikely he¡¯d report you to the police, it would still be embarrassing if people found out. Do you want your name to be in the news with a headline like this: ¡®Shocking! This girl raped a guy on the roadside.¡¯ The third fact will leave you astonished.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t want that, do you? So, just pray that he won¡¯t bring up that night again.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just scaring me, Sarah.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s logical, right?¡±


    ~


    Vonda swallowed hard. Sarah¡¯sst question was still upying her mind. Despite how logical Sarah¡¯s words were, Vonda could still think for herself.


    No guy would ever report being raped by a girl on the roadside, right? Come on. It may be embarrassing if it¡¯s investigated by the police, but wouldn¡¯t it also disturb his pride as a guy?


    Vonda shook her head, trying to convince herself for the umpteenth time that everything would be alright. Just as she was lost in her thoughts, the door to Max¡¯s office suddenly swung open with force.


    Brak!


    ¡°Oh, my goodness!¡±


    Vonda jumped in her seat, instinctively clutching her left chest, which was now pounding rapidly. A perfect mix of surprise at the loud noise and the appearance of a guy standing before her. Strangely, her initial shock quickly turned into tension that permeated her entire body as Max approached her. Then he spoke with a heavy voice that sounded loaded with emotions.


    ¡°I demand ountability from you.¡±


    Vonda paled. She hoped that she misheard or that Max was just ying around, but no guy could y around with such a serious expression.


    Oh my God! Sarah was just talking about it, and now it¡¯s actually happening?


    Trying to calm herself, even though it seemed impossible, Vonda asked with a trembling voice, ¡°W-what?¡±


    In her vision, Vonda could see the stern look on Max¡¯s face as he leaned closer to her. Both of his hands pressed against the table, his body leaning toward Vonda, bringing their faces inches apart. The seriousness emanating from Max¡¯s eyes made Vonda feel a mix of warmth and chills.


    Gulp!


    ¡°I repeat,¡± Max emphasized. ¡°You must take responsibility for what you did to me that night.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s breath felt like it stopped. Max¡¯s words left no room for any positive interpretation in her mind.


    ¡°You must take responsibility.¡±


    This time, Vonda¡¯s eyes widened, her mouth agape. Fear gripped her entire body, and there was no mistaking it.


    Oh God. This could ruin my life. I could be shamed forever. Being used of assaulting a guy? It¡¯s probably unheard of in Oceana.


    Meanwhile, Max maintained the intensity of his gaze on Vonda, not even blinking. He seemed determined to show the seriousness of his words. Vonda could feel her body turning cold, like that of a murder victim¡¯s mutted corpse. Her life seemed to be torn apart as she envisioned the grim possibilities ahead.


    ¡°D-Do you want to report me to the police?¡± Vonda asked, her voice trembling. It was as if her tongue could barely form the question.


    Max blinked. Trying to stay serious, a faint furrow appeared on his forehead, slightly confused by Vonda¡¯s question.


    ¡°The police?¡±


    Vonda took a deep breath. ¡°Isn¡¯t it too much if you report me to the police because of our ident on the roadside that night?¡±


    Max blinked again, this time adding another crease to his forehead.


    Is this girl crazy? What is she talking about? Is she drunk again?


    Considering the situation, Max leaned closer, trying to detect any hint of alcohol. However, there was none. Besides, who would get drunk during working hours?


    On the other hand, Vonda felt terrified as Max got closer to her. She saw it as an unavoidable prosecution, a demand for retribution without any possibility of a peaceful resolution.


    ¡°I know I was wrong. I did force you to¡­ to¡­¡± Vonda cleared her throat repeatedly. ¡°¡­ to sleep with me in the car. But¡­ it didn¡¯t harm you at all, did it? Does it have to be reported as rape?¡±


    What?!


    Max felt his jaw drop and choked on his own breath. He could hardly believe what he was hearing.


    Didn¡¯t harm me at all?


    His eyes widened, and he growled, ¡°You say it didn¡¯t harm me at all? Didn¡¯t harm me at all?¡±


    Gasp!


    Vonda pushed herself back until she was firmly pressed against the back of the chair, unable to retreat any further. Panic gripped her.


    You¡¯re done, Von.


    ¡°Do you think just because I¡¯m a guy, your actions that night didn¡¯t harm me at all?¡± Max pressed Vonda. ¡°Didn¡¯t harm me at all? Didn¡¯t harm me?¡±


    Gasp!


    Vonda was paralyzed with fear as Max¡¯s eyes bore into hers. She could not utter a word. Her mind was racing, and she felt trapped.


    You¡¯re done, Von.


    Vonda¡¯s lips trembled in response to Max¡¯s question, and her eyes were aze. She wanted to defend herself, but her conscience acknowledged the mistake she had made, leaving her feeling terrified.


    How much does hiring awyer cost? Would they take a treat for lunch?


    ¡°Hold on a second,¡± Vonda said, taking a deep breath. ¡°Besides¡­ it can¡¯t really be called rape.¡±


    Max¡¯s face hardened.


    ¡°Really¡­¡± Vonda blinked. ¡°Do you think a guy who was raped¡­ could still be conscious enough to put on a condom?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°It clearly wasn¡¯t rape,¡± Vonda continued, trying to muster some courage. ¡°It was consensual.¡±


    ¡°Consensual?¡± Max asked, sounding horrified.


    Vonda nodded stiffly.


    ¡°Yes.¡± She lifted her chin, trying to appear brave. ¡°Consensual.¡±


    ¡°Fine!¡± Max said. ¡°So, you don¡¯t want to take responsibility?!¡±


    This time, it was Vonda¡¯s turn to widen her eyes, while Max¡¯s face turned redder. Numerous thoughts raced through his mind.


    Mom.


    Olivia.


    Vonda.


    Arranged marriage.


    Future wife.


    Argh!


    It made Max incredibly dizzy.


    If I can¡¯t bring Vonda to meet Mom; that means I¡¯ll have to marry Olivia for real. I can¡¯t take that risk. Besides, I¡¯m just bringing Vonda home, right? At least, it will be done with Olivia. With Vonda? I can slowlye up with other excuses.


    Maybe, it won¡¯t work. She¡¯ll find out about the affair. There are many other reasons to end a rtionship. The important thing is to save myself from an unwanted arranged marriage.


    As a result, Max had no intention of backing down.


    ¡°Are you going to take responsibility or should I report you to the police, huh?!¡±


    Oh, my goodness, Max. There¡¯s no way you would report Vonda to the police with a rape usation, right? But judging from Vonda¡¯s words earlier, why does she seem afraid that I¡¯ll report her to the police? How is that possible?


    Ignoring that, Max tried to focus his gaze on Vonda. Not letting the girl¡¯s eyes shift away from his.


    ¡°Which one do you choose?¡±


    Vonda swallowed hard. ¡°W-well, we did it willingly.¡±


    ¡°Your willingness, huh?¡± threatened Max. ¡°If you¡¯re really sure we did it willingly, then you wouldn¡¯t mind if I report this to the police, right?¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness,¡± Vonda stammered.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare, would you?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s breath caught in her chest.


    ¡°Alright,¡± said Max. ¡°So, there¡¯s only one choice for you. You have to take responsibility for me.¡±


    ¡°Responsibility?¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes blinked. ¡°What kind of responsibility?¡± she asked fearfully. ¡°Paying for thepensation of three packs of used condoms?¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°What!¡±


    ¡°Or paying for thepensation of your services?¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m a gigolo?!¡±


    Vonda nearly jumped out of her seat when she saw Max getting angry. His face turned so red that she thought smoke would soone out of his head.


    ¡°S-so¡­ what kind of responsibility should I take?¡±


    Max took a deep breath once. Giving a few seconds of pause before asking.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know what guys usually do when a girl demands ountability?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened, then blinked, and then widened again.


    ¡°I want you to meet my parents.¡±


    This time, Vonda truly jumped out of her chair. Fear, dread, and a dark future loomed in her eyes.


    Meeting a guy¡¯s parents to be held ountable for her actions was never part of Vonda Raveena Scott¡¯s life n. Unfortunately, that might be a reality soon.


    shes of the future shed through Vonda¡¯s mind. She would go to meet Max¡¯s parents, apologize for her actions, and tarnish their son¡¯s reputation. However, there was one thing more important than that: she might have to drain her savings to propose to Max.


    ¡°OH¡­ MY¡­ GOD¡­.¡±


    *

 Terror of Fear

    ¡°What did Max ever do to you, Von? Why did you do such a despicable thing to him?¡±


    ¡°How could you have the heart to defile Max¡¯s purity?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there any mercy in your heart when Max begged you, Von?¡±


    ¡°Out of so many guys, why did you choose to vite our son?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re heartless, Von!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re cruel!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re an emotionless woman!¡±


    ¡°Now look at the consequences of your actions. Max is depressed. He feels worthless!¡±


    ¡°His future is ruined because of you!¡±


    Vonda shook her head, feelingpletely powerless amidst the tears andmentations of Max¡¯s parents. It made her feel guilty to the lowest point. Especially when she slightly turned her head to catch a glimpse of Max.


    Max was there. Sitting in a corner, folding his knees, burying his face on top of his thighs while his hands clutched his legs. His back was trembling, indicating that he was holding back sobs.


    Vonda was taken aback. A pair of hands gripped the cor of her shirt. The middle-aged woman¡¯s face was wet with tears, her cheeks flushed with anger.


    ¡°You must take responsibility, Von. You must marry Max.¡±


    ¡°No!¡±


    Vonda screamed. She screamed as loud as she could, making even demons flee in fear.


    Vonda gasped for breath, and her eyes opened wide instantly. She tried to see through the darkness that enveloped her.


    Vonda blinked and looked around, furrowing her brow. There was no Max in the corner. Nor were there his parents, passing judgment on her.


    ¡°Was it a dream?¡±


    Vonda swallowed her saliva. It was strange, but she could swear that her fear felt so real, causing her body to be drenched in sweat. And more than that, Vonda could feel herself trembling. Especially when she reached out her hand, trying to turn on the bedsidemp.


    A gentle yellow light instantly illuminated Vonda¡¯s room, dispelling the darkness that had surrounded her.


    Vonda sat back, leaning against the head of the bed. She reached for a ss of water avable on the nightstand and drank it quickly. Her dry throat was torturous.


    ¡°Oh, my God.¡±


    The relief brought by the water allowed Vonda to breathe more freely. The hoarseness and dryness that had tormented her disappeared instantly. For a few moments, Vonda just sat there in deep thought. That midnight, the terrible dream had sessfully disrupted her peaceful sleep.


    Nearly half an hour passed, and Vonda spent the time in silence before taking a deep breath. She turned off themp on the nightstand,y back down, closed her eyes, and said a prayer, hoping to continue her sleep peacefully.


    Time continued to pass, sessfully blurring Vonda¡¯s consciousness. Putting her back to sleep. Her subconscious mind once again tossed into turmoil.


    ¡°This is your arrest warrant, Miss Scott. You¡¯re being apprehended for charges of assault, molestation, rape, indecent behavior, and misuse of public facilities. You¡¯ll face multiple charges. Even the bestwyer wouldn¡¯t defend a client with such disgraceful crimes. And you should know that UNICEF is overseeing this case. Many parties are condemning your actions.¡±


    Vonda froze. She felt like she wanted to die when she saw her hands being seized and handcuffed by the police.


    ¡°Sir, please don¡¯t do this. I beg you. I¡¯m innocent.¡±


    Vonda struggled, trying to resist as the police dragged her towards the police car. However, she was utterly powerless against their force. There was nothing she could do but surrender, going to the police station, changing her clothes, undergoing interrogations, and facing the trial. Eventually, she would spend the rest of her life behind bars.


    Days turned into weeks, leading Vonda to the day of her first visitor. Unexpectedly, it was Max. His face looked mncholic as he spoke.


    ¡°If only you were willing to marry me, Von. None of this would have happened.¡±


    *


    ¡°Okay! I was indeedte, Von. But¡­ just five minutes and you already left?¡±


    Ugh!


    Vonda felt her head pulsing. Lately, she had not been getting any restful sleep, andst night? Not to mention restful, she was afraid to fall asleep. Afraid that she would have more nightmares.


    ¡°Yesterday, we were supposed to hang out after work, right? But then you canceled it suddenly.¡±


    As Sarah spoke for the umpteenth time, Vonda¡¯s consciousness was once again jolted awake. At that time, Vonda feltpletely drained as she walked through the office courtyard with Sarah. She sighed heavily, processing Sarah¡¯s words just now.


    Indeed, as Sarah said. Their ns to hang out yesterday got canceled. No need to ask why.


    Frightened after her conversation with Max, Vonda eventually decided to escape from the office. Just a minute before Max came out of his room! Truly an exemry deputy¡¯s move.


    ¡°Why did you suddenly leave early yesterday?¡± Sarah asked again, entering the elevator, followed by Vonda behind her. ¡°I tried to contact you, but I couldn¡¯t reach you. Is it still the same guy with your phone?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s not just my phone that¡¯s the same as his,¡± she whispered wearily.


    Sarah chuckled. ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know it¡¯s not just the phone.¡±


    Sret!


    Vonda turned and gave Sarah a sharp look. ¡°What I mean is¡­ my car key is also with him. And because I forgot where I put the spare key, my car is still parked at the hotel.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Sarah nodded. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just get it back? Go see him.¡±


    Vonda fell silent.


    ¡°Or are you embarrassed?¡± Sarah teased.


    For the umpteenth time that morning, Vonda sighed heavily. She looked up and watched the numbers change in the elevator. Wondering why the elevator seemed to be getting slower when Sarah was teasing.


    ¡°By the way, now I¡¯m curious. Is that guy handsome? How was your first experience with him? Oops!¡± Sarah covered her mouth momentarily with her five fingers. ¡°It must have been memorable, right? Because I remember you discussing size before.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re ridiculous!¡± retorted Vonda. ¡°I don¡¯t even care if he¡¯s handsome or what size he is. I just want to avoid him.¡±


    Sarah nodded her head, grinning mischievously. ¡°By the way, when you two were together, did you ask for his name? What¡¯s his name?¡±


    Vonda nced at her from the corner of her eye. ¡°Don¡¯t expect me to tell you his name.¡±


    ¡°Just say you forgot to introduce yourselves. At that time, I¡¯m sure you didn¡¯t have time for small talk anymore.¡±


    True! Although in the end I did introduce myself to him, Sarah is right. At that time, I didn¡¯t even have time to think about names or anything else.


    Vonda exhaled as the elevator doors opened. She stepped out, giving a brief wave to Sarah just before the doors closed again, taking her friend to the next floor.


    For a moment, Vonda¡¯s hand only grasped the office door. She felt torn. Never did she imagine that entering her own office would be something nerve-wracking.


    Not the kind of nervousness she often saw in dramas that usually apanied her Sunday nights. This was more akin to the anxiety of a creditor who had overdue bills for six months and a debt collector was now lurking around.


    Thump!


    Suddenly, Vonda caught the scent of a masculine aroma that felt strangely familiar yet foreign. As she tried to force her brain to recall where she had smelled a simr scent, a deep voice spoke to her. Simultaneously, arge handnded on her back, halting her hand from holding the door leaf. Taking over the action to push open the door. Opening it.


    ¡°I thought the door was locked, but it¡¯s not.¡±


    Vonda blinked, then turned her head. Max¡¯s face was right next to hers, making her eyes widen instantly. Max stared at her from such a close distance.


    ¡°Are youing in, Miss?¡± Max asked.


    Max waited a few seconds, seemingly realizing that Vonda was slightly disoriented. Vonda jerked, nodding stiffly, and stepping inside.


    Max closed the door, but he stood rooted in his spot. He watched as Vonda walked and eventually sat in her chair. Only then did Max slowly approach her and ask, ¡°Why did you leave early yesterday?¡±


    The question made Vonda, who had intended to turn on herputer, instantly change her mind. Instead of answering immediately, she raised her face and stared at Max with a terrified look.


    ¡°Are you trying to avoid me?¡± Max asked again. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Vonda blinked once. In her heart, she thought, ¡°As if! What normal girl wouldn¡¯t run away when faced with two choices from a guy like him? Seriously.¡±


    ¡°So, you want to run away from your responsibility?¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    For a moment, Vonda hesitated, then shook her head with confusion. Clearly, she shook her head; she didn¡¯t want to deal with the police, right? But¡­


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. Anyway, you have toe with me to my parents¡¯ house this Saturday.¡±


    Thump!


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°So soon?¡±


    ¡°Well? When do you want toe to my house then? Next year?¡± Max retorted, ring back. ¡°Don¡¯t you know thattely, my breakfast hasn¡¯t been with food, but with my mom¡¯s terror?¡±


    Danger! Apparently, this guy has a mother with the temperament of a female lion. Oh God. Poor me. Even before getting married, I have to face the horrors of a potential mother-inw.


    Vonda tried to calm herself, forcing her lips to curl up into a smile.


    Honestly! In her entire life, she had never thought that a guy would hold her ountable like this. Worse yet, the guy is her new boss!


    ¡°S-Sir.¡±


    Vonda took a long breath.


    ¡°I think this is not the right time and ce for us to discuss this matter.¡±


    Max furrowed his brow. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I-it¡¯s at the office.¡± Vonda forced her lungs to keep working, and for some reason, she found it very difficult to breathe. ¡°Besides¡­ it¡¯s still office hours.¡±


    Max squinted, realizing the direction of Vonda¡¯s conversation.


    ¡°It¡¯s better not to mix work matters with personal life,¡± Vonda concluded.


    As a response, Max let out a long breath. He nodded.


    ¡°What you¡¯re saying makes sense.¡±


    Max¡¯s words brought a slight sense of relief to Vonda. At least she hoped she could prolong her impending doom.


    ¡°In that case,¡± Max continued, ¡°after work, you¡¯lle with me.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    ¡°Remember! Don¡¯t try to run away.¡± Max¡¯s eyes sharpened, disying an undeniable seriousness. ¡°I won¡¯t allow you to escape.¡±


    After Max finished speaking, Vonda did not have a chance to respond as he quickly got up. Initially, she thought Max was heading to his own office, but she was mistaken. Max instead walked towards the door of their shared office.


    Max¡¯s action made Vonda stand up from her seat in surprise. Max inserted the key into the lock and without further ado, he pulled out both keys. He approached Vonda, who was frozen, and unted the keys in his hand.


    Max grinned. ¡°It seems like I have to keep both the main key and the spare key for the time being.¡±


    Both keys vanished into Max¡¯s pants pocket.


    ¡°Huh?!¡± Vonda was startled. She moved away from her desk and stopped Max before he could enter his room.


    ¡°Sir! I won¡¯t run away, so there¡¯s no need to lock the door, right?¡±


    Ignoring Vonda¡¯s hands holding onto his left hand, Max replied, ¡°If you won¡¯t run away, then it¡¯s not a problem whether I lock the door or break it entirely, is it?¡±


    Vonda shivered.


    Damn! This guy is tougher than I thought. He¡¯s actually quite clever.


    ¡°Uh,¡± mumbled Vonda, thinking of another excuse. ¡°Sir, if the door is locked¡­ what about my lunch?¡±


    ¡°Easy.¡± Max smiled. ¡°We¡¯ll order delivery. I¡¯ll treat you.¡±


    Another reason shot down.


    ¡°A-and what if I need to go to the restroom?¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Ah.¡±


    Vonda smiled, feeling a glimmer of hope. However, in the next moment, the smile vanished along with her fading hope when Max spoke again.


    ¡°You can use the restroom in my office. No need to be shy, by the way,¡± Max said, a grin appearing on his handsome face. ¡°The concept of being shy between us seems to be nonexistent now.¡±


    Vonda was left stunned, unable to say anything.


    ¡°Right?¡±


    *

 Without Conscious

    Kring!


    Coinciding with thest button that Max fastened on his shirt cuff, his phone rang. Turning his body, Max looked at the slim device on the nightstand, slightly trembling.


    For a few moments, Max seemed lost, standing still as if waiting to see if the phone would explode or not. A few secondster, the ringing stopped. Unconsciously, Max let out a sigh of relief, as if the ringing was not the sound of a phone, but rather the ring of the trumpet of the Angel of Death.


    Max turned back to continue dressing. This time, he reached for the ck jacket hanging in the closet.


    Kring!N?velDrama.Org content.


    Max jumped in surprise. With a horrified expression, he turned again, cleared his throat, and realized one possibility. If the first call could be followed up by a second, then it was highly likely that the second call would be followed by a third if this one was not answered immediately. Right?


    Finally, Max stepped away from where he stood. He headed to the nightstand and picked up the phone. When he saw the caller¡¯s name on the screen, Max took a deep breath. His hunch was right.


    ¡°Hello, Mom.¡±


    Max tried to sound as polite as possible. After all, he believed that you should never speak harshly to parents.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, this child¡­.¡±


    But the problem was that parents would never think twice about speaking sternly to their children.


    Sighing, Max mustered his courage and prepared to face his impending fate.


    ¡°You see? You dare not answer your mother¡¯s call, huh? Why? Did I do something wrong?¡±


    Calm down¡­ calm down¡­.


    Max took a deep breath before replying, ¡°I just came out of the restroom, Mom. Did you expect me to answer the phone while I was there?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± his mother eximed.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I could only answer your call now,¡± Max continued quickly. ¡°You called early in the morning¡­ to wake me up? I¡¯m already awake, Mom. I¡¯ll be leaving in a bit.¡±


    ¡°Just casually saying that I called just to wake you up. I just wanted to ask. Did you talk to Vonda yesterday?¡±


    Max closed his eyes dramatically. He felt like cursing right now, but he tried to hold back. He did not want his emotions to lead to disaster. Like having a car ident on the way to the office, for example.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Max said, trying to maintain a calm tone. ¡°Yesterday, I didn¡¯t get a chance to talk to her.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    Max forced a smile, even though his mother couldn¡¯t see it. His mind kept spinning, thinking of reasons.


    ¡°Mom, please. Do you think Vonda is a princess or something? Does she not have anything to do? Even princess has a lot of duty.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°She works, Mom. She¡¯s currently busy catching up on four months of backlog in her work.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know? She¡¯s the dupaty in her department, Mom. So, her work is not just watching gossip on TV. She¡¯s really busy.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Plus, her department head has been dealing with the police. That¡¯s why she ended up handling all the work by herself. Vonda has to work overtime and run around non-stop, all alone, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°So, can you understand that I need to find the right time to talk to her? I¡¯m afraid that if I press her like this, she might get stressed out.¡±


    A long sigh was heard from the other end. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Max. I didn¡¯t know that Vonda is a career woman with such responsibilities.¡±


    It seems that someone believes my morning talk.


    A sense of relief slowly grew in Max¡¯s mind.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Mom. If you pressure her like this, she might get scared and run away again.¡±


    ¡°Eh? I don¡¯t think it¡¯s like that, Max.¡±


    Unconsciously, a smile on Max¡¯s face slowly turned into a rxed one. Sensing the change in tone from his mother, Max was confident that he had sessfully bought some more time, once again.


    ¡°So, how about it?¡± Max asked, ¡°Can you be patient for a little while longer while I find the right time to talk to Vonda?¡±


    ¡°As if I have any other choice,¡± his mother replied, yfully.


    Max¡¯s smile transformed into an amused grin as he heard his mother¡¯s yful remark.


    ¡°Just pray, Mom. So, I can find the right moment to talk to her. And while waiting, please, Mom. Don¡¯t call me every now and then like this. It¡¯s exactly like dealing with a payday loan debt collector. It¡¯s making my life so uneasy, I swear,¡± Max chuckled.


    Laughter resonated in Max¡¯s ears, creating an image in his mind that his mother found his words amusing.


    ¡°Alright, Max, I won¡¯t nag you anymore. But instead¡­ if I don¡¯t get news from you, I¡¯lle over to your ce next Friday. Watch out if you try to avoid me.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Okay. If that¡¯s the case, take care on the road and do well at work,¡± his mother said.


    ¡°Mom. Mom?¡±


    Tut tut tut tut tut¡­


    The call ended.


    Max let out a long breath. That call left him sitting weakly at the edge of his bed. His head was pounding. He could already predict that he had no other option but to introduce Vonda to his parents.


    Otherwise, Max was certain his phone would be broken shortly, due to receiving constant calls from his mother, asking about Vonda.


    But how could he do it?


    That was the question that apanied Max on his way to the office. A question that made Max feel physically drained. He almost felt like a zombie dragging his feet.


    Max squinted. As he turned at a corner, his gaze fell across, and he saw Vonda standing still in front of the door.


    Why hasn¡¯t shee in? Is the door locked or something?


    Max quickened his pace only to find Vonda standingpletely still in front of the door. He was slightly puzzled by Vonda¡¯s behavior. However, the urge to talk to Vonda was strong, pushing him to ce his hand on the door. To his surprise, he realized Vonda¡¯s hand was already there when he touched it.


    Max put on a nonchnt face. ¡°I thought the door was locked, but it¡¯s not.¡±


    When they finally entered the room together, a heated argument ensued. And Max emerged victorious in the debate. Just as he showcased the two keys in his hand before putting them into his trouser pocket.


    ¡°It seems like the main key and the spare key have to be kept from you for a while.¡±


    Having stunned Vonda with his string of words, Max smiled triumphantly as he entered his room. A little hum escaped from his lips.


    ¡°Alright. It looks like my problem will be solved in no time.¡±


    *


    ¡°Von, where are you? I¡¯m about toe down. Hurry up, will you? I¡¯m so hungry. I could almost pass out. If I don¡¯t get some food soon, I might crawl back home due tock of energy.¡±


    Vonda let out a long sigh. Her eyes nced at Max¡¯s room and then shifted to the main door, which was still closed and locked. Max really had not opened the door at all. Thankfully, there was venttion, so air could stille in. If not, Vonda might have suffocated by now.


    ¡°Looks like you¡¯ll have to eat alone for lunch, Sarh.¡±


    ¡°Why? What¡¯s going on?¡± Sarah asked on the other end of the call.


    Once again, Vonda let out a long breath. She nced at the stack of files on her desk and began to make excuses.


    ¡°I have a lot of work piled up, Sarah. I need to finish it quickly.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you spare half an hour for lunch?¡±


    ¡°My new boss asked for the report as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ I see.¡±


    Vonda heard Sarah sigh on the other end.


    ¡°You know what? I¡¯m not surprised to see your new boss pushing you around. His personality must be very simr to Mr. Hernandez.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± Vonda furrowed her brows. ¡°Mr. Hernandez?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Are you sure you don¡¯t need lunch? Your brain seems to be slowing down,¡± Sarah teased. ¡°I mean, which Mr. Hernandez could I be talking about other than Mr. Lucas Hernandez? The CEO of ourpany.¡±


    Not visible to Sarah, but Vonda raised an eyebrow, feeling slightly confused.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t know, Von. Your new boss¡¯s name is Maxwell Hernandez, right?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened. Suddenly, she remembered Simon¡¯s words from yesterday, during Max¡¯s wee.


    ~


    ¡°Hahaha. Don¡¯t worry. I guarantee that when you see who¡¯sing to fill the department head position, all your problems will surely disappear.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s still young and is rted to the CEO. I heard he¡¯s handsome, you know.¡±


    ~


    As if that memory was not convincing enough, Sarah continued over the phone.


    ¡°He¡¯s actually Mr. Lucas Hernandez¡¯s cousin.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s jaw dropped. ¡°Oh¡­ my¡­ God¡­.¡±


    Suddenly, her body froze.


    How could I overlook that fact, dear God? Damn!


    A shiver ran down Vonda¡¯s spine.


    Oh God. That means I almost slept with the cousin of thepany¡¯s CEO, where I work!


    Gulp!


    The venttion felt useless now. Vonda could barely breathe as she realized the situation. And just as those thoughts shed through her mind, Max¡¯s room door suddenly opened. Apanied by his words.


    ¡°I hope you like extra spicy chicken mushroom noodles because that¡¯s our lunch menu.¡±


    Completely forgetting the still-connected call with Sarah, Vonda asked, her hand instinctively dropping from her ear, ignoring Sarah calling her name from the other side.


    ¡°Can you order an iced cappino, please?¡±


    Max approached. ¡°You want that?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯m feeling sleepy.¡±


    Max snorted. ¡°People who are sleepy drink ck coffee, not iced cappino.¡±


    Nevertheless, Max still ordered the cold drink. As he did, Vonda suddenly remembered her phone and blinked. She lifted it back to her ear, only to realize that the call had ended. cing her phone on the table, she sighed.


    ¡°If someone knocks on the door, call me, so I can open it,¡± Max said. ¡°I won¡¯t give you even the slightest chance to escape. Hahaha.¡±


    Vonda could not believe Max¡¯s determination.


    He really won¡¯t let me escape, will he?


    As if knowing the question in Vonda¡¯s mind, Max grinned.


    ¡°Of course, I won¡¯t give you the slightest chance to escape. Hahaha.¡±


    Vonda felt like dying.


    About thirty minutester, there was a knock on the door. After asking the office boy to wait for a moment, Vonda hurried to Max¡¯s office. Max stepped out with broad strides and opened the door, taking their lunch order and locking the door again.


    Locked it again.


    Vonda could not say anything as she witnessed the scene, especially when Max sat on the guest sofa in their office, taking out the packed meal.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you having lunch?¡± Max asked.


    Vonda snapped out of it and decided to sit as well.


    Max handed her an open bowl of noodles. He had prepared their lunch, pouring a little broth over the noodles before giving it to her.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Vonda whispered.


    ¡°This chicken mushroom noodles are delicious, you know. You should feel grateful to have this,¡± Max said as he pulled out two tissues, wiping his hands damp from the broth. ¡°And you¡¯re treated by me again.¡±


    While Vonda separated the two wooden chopsticks in her hand to eat her lunch, Max unbuttoned his ck jacket, draping it over the armrest before unbuttoning the cuffs of his shirt and rolling up the sleeves carelessly, revealing hisrge hands with familiar muscles and bones that Vonda recognized from the night before.


    Vonda¡¯s chopsticks moved, picking up a piece of mushroom and putting it in her mouth. As she watched Max pinch the chopstick between his thumb and index finger, she was suddenly reminded of the ¡®familiar¡¯ feeling that her eyes responded to earlier.


    Vonda froze, just like Max pinched her nipple that night.


    ¡°Ukhuk!¡±


    The mushroom got stuck in Vonda¡¯s throat, and even the chopsticks slipped from her hand. She started coughing.


    Max hurriedly grabbed her drink, assisting her in drinking the iced cappino. When Vonda¡¯s coughing fit subsided, Max handed her a tissue, asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Choking while eating. What were you thinking?¡±


    Vonda took the tissue, wiping her slightly messy mouth. For a brief moment, her eyes nced at Max, who reached for his chopsticks again. And for some reason, whether her brain had indeed slowed down as Sarah said, or for some other reason, she blurted out easily.


    ¡°Thinking about that night.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Max was taken aback. ¡°Thinking about that night?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened. She suddenly realized what she had just said.


    Oh God. What did I just say?


    In front of her, Max stared at her in disbelief.


    ¡°Vonda¡­¡±


    Vonda cleared her throat. Her face froze.


    ¡°¡­ are you trying to seduce me again? Here?¡±


    The chopsticks slipped from Max¡¯s hand, and he instinctively crossed his arms in front of his chest.


    ¡°Oh God, please protect me.¡±


    *

 Different Determination

    Max looked at his wristwatch. The working hours had ended. He stood up, grabbed his suit from the hanger, and put it back on. After picking up his briefcase, he walked out.


    Just as Max stepped out of the room, Vonda also stood up from her seat. Their eyes met. Max was forced to pause as something crossed his mind.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Choking while eating. What were you thinking?¡±


    ¡°Thinking about that night.¡±


    Oh no. Now I¡¯m the one thinking about her words.


    Before him, Vonda also hesitated, her face turning red. It seemed she diverted her gaze elsewhere before Max spoke.


    ¡°Come on. Let¡¯s go. We¡¯re leaving now.¡±


    Vonda bit her lower lip. Max¡¯s invitation to go home together made her feel a mix of emotions. She was not sure what scared her the most. Talking about her responsibility or the n to meet Max¡¯s parents?


    Oh dear! Good thing I¡¯m already crazy from the start, so I don¡¯t have to worry about going crazy.


    Max closed the door behind him. He took a step and could sense Vonda following behind. His hands reached into his pants pocket, taking out a key, and inserting it into the lock, turning it twice.


    Just as Max was about to open the door, he suddenly realized that Vonda was the craziest woman he had ever met in his life.


    At the exact second Max opened the door; Vonda immediately took action. With a swift and quick movement, she seized the opportunity while Max had to step back at the same time he pulled the door.


    Zuut!


    Vonda ran and said, ¡°I¡¯m going first. Bye.¡±


    For a moment, Max could only gape. Until he realized that he had just been outsmarted by Vonda. He growled.


    ¡°That girl!¡±


    Max squeezed the door leaf in frustration. His face hardened, feeling embarrassed to be outmaneuvered by Vonda at thest second.


    If I knew she would sneak away like this, why did I spend eight hours alone with her?


    Max wanted to explode.


    *


    Vonda smiled and hummed happily as she entered her apartment. Escaping from Max¡¯s trap earlier really made her feel delighted.


    ¡°Besides, who says that a guy should ask a girl for responsibility?¡± Vonda asked yfully as she sauntered in. Her two hands held different items-a food package in her right hand and a pair of high heels in her left.


    Briefly, Vonda ced the shoes in the wardrobe near the hallway connecting the unit¡¯s door and the living room, then continued her steps. She ced the food package on the living room table, thinking to take it to the kitchenter. She preferred to go to the bedroom first.


    After putting her work bag on the table, Vonda unbuttoned her shirt as she kept walking. This time, she headed to the bathroom.


    Feeling the cold water pouring over her head, Vonda gently massaged her skin. Her eyes blinked when the water sshed her face. Something came to her mind.


    ¡°Well, if I don¡¯t follow his words, I¡¯ll be at a loss too,¡± Vonda realized. ¡°My phone and car keys are still with him,¡± she said in disbelief.


    Vonda was fortunate to have gotten into the habit of giving her office phone number to her co-workers. They were used to contacting Vonda via the office phone rather than messages on her mobile phone. Of course, through email too.


    However, still, without her phone, it meant that Vonda was virtually cut off from civilization. She did not know if there were any new gossip in her group chats or other hot news.


    The most important thing was that for three days now, she had not posted any photos on her Instagram ount. At the wedding party of the CEO that night, Vonda had changed poses countless times just to get cool photos to upload. But now, she could not even upload, as her phone was still with Max.


    Vonda realized that she could not easily get all her belongings back from Max. He would definitely use her phone and car keys to control her.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    Vonda could think about buying a new phone. However, not the car keys. Moreover, both the main key and the spare key were not in her possession right now.


    It was a tough decision, but Vonda was determined to avoid Max. She would do her best topletely avoid him. She really did not want to discuss that terrifying responsibility.


    ¡°Meeting his parents?¡±


    Vonda could not believe it when sheid her body on the bed that night. Her head shook on the bed.


    ¡°Not even in my dreams would I want to meet his parents.¡±


    After muttering those thoughts, Vonda closed her eyes. Sleep and her spoken words merged, turning into a show in her subconscious. Nightmares resurfaced, disturbing Vonda¡¯s rest.


    A pair of parents broke into her apartment unit¡¯s door so brutally and then captured her. She was tied to her chair and tortured.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to take responsibility, Von?¡±


    ¡°You want to escape from the crimes you¡¯vemitted?¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Vonda swallowed her saliva.


    ¡°We won¡¯t let you roam free while Max has to suffer and live his life alone.¡±


    ¡°You have to marry Max, or we will kill you.¡±


    ¡°Nooo!¡±


    Vonda woke up from her sleep with the same uneasiness as the night before. Breathing heavily, trembling, and with sweat as big as corn kernels soaking her face.


    ¡°Oh God.¡±


    Her chest rose and fell in a hurry, as if during her sleep she couldn¡¯t breathe. Highly frustrated, Vonda wiped her face up to her head. She looked so miserable and grimaced.


    ¡°Even in my dreams, I am forced to meet Max¡¯s parents.¡±


    Vonda clenched her hair.


    ¡°Not in the real world, not in the dream world,¡± she said in horror. ¡°Why do I have to experience such terror?¡±


    *


    Max looked at his phone the next day, waiting for a moment, and then smiled. He raised his hand, cing it on his waist, and looked up before bursting intoughter.


    ¡°Hahaha.¡±


    Maxughed heartily.


    ¡°Finally, today can start without any phone drama from Mom.¡±


    However, hisughter stopped after a moment. His face drooped, and this time his forehead wrinkled.


    ¡°Ah! Just because Mom didn¡¯t call this morning doesn¡¯t mean the problem is solved.¡±


    Max scratched his head, shaking it once. He realized that his happiness from a few seconds ago was quickly reced by another reality.


    ¡°Anyway, I can¡¯t keep avoiding Mom forever. There¡¯s no way I¡¯ll avoid her for the rest of my life. That¡¯s just impossible.¡±


    Max thought.


    ¡°When I think about it, why do I feel so unlucky? How can I meet two women who both drive me crazy like this?¡± Max asked irritably. ¡°First Mom, and now there¡¯s Vonda.¡±


    Max took a deep breath. In his mind, he was determined. Whatever happened, today he had to be able to get Vonda to talk to him privately. He had to make an agreement with Vonda to meet his parents.


    So, don¡¯t be surprised when Max entered and found Vonda sitting in her chair, the guy immediately locked the door. Yesterday, Max had nned and deliberately brought the spare key for their room. He did not want Vonda to take the initiative to hide the key and outsmart him again.


    Vonda blinked her heavy eyes, anticipating Max approaching her with a threatening gaze.


    ¡°You won¡¯t be able to escape from me again. Watch out. I¡¯ll drag you backter.¡±


    Vonda swallowed her saliva, while Max immediately walked into his room, leaving Vonda to ponder her next move. She was searching for ideas to escape from Max, and it came in the form of Sarah. Vonda grinned meaningfully, confident that she could escape againter in the evening.


    When it was time to leave the office, Max had already anticipated Vonda¡¯s cunning n. So, he thought of a way to restrain her. Max held Vonda¡¯s hand as soon as she got up and left her desk.


    Vonda was surprised, her eyes staring in disbelief as she realized Max¡¯s big hand holding hers.


    Max narrowed his eyes, looking at Vonda.


    ¡°Why?¡± he asked. ¡°Does it remind you of something else when I hold your hand like this?¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    Max paused for a moment, then lifted Vonda¡¯s hand up. Right between their faces, forcing Vonda to raise hers to see Max¡¯s dark brown eyes. His question made her breathless.


    ¡°Um¡­ holding your hand like this¡­ does it remind you of that night? When I held your hand and pinned it against the wall?¡±


    Vonda widened her eyes, realizing where Max¡¯s conversation was heading. But as if everything needed to be clearer, Max added.


    ¡°When we did the wall lizard style.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God.¡±


    Vonda gasped in horror; her face filled with terror. One of her free hands rose and covered her agape mouth.


    ¡°What you say, oh my goodness!¡±


    Max grumbled, ¡°It¡¯s like you¡¯ve never thought about what you want to say.¡±


    He lowered his hand and let out a long breath. Vonda¡¯s face turned red because of his words. Strangely, it made Max feel amused instead of annoyed like a few moments ago.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Max said. ¡°Let¡¯s go back and stop by first. Anywhere, as long as we can talk alone.¡±


    Vonda shut her mouth tightly, allowing Max to pull her hand as he moved towards the door.


    At the door, Max was in a dilemma. One hand held Vonda¡¯s hand, and the other held his work bag. He nced at Vonda briefly, who had her bag slung over her shoulder. Without hesitation, Max extended his work bag towards her. Vonda, looking confused, epted it with her free hand. As Max turned the key, Vonda waited with anticipation.


    Creak!


    Max pulled the door open, and a cheerful greeting immediately hit his eardrums.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Sir.¡±


    Max blinked, finding a girl standing in front of the room, smiling, and greeting him warmly. Confused as he did not recognize her, Max politely responded.


    ¡°Good afternoon.¡±


    The girl maintained her smile. ¡°I¡¯m Sarah, Sir. Sarah Roberts from the HRD department.¡±


    ¡°Sarah,¡± Max said the name with confusion, feeling a sense of familiarity and muttering softly, ¡°Sarah Robbers?¡±


    Sarah blinked in response. ¡°Huh?¡±


    As if realizing what had slipped from his lips, Max stuttered, ¡°Oh, Sarah. What can I do for you?¡±


    Confusion was evident on Sarah¡¯s face, but before she could answer, the half-open door, which Max was still holding, swung open with force.


    ¡°Sarah!¡±


    Sarah¡¯s gaze shifted to Vonda, whom she suddenly noticed standing behind the door with¡­ Sarah blinked again, this time at Vonda¡¯s hand, which was held by Max!


    Oh, my! Vonda.


    Vonda noticed Sarah¡¯s gaze. She immediately pulled her hand away from Max¡¯s loosening grip due to Sarah¡¯s presence.


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    Max turned around, ring at Vonda for letting go. He felt like swearing, but Vonda beat him to it, handing her work bag to him, seemingly drained of energy.


    ¡°Excuse me, I¡¯ll leave early.¡±


    As if nothing had happened, Vonda grabbed Sarah¡¯s hand and quickly fled from there, leaving Max gripping his work bag and grumbling with frustration.


    ¡°That girl!¡±


    *

 Battle of Strategy

    Vonda was in such a hurry and fear as she pulled Sarah¡¯s hand. Ignoring Sarah¡¯s repeated ¡®ah eh ih oh uh,¡¯ she continued to walk fast. They almost stumbled a few times due to their hurried steps, but luckily, their high-heeled shoes had trained their feet to avoid falling.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Von?¡± Sarah asked, her forehead creased with concern.


    Vonda did not pay attention to Sarah¡¯s question. Even if she wanted to answer, it was not the right time. There were too many ears around to hear her words. Besides, she preferred to run away as far as possible first. She was not even sure if she had been breathing properly since they started running.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Around fifteen minutester, when they were finally inside the elevator, Vonda could take a relieved breath. Ignoring the other employees in the lift, she leaned her back against the cold elevator wall, trying to catch her breath.


    ¡°Thank God. Finally, I can escape again,¡± Vonda said, still gasping for air.


    Sarah looked at Vonda with a furrowed brow. ¡°Escape?¡±


    Ignoring Sarah¡¯s question again, Vonda continued to swallow her saliva multiple times. Her throat felt parched, and she kept shaking her head in disbelief, which only irritated Sarah.


    Unfortunately, Sarah was not a patient woman, so it was not surprising when she eventually dragged Vonda towards the parking lot as soon as the elevator opened on the ground floor.


    ¡°Sarah?¡± Vonda blinked in confusion. ¡°Where are you taking me?¡±


    Sarah did not answer. Instead, she tightened her grip on Vonda¡¯s wrist, leaving her puzzled.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Sar?¡± Vonda asked.


    Sarah huffed. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I asked when you dragged me while panting from your room.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened, remembering that incident. ¡°Ah.¡±


    She swallowed her saliva, and her shoe got caught.


    ¡°Eh.¡±


    Thankfully, Vonda did not fall. The thought of tumbling in the parking lot sent shivers down her spine.


    ¡°Ih!¡±


    Searching for the issue with her shoe, Vonda noticed that one of the heels had worn down. No wonder it felt ufortable.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Realizing that her shoe¡¯s heel was damaged, Vonda got irritated. It was a clear sign that she needed to buy new shoes next month. She grumbled.


    ¡°Uh!¡±


    In front of her, Sarah exhaled, abruptly stopping near a car, almost causing Vonda to bump into her.


    Sarah turned her body, pointed at Vonda, and said, ¡°We need to talk before we go back, Von.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips pouted, muttering softly, ¡°Why does everyone want to talk to me privately?¡±


    Sarah¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°I-I mean¡­ sure,¡± Vonda said quickly, then smiled. ¡°Where do you want to talk?¡±


    Without answering, Sarah took out the car keys from her bag, pressed the smart key, and the nearby car beeped.


    ¡°Get in.¡±


    Vonda chuckled yfully upon hearing Sarah¡¯smand and wasted no time following her into the car.


    Throughout the journey, Sarah remained silent, probably afraid that conversation might distract her from driving and lead to an ident. Thus, silence filled the air during the trip.


    After a while, Sarah turned the steering wheel, and the car entered a cafe area. Ten minutester, they were seated at a table, waiting for their orders.


    While Vonda was busy scanning the surroundings of the cafe, Sarah did the opposite. She folded her hands on the table and squinted her eyes at Vonda.


    ¡°Enough. Don¡¯t try to divert the focus this afternoon. You know your judgment day ising soon.¡±


    Sarah¡¯s voice sounded threatening, making Vonda slowly meet her gaze. She appeared embarrassed, and Sarah took a deep breath.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel like exining something to me?¡± Sarah asked, with a furrowed brow. ¡°Honestly, I need an exnation. Everything feels so tangled up in my head.¡±


    Vonda pouted.


    ¡°Because¡­ because¡­ oh my gosh. I clearly saw you holding hands with the new boss. It was tight, too. But he¡¯s only been working for a few days. Um¡­ three days, Von. And you¡¯re already at the stage of holding hands in your rtionship?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s pout deepened.


    ¡°And earlier¡­ I couldn¡¯t have misheard when he called me ¡®Sarah Robbers,¡± Sarah grimaced. ¡°That embarrassing nickname¡­ where did he get it from to call me that?¡±


    Vonda swallowed and absentmindedly scratched her neck, which was not itchy.


    ¡°Von?¡±


    Vonda surrendered, taking a quick breath.


    ¡°Before I tell you,¡± Vonda finally said, ¡°I just want to make sure of something. You don¡¯t have a history of heart disease, do you?¡±


    Fear reflected on Sarah¡¯s face. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Hesitatingly, Vonda bit her lower lip, taking a few seconds before continuing her question.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t forget about the incident when I test drove by the roadside, right?¡±


    Sarah could only nod. ¡°Yes, I didn¡¯t forget. I could never forget such a crazy and warm incident. I won¡¯t forget it my whole life.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Vonda let out a long breath. ¡°The point is¡­ you don¡¯t know who the guy was, right? The guy who might be a victim or a suspect in that roadside test drive tragedy¡­ you don¡¯t know, do you?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s question made Sarah¡¯s eyes widen, and a word escaped her mouth as if she was choking.


    ¡°Shit!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes rolled once. She was not surprised at Sarah¡¯s response.


    ¡°Is it him, Von? The guy who tests drove you that day? Maxwell Hernandez?¡± Sarah teased. ¡°The handsome guy?¡±


    Exhausted, Vonda forced her head to nod.


    ¡°Wow! Great! Unbelievable!¡± Sarah eximed.


    Vonda blinked. ¡°Great?¡±


    ¡°Once the hymen is broken, huh? And it¡¯s a hot guy like him who did it.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hand reached for the menu. Without any warning, she immediately rose and hit Sarah¡¯s head with the object. She then sat back down in sync with Sarah¡¯s exmation of ¡°Ouch!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy, Sar,¡± Vonda said, squinting. ¡°How could you say that when I¡¯m already feeling so confused?¡±


    Sarah rubbed her head. ¡°Why confused? Both of you are adults, right? Um¡­ did he use a condom that night?¡±


    ¡°Oh my God!¡±


    Vonda regretted hitting Sarah¡¯s head with the menu. She thought she should have hit her with a chair instead.


    Sarahughed, then teasingly asked, ¡°I¡¯m sure he used a condom, haha. So, what¡¯s going on now? Is he addicted to you? Falling in love?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s shoulders slumped instantly. ¡°No, but the scariest thing in the world is happening.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s asking me to take responsibility, Sarah. He wants me to meet his parents.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Sarah widened her eyes, her mouth agape. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Not the other way around?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°How is that even possible?¡±


    ¡°How should I know,¡± Vonda replied with a wry grin. ¡°And that¡¯s whytely I¡¯ve been trying to avoid him. As if I would go and meet his parents.¡±


    Sarah fell silent, her brow furrowed. ¡°It¡¯s weird. Besides, how could you end up being test driven by him?¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, Sar. That night I was drunk. I got into the wrong car. I thought he was my taxi. Turned out he wasn¡¯t.¡±


    Sarah nodded repeatedly. ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Then I thought we could forget about all the idents. I mean, it was unintentional, right? If anyone suffered a loss, it was actually me. But why is he asking for responsibility from me?¡±


    ¡°Hehehe.¡±


    Vonda red as Sarah spontaneously burst into giggles.


    ¡°Sorry, sorry, but¡­ what else can I say? This is so rare. Where do you find a guy asking for responsibility like this?¡±


    Vonda took a moment to catch her breath, deliberately dying her response because a waiter came with their orders. After the waiter left, she spoke.


    ¡°That¡¯s the problem. He said he would report me to the police if I refuse to meet his parents.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s quite a serious issue, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, Sarah?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because, well¡­ Maxwell Hernandez is still rted to the CEO, right? Mr. Lucas Hernandez. He¡¯s his cousin. You can¡¯t cause trouble with the CEO¡¯s family.¡±


    The straw slipped from Vonda¡¯s lips, smudging her pink lipstick. Only then did she curse, and this time, she said, ¡°Shit!¡±


    Sarah put on a sympathetic expression. ¡°I don¡¯t know which is worse, going to jail or getting fired dishonorably without severance pay.¡±


    Vonda felt like half of her life had already gone.


    ¡°Oh, God.¡±


    *


    On the brink of the weekend, that morning, Max woke up feeling annoyed. Even taking a shower and shampooing couldn¡¯t ease the headache. His mind was a mess. Especially when he looked at his bedside table. Therey his phone, and he let out a long sigh.


    ¡°Mom hasn¡¯t contacted me for days. If I can¡¯t bring Vonda home tomorrow, oh my God. I can¡¯t imagine how mad Mom would be.¡±


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    Max grumbled, opened the wardrobe door in frustration, and pulled out a neatly folded shirt to put on.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness. Vonda is really something else, huh? These past two days, she purposely had Sarah fetch her from my office. As if she wanted to parade me in front of her.¡±


    Max snorted, trying to figure out a way to introduce Vonda to his parents. Just then, a soft ding caught his ears.


    Ding!


    Max nced at the bedside table. His furrowed forehead wrinkled even more when he heard the unfamiliar notification tone. As he approached, he realized the sound was noting from his own phone. It was from another phone nearby.


    Max reached for that phone. It was none other than Vonda¡¯s phone. Oddly enough, for the past few days, Max had spontaneously been regrly charging her slim device. He kept it alive.


    Max¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly as he saw a notification message appear on Vonda¡¯s phone. Ignoring and not caring about the notifications that hade in so far, Max felt a different sensation that morning. Curiously, he swiped down the phone screen and saw several notification messages. But one caught his interest.


    ¡°Andrew?¡±


    Max murmured softly. His mind wandered back in time.


    ¡°Where do you want to go, Miss?¡±


    ¡°Can we go to the police station? I want to report Andrew and Livy for their indecent actions in the office! They were ying ¡®horsey¡¯ in the office.¡±


    Max remembered the scene from that night. He did not need to ask anyone to know who Andrew really was.


    ¡°So, this is Andrew who the one ying horsey,¡± Max chuckled.


    Somehow, Max¡¯s curiosity led him to focus on a small message visible in the notification. This time, he deliberately pulled down the phone screen to read the message.


    Andrew:


    Vonda! You haven¡¯t paid this month¡¯s car installment yet, have you?


    The amusement on Max¡¯s face disappeared. It was reced by a stunned expression of disbelief. He recalled their other conversation from that night, about the car, down payment, and this month¡¯s installment.


    Max ced Vonda¡¯s phone back on the bedside table. He turned to the wardrobe to get dressed. But when Max looked at his reflection in the mirror, a soft sigh escaped his lips.


    ¡°Does this guy have no shame at all? How can he talk about car installments with an ex whom he¡¯s hurt like that?¡±


    Max turned around, picking up Vonda¡¯s phone again to reply through the notification.


    Vonda:


    Have you no brain or shame?


    You cheat on me, and yet, you still talk about car installments?


    Just sell your manhood to pay for it.


    Max smiled contentedly as he ced the phone back on the bedside table, then turned back to the mirror, muttering to himself.


    ¡°Such a shame for us guys. How could he contact his ex through chat just because of car installments, and he even sold the car.¡±


    Adjusting his tie around his neck, Max suddenly couldn¡¯tprehend.


    ¡°Vonda, despite her crazy personality, is quite beautiful. Her position proves that she¡¯s intelligent andpetent. How could she end up with a guy like that?¡±


    Max pulled the tie¡¯s end, tidying it up before reaching for his jacket.


    ¡°With her looks alone, she could easily get a wealthy guy, not to mention with her intelligence. But why did she end up with a shameless guy?¡±


    His hands, which were smoothing thepels of the jacket, stopped abruptly. His forehead furrowed as something crossed his mind.


    ¡°Phone. Looks.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened, and a mischievous grin formed in his mind.


    ¡°I think I know how to coax Vonda into talking to me or even more than that.¡±


    Maxughed triumphantly.


    ¡°I can make sure she willingly agrees to meet my parents.¡±


    Max, who was initially in a sulky mood, suddenly became enthusiastic as he drove to the office. When he arrived at Vonda¡¯s workspace, he ced the keychain on her desk. Vonda looked at him puzzled.


    ¡°I won¡¯t force you to talk to me again. I¡¯m tired. Forcing a girl is not my style.¡±


    Confusion immediately registered on Vonda¡¯s face, surprised by Max¡¯s sudden change of attitude. However, a momentter, Max managed to freeze her. It was when Max leaned towards Vonda and asked.


    ¡°I just want to ask. Have you ever heard of an employee who chose to resign because their nude photos were spread around the office?¡±


    *

 Debate

    Vonda instinctively turned her face when she heard the door opening. Finding Max entering and immediately looking at her, Vonda became cautious. She could not help but wonder because she sensed a different aura from him this morning.


    Initially, Vonda thought Max would scold her relentlessly with bursts of frustration because she always managed to escape from him, something that made her proud. But it seemed Vonda was wrong. Instead of venting his emotions as usual, Max did something beyond Vonda¡¯sprehension. He ced the room key on her desk.


    This naturally made Vonda frown in confusion. Her mind, which had been wondering all this time, became even more puzzled.


    Does he not want to lock the door anymore? Why? Is he giving up or tired of being confined with me for eight hours?


    As if hearing the unspoken question in Vonda¡¯s mind, in the next moment, Max spoke up.


    ¡°I won¡¯t force you to talk to me again. I¡¯m tired. Forcing a girl is not my style.¡±


    Vonda instantly gaped. She could not believe what her ears heard.


    Does this mean he won¡¯t force me to take responsibility anymore? Seriously? Is this not a lie? Is this for real? Thank goodness.


    However, Max managed to make Vonda freeze from head to toe in less than a minute. It was when Max leaned toward Vonda and asked.


    ¡°I just want to ask. Have you ever heard of an employee who chose to resign because their nude photos were spread around the office?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s breath caught in her chest. Her face turned pale. On the contrary, Max looked at Vonda scornfully. He stood up and walked towards his door, ignoring Vonda.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Max blinked when he felt his left hand being held by Vonda so quickly. The girl lifted her face and looked at Max.


    ¡°W-what do you mean?¡±


    Allowing Vonda to hold his hand, Max used his right hand to open the door. He would go inside even if he had to take Vonda with him.


    ¡°You know what I mean,¡± Max replied while cing his work bag on the desk. He lowered his gaze and looked at his hand that Vonda was still holding. Then he shifted his gaze to Vonda¡¯s eyes, which were looking at him fearfully.


    Max swallowed. He suddenly felt guilty. Vonda¡¯s frightened expression made him realize that he had touched a scary part of her. After all, which girl would want her nude photos to spread?


    However, the image of his parents suddenly appearing in his mind made Max clench his jaw. His face turned serious as he asked Vonda.


    ¡°Do you want to know what I have on my phone?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face turned even paler. Her grip on Max¡¯s hand loosened. Still, Max took out his phone from his pocket. Holding the phone with one hand, Max used his index finger to unlock it, and the screen lit up. With agility, Max opened the gallery and showed Vonda a photo.


    ¡°Maybe these shoes would make a great first post on my Instagram ount.¡± Max chuckled as he looked at a picture of Vonda¡¯s shoes in her shoe cab. ¡°How about this caption? ¡®The missing shoe must belong to Cindere. But the missing pair of shoes must belong to Vonda.''¡±


    Vonda red at him.


    ¡°Next.¡±


    Max scrolled again, this time revealing a photo of a white gown. Vonda did not need to blink to know who the owner of the gown was.


    ¡°I bet you took photos with your friends during the party yesterday, right?¡± Max grinned. ¡°How would it look if I uploaded a picture of the dress among a guy¡¯s shirts?¡±


    How would it look?


    Vonda shuddered.


    ¡°If that¡¯s not enough, I have something even more interesting here.¡± Max¡¯s eyes gleamed mischievously. ¡°Ta-da! It¡¯s none other than our Spiderwoman underwear!¡±


    Max burst intoughter while Vonda could only watch helplessly as her underwear was being photographed by Max using a small hanger. It seemed like Max had a talent for arranging women¡¯s underwear disys.


    ¡°P-please,¡± Vonda stammered. Her grip on Max¡¯s hand tightened. Her voice trembled, ¡°You can¡¯t be serious, right?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes met Vonda¡¯s innocent gaze. ¡°Do you doubt my courage?¡±


    You¡¯re a goner, Von.


    A mischievous grin appeared on Max¡¯s face. He nodded repeatedly as he muttered to himself.


    ¡°Alright. If you think I won¡¯t be serious and maybe you also think these photos aren¡¯t strong enough¡­¡± Max took a deep breath. ¡°Let¡¯s see one photo that will make you remember that night. You were sleeping on my bed, by the way. Under the same nket I used.¡±


    Saying that Vonda¡¯s life was on the line was not an exaggeration. In fact, that¡¯s exactly what was happening. Especially when she saw Max¡¯s thumb slowly move, as if wanting to swipe the screen to change to another photo. In her entire life, looking at a nude photo of herself was something Vonda never wanted to experience.


    ¡°No! Don¡¯t!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hand shifted, this time holding back Max¡¯s hand holding the phone. At that moment, she bit her lower lip, her heart pounding in fear, while Max quietly let out a sigh of relief.


    Oh no! If my bluff earlier had been a little less convincing, Vonda probably wouldn¡¯t be panicking like this. Fortunately, she got scared first and stopped me. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t be looking at her nude photos. She¡¯d be seeing pictures of my mom¡¯s cat. They¡¯re both naked, but Vonda doesn¡¯t have fur, right?


    Max blinked.


    Actually, she does have a little fur. Eh?


    ¡°Ehm!¡± Max cleared his throat again. ¡°Why?¡± he asked, pretending to be challenging. ¡°Don¡¯t want to see your body covered in my love marks?¡±


    Oh, my goodness.


    ¡°N-no,¡± Vonda whispered,pletely panicked. ¡°Please, don¡¯t talk like that here. This is the office. What if someone overhears?¡±


    Max furrowed his brow. ¡°If someone overhears?¡± he repeated. ¡°So, what if someone overhears? I won¡¯t lose anything. After all, we live in Oceana, where thew doesn¡¯t really apply. Women are always the ones who suffer.¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Vonda admitted that, with some rationality left in her mind.


    ¡°For example, when ites to being cheated on or cheating, it¡¯s always the woman who is med. If a woman is cheated on, it¡¯s because she didn¡¯t satisfy her husband, so he cheated. If a woman cheats, she¡¯sbeled as promiscuous,¡± Max grinned. ¡°See? Our culture always mes women. So even if our photos were to be leaked, who would be the one embarrassed?¡±


    Now, even Max could feel the tremor in Vonda¡¯s hand as she held his.


    ¡°I beg you, don¡¯t spread those photos.¡±


    A victorious smile appeared on Max¡¯s face. ¡°ording to you, why do you think I dared to consider spreading our photos?¡±


    Vonda swallowed hard.


    ¡°Why?¡± Max pressed again. ¡°Come on, answer. Why?¡±


    Vonda was no longer able to swallow. Her mouth felt dry instantly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t want to answer?¡±


    With a wry grin and a brief bite on her lower lip, Vonda mustered the courage to respond.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I don¡¯t want to take responsibility.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it!¡± Max eximed. ¡°You know where you¡¯re wrong, right?¡±


    Vonda was utterly at a loss.


    ¡°You forced me to satisfy your desires on the roadside,¡± Max said. ¡°Even though we didn¡¯t know each other, you kept forcing me.¡±


    Damn it! Vonda could not retaliate to Max¡¯s words.


    ¡°I tried to refuse, but you kept insisting.¡±


    Vonda felt as though, in Max¡¯s eyes, she had been branded as a rapist. She felt a little ashamed but also somewhat indignant.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡±


    ¡°But, even if you were forced, howe you still took the initiative to put on a condom?¡±


    ¡°Uhuk!¡±


    Max coughed instantly upon hearing Vonda¡¯s question. Meanwhile, she stared at him with a blushing face.


    ¡°Well, if I didn¡¯t use a condom, then I¡¯d be at an even greater disadvantage. D-do you realize how high-quality my sperm is?¡± Max asked, his face also blushing. ¡°You¡¯d be lucky if your eggs were fertilized by my top-notch grade AAA sperm.¡±


    ¡°Huh?!¡± Vonda could not believe her ears. ¡°If I get pregnant, that means I¡¯ll be the one suffering.¡±


    ¡°Oh ho.¡± Max shook his head. ¡°Are you hoping to get pregnant with my child? So that you can have a handsome child like me too? I won¡¯t let you get pregnant with my child without marriage.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    ¡°My sperm is very valuable, and only marriage can repay it.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    ¡°Do you think my seed is somemon seed that any woman can get?¡± Max continued shaking his head. ¡°Oh, no.¡±


    Vonda blinked. She asked foolishly. ¡°So, you think I want your seed?¡±


    ¡°Whatever!¡± Max retorted. ¡°The important thing is that due to everything that happened between us, and because my parents have also seen us together, you have no other choice but to take responsibility.¡±


    Take responsibility.


    Pregnancy.


    Sperm.


    All those words were spinning in Vonda¡¯s head, making her feel dizzy. What responsibility should she take? Meeting Max¡¯s parents alone would not be enough, right?


    Vonda winced. Of course, meeting Max¡¯s parents would not be just a simple visit with a basket of fruits, handshakes, small talk, and then she goes home. That¡¯s impossible, right? What responsibility should she take?


    Oh God. Vonda looked at Max.


    Why do I have to marry a guy like him? Seriously.


    *

 Impromptu Meeting

    Max ced his hands on his hips, and the intense gaze he fixed on Vonda made her even more anxious. Realizing this, Max felt a surge of pride, his nose slightly ring with arrogance. He felt like he was on top of the world.


    Hahaha. Do you dare challenge Maxwell? Too early, a thousand years, Vonda.


    ¡°So,¡± Max said, breaking the silence between them. ¡°Are you willing to take responsibility, then?¡±


    Vonda fell silent, her lips slightly parted, leaving Max wondering what excuse she woulde up with this time to avoid the situation. However, she remained speechless. Max furrowed his brow, waiting, and there was a faint murmur from Vonda.


    ¡°Aaa.¡±


    With one small step, Max closed the gap between them, causing Vonda to instinctively tilt her head upwards, keeping her eyes locked on Max with caution.


    ¡°Aaa?¡± Max echoed in a soft voice.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes blinked as she noticed Max mimicking her murmur, feeling embarrassed. Especially as she found Max pressing closer, taking one small step after another, forcing Vonda to take a step back.


    ¡°Ehm.¡±


    Max raised an eyebrow. Without saying a word, he managed to both challenge and mock Vonda, making her feel even more helpless.


    ¡°What?¡± Max asked again. ¡°Now you¡¯re willing to speak properly to me?¡±


    Vonda swallowed hard.


    ¡°Shall we have a proper conversation, or do you want to witness a newmotion in the office this afternoon? Well, which one will you choose?¡±


    Once again, Vonda could only swallow her words in the face of such a threat. Max¡¯s eyes gleamed challengingly at her, and a smirk appeared on his face, provoking her further.


    ¡°Alright. Alright.¡±


    Phew!


    Relief flooded through Max¡¯s chest. He felt like his lungs had expanded twofold. Breathing felt so much easier.


    Vonda took a deep breath, clenching her fists. ¡°I will talk about this with you, butter, after work.¡±


    The relief Max felt seemed to halt in its tracks.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll talk when we leave the office.¡±


    Max narrowed his eyes. Suspecting that Vonda¡¯s words were just another excuse, he still tried to maintain his threat.


    ¡°Fine. You can stall, but remember this. Running away means shame.¡±


    Vonda froze. Her eyes blinked rapidly, unable to respond to the threat, and Max walked away from her, returning to his seat, and sitting there casually.


    Vonda¡¯s chest rose and fell as she struggled to control her emotions. It was understandable. Which girl would not be in chaos if threatened with leaked nude photos?


    Seemingly enjoying the game, Max was seen ying with his phone in his seat. He pulled the corners of his lips, forming a subtle smile. Vonda interpreted it as a lewd grin as he looked at her photos. In her heart, she cursed.


    Pervert!


    Without uttering any excuse or word of farewell, Vonda stomped her foot once, turned around 180 degrees, and left Max¡¯s office, making sure to close the door behind her.


    ¡°Oh, yes!¡±


    Max clenched both fists and rejoiced with enthusiasm. He was especially thrilled when he realized the door was tightly shut, preventing his voice from being heard outside.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Max stood up and performed some moves. His hands raised, legs spread, and hips swayed.


    ¡°Uye! Uye! Uye!¡±


    Max was ted.


    ¡°Mom, your future daughter-inw ising.¡±


    Oops!


    Max¡¯s dance came to an abrupt halt. His eyes blinked as he realized what he had just said.


    ¡°I mean, your fake future daughter-inw,¡± Max quickly corrected himself.


    The thought of Vonda bing his parents¡¯ daughter-inw sent shivers down Max¡¯s spine. ¡°I hope she doesn¡¯t really be mom¡¯s daughter-inw.¡±


    Max muttered under his breath, shivering.


    ¡°If she bes my wife,¡± Max whispered in horror. ¡°Oh, God! Every dark alley will be our memories.¡±


    Damn it!


    *


    p! p! p!N?velDrama.Org content.


    Vonda scowled as she stared at theputer screen. Her ten fingers pounded the keyboard with full force, creating loud noises.


    p! p! p!


    Vonda was truly furious, venting her frustration on the innocent keyboard. Perhaps, in her mind, she was imagining herself hitting Max.


    ¡°Damn him! If it wasn¡¯t necessary, I wouldn¡¯t have epted his offer to talk privately.¡±


    p! p! p!


    ¡°Taking responsibility? Just the thought of proposing to him already gives me goosebumps.¡±


    p! p! p!


    ¡°Damn it! What if I actually end up marrying him? I can¡¯t even imagine what would happen.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s fingers stopped moving, hovering over the keyboard. Her mind was filled with thoughts.


    Sperm grade AAA?


    Vonda closed her eyes dramatically.


    ¡°Letting his sperm fertilize my eggs¡­ that means I have to think about which street name would be suitable as my future child¡¯s name.¡±


    She grumbled, realizing she had no other choice but to ept Max¡¯s offer, which seemed the most logical thing to do.


    ¡°As if I haven¡¯t had enoughmotion with Andrew and Livy. If I end up being the next gossip topic, my level will be equated with theirs.¡±


    A sigh escaped Vonda¡¯s lips before she resumed typing, focusing on her work that needed to bepleted before the approaching weekend.


    A soft knock sounded at the door. Vonda¡¯s head lifted, and after a moment of contemtion, she responded firmly.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    As soon as Vonda gave her permission, the door opened, revealing a beautiful face. Vonda kept her gaze steady as the unfamiliar woman entered the room. Without wasting any time, the woman approached her. Vonda asked with a furrowed brow.


    ¡°Who are you, and what do you need?¡±


    The woman smiled and answered without sitting down, ¡°I¡¯m sorry in advance. I came here to find Mr. Max Hernandez.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Max Hernandez?¡± Vonda asked, a hint of confusion in her voice, then blinked as if she just realized something. ¡°Oh, Mr. Max Hernandez.¡±


    ¡°Is he here?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°Yes, he¡¯s here. What do you need with him?¡±


    ¡°Well, this is actually not work-rted. I¡¯ve been trying to reach Max, but he never replied.¡±


    Earlier it was Mr. Max Hernandez and now just Max?


    ¡°I want to meet with him. Can you tell him that Olivia is looking for him?¡±


    Vonda immediately stood up from her seat, this time really assessing the appearance of the woman named Olivia. She was dressed formally, which momentarily made Vonda mistake her for one of their employees.


    ¡°Ehm, I¡¯ll meet with Max first. You can take a seat,¡± Vonda said, pointing to the avable couch for Olivia to sit on.


    Olivia nodded, stood up, and sat down. Sneaking nces, Vonda walked towards Max¡¯s office and knocked on the door once before entering. She approached Max at his desk, who immediately looked up, staring at her warily. In his mind, Max wondered why Vonda came to see him again.


    Is she trying to cancel the deal we made earlier? Hmm.


    ¡°Max,¡± Vonda said.


    Vonda shook her head, covering her mouth.


    ¡°Sir.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Max felt a shiver hearing Vonda address him like that.


    ¡°So, you finally realize to call me ¡®Sir¡¯?¡± Max asked, surprised. ¡°We¡¯ve been working together for almost a week, and you never call me ¡®Sir¡¯.¡±


    Vonda grimaced. Max¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°By the way,¡± Max continued, ¡°Why are you here? Is it work-rted or personal matters?¡±


    Vonda held her breath for a moment, feeling embarrassed by the question. However, she chose to stay calm and answered honestly.


    ¡°Someone is looking for you outside. It¡¯s not a coworker or business-rted,¡± she replied. ¡°She¡¯s not here for work purposes.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Olivia,¡± Vonda answered. ¡°Her name is Olivia.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°W-what did you say? Olivia?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°Yes, Sir.¡±


    Max suddenly stood up. ¡°You said Olivia is here?¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Vonda nodded again, taken aback by Max¡¯s reaction. ¡°Y-yes, Sir. Her name is Olivia.¡±


    Max grumbled. ¡°Damn it! Why did she have toe here and bother me?¡±


    Ignoring Vonda, who stood there stunned, Max immediately got up and left the room.


    As Max was already outside, Vonda, who had just been about to leave her spot, suddenly quickened her pace. Right after she heard themotion from the guy.


    ¡°Oh my God, Via! What are you doing here?¡±


    Vonda peeked her head out from the door crack, as if trying to assess the situation. Should she leave or stay inside Max¡¯s room? With her still sane mind, Vonda could instantly guess that it was a personal matter connecting her boss with Olivia.


    Is this another one of his test-drive victims?


    Vonda rubbed her chin.


    This is worth watching, Audience.


    ¡°Vonda!¡±


    Vonda jumped in surprise, her face turning red as she realized Max was giving her a sharp look.


    Ups!


    Vonda felt embarrassed for being caught peeking.


    ¡°Ehm.¡±


    Vonda stepped out of Max¡¯s office and politely approached Max and Olivia, who seemed to be in an uneasy situation.


    ¡°I will prepare some tea for both of you. Please wait,¡± Vonda said, ignoring Max¡¯s response, and hurriedly left the room.


    Hah! Luckily, I can always rely on my brain in desperate situations.


    As Vonda arrived at the pantry and prepared two cups of tea, she could not help but keep ying with her thoughts without pause.


    It must be a girl who demands ountability from him. It can¡¯t just be an old friend he hasn¡¯t seen for a long time.


    Vonda stirred the tea in each cup, making sure the sugar hadpletely dissolved.


    Not to mention, Max¡¯s shocked expression earlier gave off an aura of surprise. Moreover, the atmosphere between them was entirely different.


    Vonda giggled.


    Finally, I experience the fear of being hunted down by someone demanding ountability.


    Vonda grabbed a tray and arranged the two cups with saucers on it before leaving the pantry.


    In front of the door, Vonda paused her steps. She took a deep breath and exhaled softly, trying to calm herself from the urge to burst intoughter, imagining how panicked Max must have been.


    Karma pays in cash. Right? Right!


    Feelingposed, Vonda used her hand to press the door, slowly pushing it open, entering the room, and her ears picked up Olivia¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Your mom said her name is Vonda.¡±


    ¡°Via!¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, Max! Is she your deputy? Her name was on the desk. And you called her ¡®Vonda¡¯ just now.¡±


    Vonda froze. Max and Olivia, who had just realized her presence, stared at her. She stood there awkwardly in front of the door.


    Gradually, the door behind Vonda moved, closing by itself. Meanwhile, in front of her, Olivia asked with a trembling voice.


    ¡°Are you Max¡¯s girlfriend?¡±


    *

 Not Disputes 1

    Of all the possible responses a girl could have when asked, ¡°Are you his girlfriend?¡± Vonda opted for the lowest tier response: silence.


    What could Vonda have possibly responded with anyway? Just a few minutes ago, she was ecstatic to find Max meeting with a woman, and now she was the one facing that woman.


    No kidding! The moment they faced each other, Vonda was immediately cornered by the most effective and potent question that made her body go stiff.


    Olivia turned her attention back to Max, who had stood up to join them.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s true. You¡¯re the girl Riley mentioned earlier. Yes. The girl is you. You¡¯re Max¡¯s girlfriend.¡±


    Max closed his eyes dramatically.


    Oh, my goodness, Mom. Why did you reveal it to Via like that?


    ¡°You¡¯re the one named Vonda, right?¡± Olivia turned to Vonda, this time even asking a trivial question, given the namete on the desk.


    Unable to deny it, Vonda nodded.


    Olivia seemed to assess Vonda, looking her up and down, and then back up again. Max groaned.


    ¡°So, are you really Max¡¯s girlfriend?¡± Olivia asked as she stepped away from her spot.


    Max reached out, trying to hold Olivia¡¯s hand. ¡°Via, please. This is the office. Don¡¯t cause a scene here. Let¡¯s talk about thister, I promise I¡¯ll exin everything.¡±


    Olivia¡¯s steps halted. She briefly looked at Max¡¯s hand holding her wrist, then her gaze met Max¡¯s.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to cause a scene either, Max. But ¡­ seriously. You should have thought about this before ignoring my messages and rejecting all my calls. Just so you know, I don¡¯t believe in ter, I promise I¡¯ll exin everything.''¡±


    On the other hand, even though Vonda understood the one being used this time was Max, it still made her feel uneasy.


    Oh dear, this is getting serious. I never dreamed I¡¯d be involved in a lover¡¯s quarrel like this.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes red at Max.


    What a shameless guy. He already has a girlfriend, yet he still dares to ask me to meet his parents? He trulycks manners.


    Max took a deep breath.


    ¡°Okay, sorry. But you know I¡¯ve been busy with work here. I¡¯ve only been here for a few days, Via.¡±


    ¡°Lies!¡±


    That single statement interrupted the conversation between Max and Olivia, making both look towards the source of the voice. It was none other than Vonda.


    Max gave her a furious look.


    What is this girl doing?


    Ignoring the warning in his eyes, Vonda continued speaking.


    ¡°Mr. Hernandez hasn¡¯t been that busy this week. He¡¯s only checking some backlog work.¡±


    Damn it!


    Olivia squinted her eyes at Max.


    ¡°Oh. Did you hear that? Even your own girl is saying this.¡±


    ¡°Oh God,¡± Max whispered.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss. I¡¯m not his girlfriend,¡± Vonda interjected.


    ¡°Not?¡± Olivia asked incredulously. ¡°Isn¡¯t that what I heard when Riley mentioned our arranged marriage being canceled?¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± Max mumbled.


    ¡°Arranged marriage?¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You and Max have an arranged marriage?¡±


    Olivia smiled bitterly. ¡°Yes. I¡¯m Olivia Jade Rawnie. We¡¯ve already been betrothed.¡±


    ¡°Goodness,¡± Vonda whispered in horror, looking at Max, who appeared embarrassed.


    Max took a step closer to Vonda, concerned when he noticed that the tray in her hand was trembling, as if her grip suddenly weakened.


    ¡°Vonda, listen. I can exin everything,¡± Max said, his gaze unwaveringly fixed on her.


    Ignoring all office decorum, Vonda asked with a sharp tone, ¡°What else is there to exin? Can¡¯t you see that I¡¯ve already been used of ruining your arranged marriage?¡±


    Max cleared his throat, trying to find the right words. He took the tray from Vonda¡¯s hand and ced it on the table, preventing it from falling.


    ¡°Wait, Von. You¡¯ve misunderstood the situation,¡± Max said cautiously.


    ¡°How did I misunderstand?¡± Vonda asked sharply.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like you caused our arranged marriage to be canceled,¡± Max shook his head. He tried to calm her down. ¡°It¡¯s not like that.¡±


    ¡°But the fact remains that I¡¯m the reason why your arranged marriage was called off,¡± Olivia argued.


    Max turned to Olivia, who suddenly interjected. But before he could respond to Olivia, Vonda spoke first.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss Rawnie. I really have no rtionship with him.¡±


    Olivia snorted. ¡°Don¡¯t lie. I heard it from Max¡¯s mom. She said that Max is dating a girl named Vonda.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God. I haven¡¯t even been dating him, Miss,¡± Vonda said.


    ¡°So, you mean his mom lied to me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not his mom who lied to you, but Max,¡± Vonda replied.


    ¡°How could it be a lie? Weren¡¯t you both together at Lucas¡¯s wedding party?¡±


    ¡°Oh no.¡±


    ¡°Why? Can¡¯t deny it, right? Come on, be honest.¡±


    While the two girls exchanged words, Max, standing between them, nced briefly at the door, making sure it was closed. At least that gave him some relief, knowing that no one from outside would overhear their heated argument.


    Argh!


    Max gripped his hair.


    I wonder how some guys can even think about having two wives. I haven¡¯t even married, and the two girls are already like MMA fighters. Oh God. Please, help me.


    ¡°Via,¡± Max whispered, using one hand to hold Olivia¡¯s hand while trying to restrain Vonda¡¯s hand with the other. ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Both Vonda and Olivia looked at Max and responded with the same question.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Gah!


    Max cleared his throat.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be emotional, both of you,¡± Max said. ¡°Let¡¯s discuss this issue with a clear head.¡±


    Just from their facial expressions, Max already suspected that no one had a clear head in a situation like this. Neither Vonda nor Olivia looked like they were in a good mood.


    ¡°I know our situation is difficult, but it doesn¡¯t mean you two have to fight like this. Regardless, I don¡¯t want you both to fight because of me.¡±


    Vonda red at him, as did Olivia.


    At the same time, Vonda and Olivia looked at each other and spoke in unison, surprisingly in agreement.


    ¡°Just for you!¡±


    ¡°Just for you!¡±


    Max was taken aback.


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    *

 Not Disputes 2

    Wait a minute. There seems to be something wrong with the scenario here. Max was sure of it. Normally, when there are two women fighting and being mediated by a handsome guy like himself, they would both insist on fighting for him. Right? Of course, that¡¯s how it usually goes. But what was happening now?


    Max nced alternately at Vonda and Olivia, who chose to sit opposite each other while he sat in the long chair in between them. Max looked annoyed as he watched Vonda and Olivia both sipping their tea.


    Damn it! Why am I the only one not getting any tea here?


    However,pared to the tea matter, Max was wondering about what happened earlier.


    What does she mean?


    ¡°So, in essence, Vonda. I ¡­,¡± Olivia paused for a moment. ¡°Maybe we don¡¯t need to be formal here? After all, this is a personal matter.¡±


    Vonda nodded.


    ¡°Uh, Via.¡± Max tried to join the conversation.


    Olivia gave Max a sharp look. ¡°Hold on, Max. This is a girl¡¯s matter.¡±


    Max took a deep breath.


    ¡°In short,¡± Olivia continued, shifting her attention back to Vonda, ¡°I came here just to ask Max for some rity. Whether he already has a girlfriend or not. Because if he does, then I don¡¯t need to bother finding a guy who can help me. Not to be rude, but that way, our arranged marriage can be canceled.¡±


    ¡°Prruut!¡±


    Tea sprayed from Vonda¡¯s mouth. She hurriedly grabbed a tissue to clean up the mess.


    ¡°W-what?¡± Vonda stuttered.


    Olivia ced her tea on the table and smiled. ¡°If Max and you are dating, that means I¡¯m free from this arranged marriage.¡±


    Oh my God.


    Olivia¡¯s words made Vonda feel like she was in aedy carousel with her head upside down. Olivia¡¯s exnations lined up neatly in Vonda¡¯s mind.


    Arranged marriage. Cancetion.


    Damn it!


    Vonda finally realized it.


    So, this girl didn¡¯te here to confront me for intruding in their rtionship? Instead, she actually wants to confirm whether their arranged marriage can be canceled? Canceled because she thinks me and this crazy guy are dating? Impossible. That can¡¯t be.


    Vonda shook her head. ¡°Max and I are not dating, Via. I¡¯m not his girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Olivia looked innocently at Vonda. ¡°Riley said Max has a girlfriend named Vonda.¡±


    Max looked at Olivia,pletely disbelieving what she said.


    What else did Mom tell her?


    ¡°Oh ¡­ that¡¯s not true, Via.¡±


    Max turned to Vonda. The girl looked determined to refute Olivia¡¯s statement.


    ¡°Not true?¡± Olivia blinked a few times. ¡°Then you two should just make ite true.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Just start dating each other. Problem solved, right?¡±


    ¡°Eh? That¡¯s impossible!¡± Vonda shuddered. ¡°I absolutely don¡¯t want to date him.¡±


    Olivia took a deep breath. ¡°You have to date him. So that we won¡¯t be arranged together again.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to. You and Max should still be arranged together.¡±


    ¡°No, it can¡¯t be like that. You two are already dating.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What really matters is that Max should be with you, Via.¡±


    As Vonda and Olivia exchanged arguments, Max was busy looking around, turning his head left and right. He watched the two stubborn women going at it, and it was driving him crazy. He felt like he was about to explode.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    Max growled, causing Vonda and Olivia to stop in their tracks. Both looked at Max, confused.


    ¡°Are you both really going this far?¡± Max asked in frustration. ¡°Can¡¯t you see that your words are undermining my self-esteem? Am I so unattractive that neither of you wants to defend me?¡±


    ¡°We never agreed to this arranged marriage from the beginning, Max,¡± Olivia replied.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s true, Via. But ¡­ you don¡¯t have to go so far to cancel it. Using this kind of drama. It¡¯s like being embarrassed to be arranged with me,¡± Vonda responded.


    Max let out a frustrated sigh. This time, he turned to look at Vonda.


    ¡°What about you, Von? Do you dare go against your own boss?¡±


    ¡°I just don¡¯t want to be the reason for someone¡¯s arranged marriage being canceled. Like I¡¯m not pretty enough, and that¡¯s why I¡¯m snatching someone else¡¯s man.¡±


    Max winced. ¡°Oh my God.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not snatching anyone from anyone, Von,¡± Olivia said. ¡°You don¡¯t need to feel guilty.¡±


    Vonda insisted, ¡°I still don¡¯t want to.¡±


    ¡°Besides, Max is handsome, right? Look at him. He¡¯s good-looking.¡±


    Max became annoyed. ¡°Now you¡¯re praising me when it¡¯s toote, Via.¡±


    But Olivia ignored Max¡¯s frustration. ¡°He¡¯s tall. He has a good body. Handsome face. When else can you find a guy like him?¡±


    ¡°Why does it feel like you¡¯re a salesperson offering a product?¡± Max retorted.


    Olivia ignored Max¡¯sment. Her gaze was still fixed on Vonda. ¡°Right?¡±


    Vonda nced at Max. Just briefly, as she realized something. Even without looking, she could sense the truth in Olivia¡¯s words. Yes, Max was attractive as a man. But still ¡­ Vonda shook her head.


    ¡°However, I still won¡¯t be Max¡¯s girlfriend,¡± Vonda insisted. ¡°I can¡¯t be in a rtionship with a guy like him.¡±


    Oh, ho! A guy¡¯s pride was hurt here.


    ¡°A guy like me?¡± Max asked, sounding offended. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Vonda frowned. ¡°You¡¯re a fierce and rough guy. I don¡¯t like that kind of guy.¡±


    ¡°Eh? Max fierce? Rough?¡± Olivia asked, surprised.


    ¡°nder!¡± Max retorted. ¡°When have I ever been rough or fierce towards you? When have I ever acted aggressively towards you?¡±


    Vonda raised her chin, pointing at Max. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t know because you¡¯re a guy.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please. Tell me then,¡± Max challenged. ¡°Don¡¯t just make baseless usations because you¡¯re a woman.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not making baseless usations,¡± Vonda replied.


    ¡°So, what is it then?¡± Max pressed. ¡°Show me the proof that I¡¯ve been fierce or rough towards you. What¡¯s your evidence?¡±


    Vonda narrowed her eyes, crossed her arms in front of her chest, and without hesitation, she said, ¡°The proof is that you made me unable to pee all day!¡±


    Eh?


    *

 Revenge

    ¡°Here you go, Sir. Please sign this,¡± whispered Vonda. Her voice was almost too faint for even the demons to hear.


    However, Max heard her. He took the pen and immediately scribbled his signature on the paper handed by Vonda.


    ¡°Thank you, Sir.¡±


    Vonda waited for a moment. However, there was no response from Max. So, with a pouting expression, she walked away. When she returned to her desk, Vonda muttered to herself.


    ¡°I should be the one sulking, not the other way around. Why is he the one acting pitiful? Ugh! Men can be so overly sensitive.¡±


    She ced the document that Max had just signed into her desk drawer before turning back to her still-runningputer.


    ¡°Because if you look at it from any angle, it¡¯s clear that I¡¯m the one at a disadvantage here. He doesn¡¯t know how it feels not being able to use the restroom after being beaten repeatedly throughout the night, does he?¡±


    Vonda continued to grumble and curse under her breath.


    ¡°Well, he¡¯s just a guy. He probably has it easy. He can¡¯t understand a girl¡¯s suffering.¡±


    That was Vonda. After the meeting with Max and Olivia, she vented all her frustrations. She felt like a prey cornered by two predators.


    This made Vonda wonder. She could not believe there was a girl who did not want to be matched with a guy like Max. It made her curious.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t Via want to be paired with Max? He¡¯s, well¡­ handsome,¡± Vonda squinted her eyes. ¡°Maybe Max has some secrets that scare away girls. That could be it.¡±


    However, Vonda realized something. Regardless of Olivia¡¯s pressure, she did not really have a choice. There was a nude photo of her on Max¡¯s phone that could wreak havoc if it ever got out.


    As a result, it was no surprise that afternoon, right when it was time to leave the office, Vonda, with her sanity intact, found herself waiting for Max toe out of his room. When Max finally emerged, he nced briefly at her.


    ¡°Why are you still here? Haven¡¯t run away yet? I didn¡¯t lock the door, did I?¡±


    Max remarked with a sarcastic tone. Furthermore, he was no longer speaking formally to her, unlike how superiors usually address subordinates.


    Vonda took a deep breath and grabbed her work bag. ¡°Don¡¯t we need to talk one-on-one?¡± she said.


    Max assessed Vonda¡¯s seriousness through the corner of his eyes. ¡°Oh.¡± Max smiled mockingly. ¡°Someone¡¯s bing self-aware, huh?¡±


    Vonda remained silent, not saying anything.


    ¡°Come on,¡± Max finally invited.


    Vonda and Max left the room together without saying a word during their journey. Their coworkers who crossed paths with them furrowed their brows, wondering what was going on.


    How often do superiors and subordinates leave the room together? Their minds wandered, and some began to specte. Oh my! It¡¯s Friday and they¡¯re leaving together? That means¡­


    Beep! Beep! Beep!


    Max immediately pressed the smart key in his hand when they arrived at the office parking lot. Vonda swallowed nervously. Suddenly, she felt anxious and her body trembled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Max said, looking away. He slightly forgot where he parked his car in the morning, but eventually found it. It was slightly blocked by a building pir. ¡°I don¡¯t bring a Lamborghini to the office when you¡¯re around. I¡¯m afraid the car might trigger you. It would be disastrous if you asked for having sex with you again by the roadside.¡±


    *


    Throughout the journey, Vonda chose to remain silent. Just look at what happened earlier. Max¡¯s words truly embarrassed her to the core.


    Vonda stole a nce at Max. His serious expression made her secretly lose her nerve. When Olivia left, Vonda noticed that Max seemed preupied. She was certain that if she dared to disturb his thoughts with her words, he would not hesitate to embarrass her again.


    Vonda felt that Max was in a sharp-tongued mode at that moment, and she would not allow herself to be his target.


    Thirty minutes passed. Max drove the car into an upscale apartmentplex. Vonda observed the surroundings, enjoying the view she could not see the night she hurriedly fled.


    Max invited Vonda into an elevator, and they arrived on the thirty-ninth floor. With so many floors to pass, Vonda almost thought she would fall asleep inside the lift.


    ¡°Juste in. No need to be shy, consider it your own home.¡±


    Max¡¯s words felt like a sarcastic remark in Vonda¡¯s ears.


    This guy, seriously. Why is he acting all sensitive now? He¡¯s usually not like this.


    However, Vonda realized that she had only known Max for a few days. And even then, it was not a deep acquaintance. So, she had to admit that she did not really know Max. Feeling awkward, she took off her shoes and followed Max¡¯s steps.


    While walking, Max said, ¡°Ah. If you want to get your clothes that you left behind¡­ you can take them from my closet.¡±


    Behind Max, Vonda sneered at him. ¡°Well, why don¡¯t you get them for me? Why should I do it myself?¡±


    Max turned around. ¡°Didn¡¯t you usually open my closet by yourself?¡±


    Oh my! Dramatically, Vonda closed her eyes. She felt like cursing him thoroughly. Max was really getting on her nerves since earlier.


    Oh God. What did I do wrong?


    ¡°Why? Are you afraid of losing control if you enter my room now?¡± Max asked sharply.


    Vonda opened her eyes wide again. Her mouth agape in response to the sharp question.


    ¡°Well then. You sit down. I¡¯ll get them for you.¡±


    Vonda remained silent, allowing Max to get up while she chose to sit on thefortable living room sofa.


    Shortly afterward, Max returned. He had taken off his jacket and tie, leaving only ck boxers with an unbuttoned white shirt that reached his elbows. He ced arge cardboard box on the table.


    ¡°These are your belongings.¡±


    Quickly, Vonda reached for the box, opening it and finding her shoes, clutch, dress, phone, and underwear.


    Ups!


    She quickly put the box back on the table after hurriedly taking her phone. She turned it on and was not surprised to see so many notifications.


    Max crossed his arms, observing Vonda checking her phone. A littleter, she spoke up.


    ¡°Are you replying to Andrew¡¯s messages?¡±


    Vonda was taken aback, then she went back to reading the messages on her phone.


    Andrew:


    Vonda! You haven¡¯t paid this month¡¯s car installment yet, have you?


    That message indeed left Vonda puzzled. However, more than that¡­ Max¡¯s reply truly left her speechless.


    Vonda:


    Have you no brain or shame?


    You cheat on me, and yet, you still talk about car installments?


    Just sell your manhood to pay for it.


    Vonda took a deep breath and then shifted to Andrew¡¯s response to Max¡¯s message.


    Andrew:


    Oh! So, this is how you are now? Why? Are you really heartbroken after breaking up with me? You said you¡¯re beautiful and smart. Many guys would want you. Where¡¯s the proof? Oh, by the way, where¡¯s your car? I want to use it next Sunday. Since you¡¯re not using the keys, I might as well borrow it.


    Max observed Vonda¡¯s reaction, wondering what other messages Andrew had sent to her that caused her to sigh and speak softly.


    ¡°How else could my fate lead me to encounter such a model-like guy?¡±


    Vonda ced her phone on the table. She rubbed her face, feeling a sense of anger, embarrassment, or disappointment. She was not sure, but she just felt exhausted.


    However, despite all that, Vonda felt something was off. When she saw Max casually taking her phone and reading the message, her suspicions grew. Then his hand moved quickly, and Vonda furrowed her brows.


    ¡°What are you typing?¡± she asked.


    Max remained silent. Only a momentter, he ced the phone back on the table. Immediately, Vonda read the reply message.


    Vonda:


    Because I¡¯m beautiful and smart, that¡¯s why I¡¯m selective in finding a guy. I was fooled once by a model-like guy like you. No money, no shame. Are you sure your manhood still works properly? It probably goes limp after five minutes. You know what? I¡¯ve met a guy who canst three rounds in one night. Each round is around ny minutes. And that doesn¡¯t even include the warm-up and cool-down. Oh my. Can you imagine that I¡¯m not being able to pee the next day because of him?


    ¡°Oh my God.¡±


    Max replied with a nonchnt smile as he noticed Vonda¡¯s shocked and unbelieving gaze. It was as if he had not done anything that could cause a drastic drop in her blood sugar.


    ¡°What do you mean, Max?¡± Vonda asked.


    Max grinned. ¡°It¡¯s all the same, Von.¡±


    Vonda immediately understood what he meant. Of course, he was referring to the action she had taken in front of Olivia. From the ecstatic expression on his face, she could tell that Max had intentionally used the situation to embarrass her in front of Andrew as well.


    Vonda growled, realizing Max¡¯s cunningness. Without realizing it, she clenched her hands tightly.


    ¡°Crafty fox with nine tails,¡± she muttered.


    Max¡¯s eyes sparkled mischievously.


    ¡°I only have one tail, by the way. And you know for sure where it¡¯s positioned.¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Vonda froze,pletely unable to say anything else.


    *

 Weird Deal

    Vonda briefly considered deleting the message that Max sent. However, it was toote. The two gray checkmarks had turned blue, indicating that Andrew had already read it. Now, there was nothing she could do. She could not possibly say, ¡°Sorry, it was a mistake.¡±


    Who would believe that?


    Knowing she had no other choice, Vonda simply put her phone back into her work bag. At the same time, she heard a series of notification sounds.


    Ting! Ting! Ting!


    Vonda swallowed. She knew those were replies from Andrew. However, she refused to open them. Not now or ever. Instead of worrying about Andrew¡¯s replies, Vonda found herself thinking about Max!


    Just look at him. He appeared so rxed, sitting there with a slight pout on his lips as he whistled casually. His eyes were sparkling mischievously. Vonda could not believe it. He seemedpletely unfazed after sending such a message to Andrew.


    ¡°What do you mean by sending a message like that to Andrew?¡± Vonda asked, her voice bing hysterical as she scooted closer, nearly touching the edge of the sofa arm, bringing her and Max within close proximity. ¡°You want to embarrass me?¡±


    Max pretended to be surprised, deliberately showing a shocked expression to make it more obvious. As an improvisation, he even raised both hands to cup his cheeks.


    ¡°Eh? Embarrass you?¡± Max shook his head disbelievingly. ¡°I¡¯m actually helping you. A guy like that should be treated just as ruthlessly.¡±


    Vonda growled. ¡°Yes, but you didn¡¯t have to talk about me not being able to pee!¡±


    Max chuckled.


    ¡°That¡¯s not about replying to him; you were embarrassing me instead.¡±


    Max¡¯s chuckle ceased. His narrowed eyes reced the amusement. ¡°Don¡¯t you remember? You said the same thing in front of Olivia.¡±


    Vonda bit her lower lip. She could not retort because, of course, she wouldn¡¯t forget that.


    ¡°So, are you trying to get back at me?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Oh ho.¡± Max shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s not about getting back at you, Von. It¡¯s just paying you back in kind.¡± He grinned. ¡°Embarrassment is repaid with embarrassment. Fair, right?¡±


    Oh, God.


    ¡°Besides, you started it all. Why did you have to talk in front of Olivia about me not being able to pee?¡±


    ¡°Because it¡¯s the truth, Max,¡± Vonda said hysterically. ¡°Don¡¯t you know that I held myself back from drinking all day? Why? Because I didn¡¯t want to pee. It hurts so much.¡±


    Max blinked, staring at Vonda, and finding a look of desperation on her face.


    ¡°Are you not lying?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness,¡± Vonda said in disbelief. ¡°If I¡¯m lying, I¡¯d be willing to be cheated on by Andrew for the second time.¡±


    Max fell silent. In his mind, he thought there¡¯s no way Vonda would dare to swear so drastically.


    ¡°So¡­ is it true?¡± he asked cautiously.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Vonda snapped in frustration. ¡°And I bet you didn¡¯t feel any pain at all, did you?¡±


    Max widened his eyes.


    ¡°Careless with your words, aren¡¯t you? You don¡¯t know when I was in the car, the zipper identally got caught on me. You teased me without any consideration,¡± Max retorted. ¡°That caused a scrape, Von.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Vonda covered her mouth, remaining silent as she looked at Max¡¯s face that turned red for a few seconds. ¡°Now¡­ is it still hurting?¡±


    ¡°Huh! It¡¯s healed.¡± Max¡¯s eyes nced at Vonda and winked once. ¡°How about yours? Does it still hurt?¡±


    Vonda shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s not hurting anymore,¡± she replied, taking a quick breath. And as if needing to rify things, she continued, ¡°It took about two days for it to heal.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Max nodded.


    ¡°By the way,¡± Vonda said, stealing a nce at the area where Max¡¯s thighs met. ¡°I apologize for going too far that night.¡±


    Max cleared his throat.


    ¡°That was my first time, by the way,¡± Vonda confessed nervously. ¡°So¡­ you know, I¡¯m still inexperienced.¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°It¡¯s okay. Eventually, you¡¯ll get used to it.¡±


    Vonda nodded in agreement.


    ¡°You should practice more often.¡±


    What?!


    ¡°I-I mean, what I meant is that your emotions need to be trained,¡± Max quickly corrected his sentence. ¡°So, you can be gentler.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Vonda took a deep breath. ¡°Well, but¡­ you also need to practice more.¡±


    ¡°Practice w-what?¡± Max suddenly became serious. ¡°Did I have any significant shorings that night?¡±


    Vonda blinked. Max shifted his sitting position, leaning towards Vonda. He looked genuinely serious, waiting for her answer.


    ¡°Uh¡­ I don¡¯t think there were any significant shorings.¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°On a scale of 1 to 10, where do you think I stand?¡±


    Vonda was taken aback. ¡°I just had sex with you, Max. I can¡¯t judge you if I don¡¯t haveparable criteria for evaluation.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­ that¡¯s true. How about based on your feelings? Approximately, what would you rate me?¡±


    Vonda seemed to think for a moment. Her eyes gazed at the ceiling. Max waited anxiously, as if that assessment was crucial for his survival.


    ¡°I think¡­¡± Vonda finally said, ¡°around 9. 5.¡±


    What?!


    ¡°9. 5?¡± Max eximed. ¡°Why leave out 0. 5? Where did I fall short, Von?¡±


    Vonda leaned in, mirroring Max¡¯s posture. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t been in pain, you would have gotten a perfect 10, Max. Isn¡¯t a sexual rtionship supposed to be enjoyable? There shouldn¡¯t be any lingering pain.¡±


    ¡°Well, if there¡¯s just a little bit of pain, it can be tolerated,¡± Max defended. ¡°Besides, it¡¯s not just you who experienced the scrape. I felt it too.¡±


    ¡°So, ording to you, I also get a 9. 5?¡±


    Max fell silent for a moment, then nodded. ¡°If my manhood hadn¡¯t gotten scraped, I¡¯d give you a 10.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ so, from now on, I have to make sure your manhood doesn¡¯t get caught in a zipper, right?¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°That¡¯s only one concern. The problem now is me. Why did you get hurt inside? Was it because of the condom? Or was I too rough?¡±


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s nothing wrong with the condom, it seems.¡±


    ¡°Then the brand I bought is good. I just need to find the right size.¡±


    ¡°Right. Now I¡¯m worried because of what you said about size.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m worried it might get scraped because¡­ well, because of your pecker.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I also felt like it was too full, Max. I just realized that I was attacked three times in one go.¡±


    ¡°Ah. That¡¯s true. We should¡¯ve taken a break yesterday. Your vajayjay probably needed time to adjust.¡±


    ¡°Yes! That¡¯s what I thought too. So, next time, when we¡¯re more experienced, it¡¯ll be morefortable.¡±


    ¡°Hopefully, there won¡¯t be any more scrapes.¡±


    ¡°But still, you shouldn¡¯t be too aggressive.¡±


    ¡°I can also be gentle.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s vary it. Sometimes gentle, sometimes more aggressive.¡±


    ¡°Sure. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Oh, and also, when you go in next time, don¡¯t thrust immediately. Let your pecker stay inside for a while.¡±


    ¡°I paused, didn¡¯t I? So, your vajayjay could adjust?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Next time, I¡¯ll wait until you¡¯re really ready.¡±


    ¡°Just be careful. If I¡¯m not ready, don¡¯t thrust too soon.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Next time, I¡¯ll-¡±


    Wait!


    Max¡¯s words came to a halt midway. They were reced by a question that echoed in his mind.


    What kind of conversation is this, God?


    Max swallowed the remaining words that had queued up at the tip of his tongue, feeling awkward. Especially when his gaze met Vonda¡¯s. The girl remained silent, as if waiting for Max to continue his sentence. However, in the next moment, her face slowly turned red. Both Max and Vonda seemed to suddenly realize it, realizing how extraordinary their conversation had been.


    OH-MY-GOD!


    Max and Vonda both averted their gazes, coughing alternately. Feeling equally embarrassed.


    Oh my, Vonda. What did you mean by saying that earlier? Were you thinking of¡­ well, getting intimate with him again or something?


    Simr thoughts urred to Max.


    Oh, Max. Did you really need to invite her to discuss your performance? What¡¯s the point of it? So that she¡¯ll give you a perfect 10 next time?


    ¡°Ahem!¡±


    ¡°Ahem!¡±


    For a few moments, only the sound of coughing was heard repeatedly. Both were equally confused and embarrassed. In their hearts, they both cursed.


    Where is my brain?


    The atmosphere felt so awkward. It made them both wonder how to get out of it. Until something urred to Vonda. She stammered out, ¡°Oh¡­ I actually have my spare car key with Andrew.¡±


    Max blinked. ¡°Oh¡­ he wants to use your car, right?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes. But I won¡¯t give it to him.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ you shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry¡­ Besides, my car is still at the hotel. It got left behind during the reception¡­ Mr. Lucas Hernandez.¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Max nodded stiffly, clearly remembering why the girl¡¯s car was left at the hotel.


    Vonda took a deep breath, feeling so chaotic. Embarrassed, annoyed, and¡­ sleepy, yes, she felt sleepy too. She covered her mouth as she yawned, disturbing Max who waspelled to ask, ¡°Lately¡­ you yawn a lot. Are you not getting enough sleep?¡±


    Vonda sighed deeply. ¡°I can¡¯t sleep. I keep thinking about the responsibility you mentioned.¡±


    Max fell silent, which prompted Vonda to ask.


    ¡°Do you really need me to take responsibility? Sometimes, when I think about it, it seems so absurd.¡±


    This time, Max sighed deeply, looking exhausted as he gazed at Vonda. ¡°I won¡¯t demand responsibility from you, in case that night you didn¡¯t suddenly enter my car.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened and Max responded in kind. It was enough to prevent Vonda from voicing her objections.


    ¡°Because honestly, that night, my mom saw you getting into my car.¡±


    Vonda was startled. ¡°Oh, God!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t lie to my mom either. I know very well what my mom is like,¡± Max said helplessly. ¡°It would only take a few days for my mom to hire to Sherlock Holmes find you. So, I¡¯d rather y it safe.¡±


    ¡°That bad?¡±


    ¡°Maybe even worse, Von. So¡­ it¡¯s better for me to exin everything to you.¡±


    Vonda held her breath as Max started to exin the real situation. About Max and Olivia being arranged to marry, but both had no feelings for each other. Their childhood friendship, filled with jokes, fights, and wrestling, did not leave any room for romantic feelings to develop. They had tried being a couple, holding hands, and saying affectionate words.


    ¡°But all that happened was we felt nauseous together!¡± Max shuddered. ¡°But our parents won¡¯t cancel the arranged marriage unless¡­¡±


    ¡°You both don¡¯t have partners?¡± Vonda interrupted.


    Max quickly snapped his middle finger and thumb together, making a sound. ¡°Exactly.¡±


    Vonda realized why Olivia had pressed her to pretend to be Max¡¯s girlfriend.


    ¡°Um, but¡­ I can¡¯t really be your actual girlfriend, Max.¡±


    ¡°No no no!¡± Max quickly shook his head. ¡°Because you know the real problem, it¡¯s easier for me to exin it to you. I¡¯m not really asking for you to take responsibility.¡±


    Vonda felt relieved.


    ¡°I just want to ask for your help. At least pretend to be my girlfriend until they cancel our arranged marriage. And until Olivia really goes back to Tokyo.¡±


    ¡°Um.¡± Vonda¡¯s hands sped in front of her chest. ¡°That¡¯s beneficial for you. But what about me?¡±


    Max swallowed his saliva. ¡°You also benefit, Von. At least you can be sure that only I have seen you naked.¡±


    Vonda forgot something.


    ¡°Even if it was just through a photo.¡±


    Damn!


    Vonda growled. ¡°Fine! I¡¯ll help. Are you satisfied?¡±


    ¡°Do you see a satisfied expression on my face?¡± Max asked. ¡°I¡¯m actually so tired of dealing with this arranged marriage drama. My mom should be busy arranging Kitty¡¯s marriage, not me.¡±


    Vonda blinked. ¡°Kitty is your younger sister?¡±


    ¡°No. It¡¯s my mom¡¯s Persian peaknose cat. Directly imported from Persia. Her fur is really long and beautiful. That¡¯s why my mom has been so busy looking for a male to-¡± Max took a breath. ¡°Why am I talking about a cat?¡±


    Vonda smiled and yawned again.


    ¡°Do you want some coffee?¡± Max stood up. ¡°I haven¡¯t brought you anything to drink yet.¡±


    ¡°Sure. Something sweet, please. Thank you.¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°While you wait, just rest. If you¡¯re lucky, I might have some frozen pizza left.¡±


    After saying that, Max left Vonda, who he noticed reaching for a sofa cushion. He headed straight to the kitchen, heating water and preparing two cups.


    Efficiently, Max put two spoons of coffee powder into one cup, not forgetting to add sugar. The other cup, for himself, he put a tea bag without sugar.


    A momentter, the kettle whistled. Max turned off the stove, grabbed the kettle, and his ears faintly caught the soft footsteps behind him. Max shook his head, suspecting that Vonda was the kind of woman who could not wait.


    ¡°ck coffee, right, Von? Or do you want something else?¡± Max asked, reaching for the handle of the kettle, and lifting it off the stove.


    Max moved a little, approaching the two cups he had prepared, and spoke again.


    ¡°The pizza is in the fridge, Von. You can- Oh my God, Mom!¡±


    Max was taken aback. He jerked and stopped in his tracks as he realized that the footsteps he heard were not Vonda¡¯s. Instead, they belonged to a middle-aged woman whom he called Mom.


    In front of Max, Riley Madison-the mom who had been terrorizing Max recently-smiled, sping her hands together.


    ¡°The one sleeping in front is¡­ Vonda?¡±


    Gasp!


    Max blinked repeatedly with the kettle still in his hand.


    ¡°You really need to be taught, Max. You¡¯re asking your future wife to sleep on the sofa. No affection, huh?¡±


    Oxygen, please! Oxygen!


    Suddenly, Max felt like he could not breathe.


    Oh God. I¡¯m dead.


    *

 Beyond Anticipation

    ¡°Mom, why did youe without even telling me?¡±


    ¡°Why did youe here?¡±


    ¡°You should have said something beforeing, right?¡±


    Max said countless things in surprise at the sudden arrival of his mother. What¡¯s more, when Riley mentioned Vonda¡¯s name, Max¡¯s body tensed up instantly.


    How on earth could Mamae just when Vonda is here? This is a disaster! Truly a disastrous coincidence!


    On the other hand, ignoring the barrage of questions from her child, Riley did something else. She reached for her child¡¯s hand and held it tightly.


    Max tried to free himself, but Riley was not someone he couldpete with, despite being a grown man, tall, and big. But his opponent now was his own biological mother.


    ¡°Come here, Max. Come,¡± Riley hissed.


    Max eventually gave in, cing the kettle anywhere without doing anything when Riley dragged him out of the kitchen. Max¡¯s steps felt like they were being dragged as Riley led him to the living room. Once there, Riley pointed at Max with sharp eyes.


    ¡°See?¡± Riley asked with half-whispered emphasis. ¡°You let my future daughter-inw sleep on the sofa?¡±


    What?!


    Max quickly covered his mouth.


    I don¡¯t have an ulcer. Seriously. But why is my stomach feeling so queasy?


    Riley grumbled, pinching Max¡¯s stomach until he winced. Not only that, she red at him as if to assure Max that she was not joking when scolding her son.


    ¡°What if her waist gets twisted?¡±


    Max gaped. ¡°Since when was there a twisted waist, Mom?¡±


    Riley¡¯s hand moved again to pinch, but Max quickly dodged, leaving his mother to re fiercely.


    ¡°Besides, it¡¯s not my fault that she fell asleep here, Mom. I left her in a conscious state. She even asked for coffee and pizza.¡±


    Riley exhaled. ¡°Okay, okay.¡± She nodded. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, carry Vonda. Move her to your room. So, she can sleepfortably.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Max looked at his mother in horror. ¡°Carry her, Mom?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I mean carry her. Take her to your room so she can sleep soundly.¡±


    Max swallowed his saliva. Staring at Riley¡¯s eyes, he realized that his mother was not joking. He could guess that he had no other choice. Max could only follow Riley¡¯s orders.


    Intended for single people, Max¡¯s apartment had only one bedroom. The reality meant that Max had to carry Vonda into his room.


    Riley furrowed her brows, waiting and repeating hermand with her piercing gaze.


    Max gave up. Slowly, he approached Vonda, positioning himself correctly before picking her up in his arms.


    Vonda made a faint groaning sound. Unconsciously, Max made soothing sounds to calm her.


    ¡°Sshh. Sshh.¡±


    Vonda moved slightly in Max¡¯s embrace as he tried to stand. Her face looked worried. Her forehead wrinkled with a look of difort.


    ¡°Ma¡­ x.¡±


    Max blinked. His foot that was about to walk suddenly stopped. His gaze then met his mother¡¯s eyes when he heard Vonda¡¯s murmuring that made his soul freeze.


    ¡°St ¡­ op.¡±


    Max looked at Riley with a furrowed brow and then looked down. He originally thought Vonda had woken up, but apparently not. Vonda¡¯s eyes were still tightly shut. That meant she was still asleep, right? But what she said just now?


    ¡°Wait¡­ Don¡¯t hold me so tightly.¡±


    Huh?


    ¡°Wait¡­ You made me can¡¯t pee¡­¡±


    Max instantly turned pale. His brain quicklymanded him to leave immediately. However, one final sentence from Vonda¡¯s mumbling sessfully made Riley re at him again.


    ¡°Being deflowered is painful, Max.¡±


    Then, Vonda winced. Sobbing softly without tears for a moment until she calmed down again. Sleeping peacefully, as if nothing had happened.


    Gasp!


    Max felt his body go numb. His breath seemed to be pulled from his lungs, his heart not beating, and his soul floating. Riley¡¯s sharp gaze seemed to want to slice Max¡¯s body alive.


    I¡¯m really going to die this time.


    *


    Vonda could not pinpoint exactly when she lost consciousness. After Max left, she felt an overwhelming fatigue that she could not bear. Instead of waiting for her ck coffee, she chose to lie down on the sofa, leaning on her arm and hugging one of the pillows.


    At that moment, Vonda thought she would rest her eyes for a while until Max returned. But unexpectedly, insomnia that had haunted her for nights due to the fear of her situation with Max seeking redemption at that very moment.


    Feeling calm after their conversation made Vonda realize that her fears had beenpletely groundless. At that moment, her mind cursed herself.


    ¡°If I knew it was just because he wanted to avoid the arranged marriage, he should have been honest from the beginning. Not knowing that because he kept talking about responsibilities and everything, I couldn¡¯t sleep for nights.¡±


    That¡¯s right. After being freed from that fear, Vonda¡¯s body finally demanded the rest she had not been getting for the past few days. Willingly or not, Vonda surrendered to the sleepiness and tiredness that had been tormenting her.


    A few momentster, Vonda¡¯s consciousness slowly returned. She blinked her eyes several times before fully opening them.


    Ugh!


    As Vonda opened her eyes, she felt an unfamiliarity that made her body feel cold. Especially when she moved her eyes. She nced around and suddenly felt a shiver.


    This¡­ this is Max¡¯s room?


    Of course, Vonda knew that the room she was in was Max¡¯s. After all, she had spent the night there before. And waking up there now was definitely not a good sign for her. Panic-stricken, Vonda quickly got up with fearful thoughts.


    What did he do to me while I was sleeping? He must have¡­


    Her thoughts stopped midway. Just as Vonda got up and found that her clothes were still intact, and she was covered with a nket.


    Vonda sighed deeply. She felt so relieved. Unconsciously, she wiped her face and head.


    ¡°Oh my God. I¡¯m being so paranoid,¡± Vonda sighed weakly.


    A minuteter, feeling fully awake, Vonda got up. Initially, she wanted to leave the room immediately, but a fallen hairpin made her change her mind. Instead of leaving, Vonda decided to look in the mirror first.


    Vonda chose topletely take off the office hairpin that was already disheveled and picked up ab to tidy up her shoulder-length wavy hair. After deeming it sufficiently neat, Vonda left the room and was surprised to see the time on the wall clock.


    ¡°Wow! It¡¯s almost seven in the evening?¡±


    Vonda had no idea that she had slept that long. This realization pushed her into haste. First, she needed to find Max. Only then did she wonder whether she should go home immediately or finish the ck coffee that was undoubtedly already cold.


    ¡°Max?¡±


    Vonda searched the living room, but he wasn¡¯t there. After thinking for a moment, she walked to another room. The TV room.


    ¡°He¡¯s not here either.¡±


    Suddenly, something made Vonda¡¯s stomach growl instantly. Her natural response appeared, and she sniffed the delightful aroma even more deeply.


    Vonda swallowed her saliva. Guessing Max¡¯s whereabouts through the scent, she hurriedly went to the source of the aroma.


    ¡°Max!¡± Vonda called out as she quickened her steps. ¡°Max!¡± She called his name again when she reached the kitchen¡¯s threshold. ¡°Max! Are you-¡±


    Not only did her words stop abruptly, but her steps also halted. Vonda stood still, stunned, just three steps into the kitchen. Confused and not knowing what to do when she saw a middle-aged woman who appeared to be smiling at her as she turned off the stove.


    The woman was wearing an apron, which indicated that she was the one who had been cooking, not Max. She looked at Vonda and approached her slowly. Her slow steps directed toward Vonda.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Who is thisdy?


    Vonda¡¯s eyes moved left and right, trying to find Max, but he was nowhere to be seen.


    Where¡¯s Max? Who is thisdy?


    For some reasons she could not understand, she suddenly felt trembling. Although at first nce, the woman approaching her seemed friendly and amiable, after a few seconds, Vonda realized why her body reacted with anticipation.


    It was because the woman casually asked her,


    ¡°Are you awake, my Future Daughter-in-Law?¡±


    Vonda gaped.


    Am I still dreaming now?


    *

 Pressured

    Vonda needed more time to assess the situation. A minute after being dumbfounded, she decided to wash her face briefly, fearing there might be some dirt in her eyes causing her to see things incorrectly.


    After that, Vonda returned to the kitchen to make sure if her vision had changed or not. However, what happened was that she was faced with this question.


    ¡°What do you like to eat, Von? Honestly, I didn¡¯t know you woulde to Max¡¯s apartment. So, I didn¡¯t have time to go shopping. I hope you like sds and nuggets. Max said you eat anything.¡±


    Vonda felt bewildered and half insane as she responded, ¡°Well, Ma¡¯am. I am a true omnivore.¡±


    Riley looked at her with an amused expression. ¡°Don¡¯t call me ¡®Ma¡¯am¡¯. It sounds too formal.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Vonda blinked her eyes.


    ¡°Max calls me Mom, so you should too.¡±


    That statement sessfully left Vonda dumbfounded once again. Her mouth half-opened and she felt like her senses hadn¡¯t fully gathered yet. Maybe washing her face earlier was not enough?


    Vonda tried once again to clear her mind. As her second step, she went to the refrigerator and poured a ss of cold water. She drank it quickly to quench her thirst, and then she thought that dehydration might be causing her hallucinations. However, a minuteter, she heard that voice again.


    ¡°Vonda, can you please take out the empty water bottles? Max always forgets to do that.¡±


    Strangely enough, Vonda reflexively replied, ¡°Sure, Mom.¡±


    Vonda froze at her own words while Riley smiled widely from across the kitchen.


    ¡°I will prepare our dinner now.¡±


    Vonda nodded stiffly. After Riley left, she took out two empty mineral water bottles from the fridge. She crushed them before throwing them in the trash, both to prevent them from being misused and to vent her emotions.


    Where¡¯s Max? Why am I waking up not receiving a cold coffee and pizza, but instead being served by a future mother-inw? Geez, that guy is seriously asking for trouble, isn¡¯t he?


    Vonda¡¯s internal rant stopped when Riley re-entered the kitchen and picked up the next set of dishes. At that moment, she immediately felt ufortable and hurriedly grabbed another te, taking it to the dining table.


    ¡°Wow, Max really knows how to find a future wife. Beautiful and willing to help me with work,¡± Riley remarked with a grin.


    Vondaughed nervously after hearing thement as they finished setting up all the dishes on the table.


    ¡°By the way,¡± Vonda whispered, ncing around. ¡°Where¡¯s Max, Mom?¡±


    Riley shed a teasing gaze and approached Vonda, grabbing both her hands, making Vonda feel on guard.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t meet just a moment ago¡­ and you already searched for him,¡± Riley said with a yful smile. ¡°Max is at the nearby supermarket. We ran out of water. He¡¯s also going to the pharmacy.¡±


    ¡°The pharmacy?¡± Vonda asked. ¡°Who needs medicine, Mom?¡±


    Riley¡¯s eyes looked innocent as she answered Vonda¡¯s question. ¡°Well, of course, Max needs medicine.¡±


    *


    ~


    ¡°Mom, I beg you. Please listen to my exnation. I can tell you everything.¡±


    ¡°Oh. You want to exin every detail of how you deflowered Vonda?¡±


    ¡°Mom, please. That¡¯s not what happened.¡±


    ¡°Then what actually happened, huh?¡±


    ¡°Actually¡­ actually¡­ actually¡­¡±


    ¡°What? Can¡¯t answer, can you? Can¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, Max! I know you¡¯re already an adult and if you¡¯re so eager for Vonda, just marry her. Why make itplicated?¡±


    ¡°Mom. It¡¯s not like that, but-¡±


    ¡°Look! You¡¯re already an adult and established. You can marry whoever you want, it¡¯s your right. I already said it. I¡¯ll agree with your choice.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom. Yes, but-¡±


    ¡°What, huh? Do you want to make Vonda pregnant first before marrying her?¡±


    ¡°No, she won¡¯t get pregnant, Mom. We use condoms. So-Ouch!¡±


    ¡°How dare you say that to me?¡±


    ¡°It slipped, Mom.¡±


    ¡°It slipped? Oh my God. Are you really the child I gave birth to? Maybe you got swapped at the hospital.¡±


    ¡°Mom, please.¡±


    ¡°Please, please, please. Just answer my question this time. How many times have you deflowered Vonda?¡±


    ¡°Just once, Mom. As if Vonda¡¯s virginity isyered like ayer cake. Really, you-Ouch!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really driving me crazy.¡±


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m sorry. I have no intention of driving you crazy. You don¡¯t need to worry. This is between me and Vonda. We¡¯re both adults. We¡¯ll handle all of this.¡±


    ¡°Yes, you both have to handle it, which means you have to ask Vonda as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Ask what, Mom?¡±


    ¡°When is she ready to get married?¡±


    ¡°What?! What do you mean, Mom?¡±


    ¡°I mean when do you n to get married? What other considerations do you have? You don¡¯t have any responsibilities. Nothing to worry about.¡±


    ¡°V-Vonda, Mom. Vonda.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. I can see that Vonda is an independent woman. If she has any responsibilities or other considerations, we need to discuss it soon.¡±


    ~


    Max closed his eyes, and then a voice was heard.


    ¡°The total is nine drs, Sir,¡± said the cashier, snapping Max out of the shback.


    Max quickly took out his wallet and handed a bill to the cashier, ten dors.


    ¡°You can keep the dor as a tip,¡± said Max.


    The cashier smiled. ¡°Thank you, Sir.¡±


    ¡°But, in return, please pray for my long life. It seems like my life is in danger right now.¡±


    The cashier looked puzzled. ¡°Hah?¡±


    Max¡¯s steps were sluggish. He felt weak because he had not had a chance to eat. He had not even had time to take a shower to freshen up.


    Why did Mom have toe suddenly like this? And why did Vonda have to have a nightmare at the wrong time? It¡¯s like the whole universe knows everything that happened. Oh God. Just because of one night¡¯s incident, everything is falling apart one after another like this, Max grumbled to himself all the way home.


    Fifteen minutester, Max arrived at the apartment unit. He entered and went straight in. Right at the dining table, he found two women chatting in front of their covered tes. It was clear that they had not started the dinner yet.


    ¡°Max?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice immediately sounded when Max arrived there. cing his groceries on an empty chair, he chose to sit in the chair next to Vonda.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    A tough choice. But sitting next to Vonda was safer than sitting next to Mom right now.


    ¡°Ehm,¡± Max cleared his throat briefly.


    From her seat, Vonda furrowed her eyebrows when she noticed something odd about Max at that moment. On reflex, she raised her hand and touched Max¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Why is your ear so red like this?¡± Vonda asked. ¡°Oh my God. It looks scratched-¡±


    ¡°Ouch!¡± Max winced, pulling his head away from Vonda¡¯s hand that touched his earlobe. ¡°Don¡¯t touch it, Von. It hurts.¡±


    Vonda withdrew her hand, her forehead wrinkling. ¡°Why is your ear like that?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Max replied curtly.


    Max¡¯s gaze shifted to Riley, who kept blinking repeatedly. Rolling her eyes nonchntly. Then she reached for a ss of water and drank casually.


    ¡°It¡¯s like someone suddenly became the angel of death and carried out a judgment.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    Riley chuckled once. ¡°Enough, Von. Don¡¯t worry about it. It¡¯s just a little scratch. Let¡¯s eat instead.¡±


    Vonda looked at Riley and Max alternately, looking puzzled. Somehow, she felt as if Riley was the cause of Max¡¯s ear being scratched.


    But,e on¡­ Max being pinched? He¡¯s already this big. It¡¯s not possible.


    Riley served rice on her te and handed the spoon to Vonda, then to Max. Soon, the three of them began to enjoy an unexpected dinner together.


    For the first few minutes, the atmosphere seemed silent. The only sounds were the clinking of cutlery against tes. Until Riley called out to Vonda.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Vonda looked up. ¡°Yes, Mom?¡±


    Horror-stricken, Max reflexively turned to the side, looking at Vonda with a horrified expression.


    Since when did she call my mom with Mom too? Is she really the one who got swapped at the hospital, like Mom said earlier?


    Riley wiped her lips slightly before continuing. ¡°I know this isn¡¯t the right time. Besides, we¡¯re supposed to meet again tomorrow, right?¡±


    Vonda turned her head, looking at Max and giving him a quizzical look.


    What¡¯s happening tomorrow?


    However, Max just sighed in response, which clearly didn¡¯t satisfy Vonda¡¯s curiosity.


    ¡°I actually didn¡¯t want to rush talking about this.¡±


    ¡°About what, Mom?¡±


    Max tensed up. His eyes widened in a silent plea. ¡°Mom, I beg you. At least not at the dining table.¡±


    ¡°Max, this is important. I need to talk to Vonda.¡±


    Vonda looked back and forth between Riley and Max. She was puzzled as she reached for her ss of water and took a sip, right when Riley asked her next question.


    ¡°When will you be ready to get married?¡±


    Spurt!


    Water sprayed everywhere. Vonda was clearly shocked by the question, causing her to choke and cough. Max quickly grabbed some tissues and wiped Vonda¡¯s messy mouth.


    ¡°Oh my God, Mom. See what you did? You should have picked the right moment to talk.¡±


    Vonda held Max¡¯s hand in front of her face, looking at him with a mixture of panic, fear, confusion, and¡­ terror.


    ¡°W-what¡¯s going on, Max?¡±


    Max kept his mouth shut tightly.


    Oh God. How on earth am I going to exin all this to Vonda?


    Vonda waited, but Max remained silent. Eventually, Riley spoke up.


    ¡°Max wants to propose to you, Von.¡±


    Vonda felt her body go weak. Her hand, which was holding Max¡¯s, fell into herp. She could not believe what Riley just said.


    Vonda turned to Max, demanding an exnation from him. She looked nkly at him and asked.


    ¡°You want to propose to me, Max?¡±


    Max froze, ncing at Riley and then back at Vonda.


    Mom will definitely scold me again if I say no. Besides, she¡¯ll question the truth of our rtionship. But I¡¯m sure Vonda will hit me if I say yes. She¡¯ll also question the truth of my story about avoiding the arranged marriage with Olivia. So¡­


    Max swallowed hard. Realizing he was under pressure from both sides.


    Choose the lesser risk, Max! Choose the lesser risk. Take the lesser risk.


    Max took that risk, reaching for Vonda¡¯s hand. His gaze turned sharp and direct on her, and with firm conviction, he answered with a single word.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    *

 Slowly

    ¡°The dinner was delicious, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it? My cooking is always good. That¡¯s why you shoulde over more often, so you can taste my other dishes.¡±


    Vonda was surprised. She had to admit that the dinner cooked by Riley was indeed delicious, even though it was simple. Ordinary food tasted extraordinary to her, as she usually opted for takeouts rather than cooking herself. However, her praise was not to hear Riley¡¯s invitation. Especially when she realized how Max¡¯s mother¡¯s hand reached out to her, giving aforting pat on her back as the three of them sat rxed in the living room after enjoying dinner.


    ¡°When do you want toe to our house?¡± Riley asked again. ¡°Tomorrow?¡±


    Max, who had anticipated this, quickly interrupted, ¡°Mom. Now that you¡¯ve met Vonda, why don¡¯t we arrange a time for her to visit our house another day?¡±


    Riley wanted to express her objection, but Max¡¯s next words made her swallow back everything.


    ¡°Mom, you saw it yourself, right? Vonda fell asleep earlier. She¡¯s tired, Mom. She¡¯s been working overtime these days.¡±


    Riley looked at Vonda. ¡°Is that true?¡±


    Vonda blinked. ¡°Well¡­ yeah, I haven¡¯t been getting enough sleep for the past few days.¡±


    But it was not because of work, it was because of Max¡¯s emotional pressure.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Riley sighed; a bit disappointed. ¡°Alright then. Rest on the weekend, okay? Get enough sleep so you won¡¯t get sick.¡±


    Vonda nodded, relieved that she had a valid reason to avoid Riley¡¯s invitation.


    Just met, got proposed to, and now asked to visit her house? Forget it, Von. It¡¯s too much too soon.


    ¡°Besides,¡± Riley continued, ¡°who would be heartless enough to make you work overtime for days? Your boss sounds like an inhumane person.¡±


    Cough!


    Max coughed suddenly, and Vonda could not help but chuckle reflexively.


    ¡°Indeed, Mom. My boss is inhumane.¡±


    ¡°Tsk tsk tsk! Be patient, Von. Just consider your boss as a test from God.¡±


    For once, Vonda smiled and nodded in agreement. For some reason, a small sense of happiness began to bloom in her mind.


    Shortly after, feeling satisfied after dinner, Vonda decided to bid farewell to Riley. It was already approaching 9 PM, and she needed to get back to her apartment.


    ¡°Mom, it¡¯s gettingte. I should go home now.¡±


    Riley shifted her position slightly to get a better look at Vonda¡¯s face. ¡°How will you go? Take a taxi or something?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll probably take a taxiter, Mom.¡±


    Riley¡¯s yful gazended on Vonda. ¡°Max will take you home.¡± She turned to Max. ¡°Right, dear?¡±


    Max gulped nervously. Stiffly, he nodded once and stood up. ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll take you home.¡±


    At first, Vonda intended to decline the offer. However, a mischievous idea crossed her mind.


    This might be a chance to get back at him.


    Max¡¯s hair stood on end. It was exactly when he saw a terrifying expression on Vonda¡¯s face.


    No way, I¡¯m not doing this. She¡¯ll probably mutte me in the middle of the road.


    *


    Max¡¯s eyes darted back and forth, trying to gauge the cruelty Vonda might inflict upon him from her expression. However, it was difficult to read her, especially since she chose to slightly turn her head to the side, looking out at the street. Thanks to the faint reflection in the car window, he could see Vonda remaining expressionless.


    Feeling uncertain, Max decided to follow the situation, remaining silent for a few moments. Eventually, his car stopped by Vonda¡¯s apartment building.


    ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± Max whispered softly.


    Click!


    Vonda unbuckled her seatbelt.


    Screech!


    Max shuddered as Vonda turned slightly, looking at him with horror in her eyes. Especially when she said, ¡°How about we stop by my unit for a bit?¡±


    Gulp!


    Max blinked. ¡°Y-you want to talk to me?¡±


    Vonda nodded.


    ¡°Uh.¡± Max cleared his throat, trying to calm himself. ¡°H-how about we just talk here?¡±


    ¡°Here?¡± Vonda squinted. ¡°What if people see the car shaking. What will they think?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Sh-shaking? What do you mean?¡±


    Wait, what¡¯s the connection between going to her unit and a shaking car? It can¡¯t be, right? No, impossible.


    Vonda tilted her head slightly. ¡°Come with me, Max.¡±


    As if confident that Max wouldply, Vonda stepped out of the car. As expected, Max followed suit, half-running to catch up with her.


    Max felt awkward as he entered Vonda¡¯s apartment unit. He nced around before finally stepping inside.


    In the living room, Vonda paused, waiting for Max to catch up. Then she asked as she approached him, ¡°What weapon do you want me to use to kill you, Max? A knife or insecticide? I have both.¡±


    Max froze.


    I knew it. The shaking car was about this. She¡¯s really nning to murder me.


    ¡°Knife or insecticide?¡± Vonda repeated tly. ¡°I have both.¡±


    Max took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. ¡°I-I don¡¯t want to be killed. I¡¯m really sorry. This was not my intention at all.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes remained sharp as she raised her index finger and pressed it against Max¡¯s chest with each question. ¡°So, calling me your fiancee in front of your mother wasn¡¯t part of your n? Your mom called me her future daughter-inw, was that not nned?¡±


    Oh, dear.


    Max¡¯s body was slowly pushed backward with each press of Vonda¡¯s finger on his chest. Her questions were scathing.


    ¡°You have no idea how shocked I was, do you? And then you said you were going to propose to me? Tell me something, Max. Even the craziest girl wouldn¡¯t be proposed to at the dinner table under those situation!¡±


    Max took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. ¡°Well, there are plenty of girls who get proposed to at the dinner table.¡±


    Vonda growled. ¡°Really? The only proposal I know happens over a fancy steak dinner, not while eating sds and nuggets!¡±


    Max pursed his lips as Vonda¡¯s hand swung, hitting him with frustration.


    ¡°You said we were just ying around, but why did you go so far as to propose?¡±


    Max caught Vonda¡¯s hands, quickly restraining her and with a swift move, he changed their positions, pinning her against the wall.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°You better calm down, Von,¡± Max said. ¡°Listen to my exnation first. If you keep acting like this, everything will get even messier.¡±


    Realizing the truth in Max¡¯s words, Vonda tightly closed her mouth. She felt embarrassed, but she had to admit that her actions could worsen the situation.


    Feeling Vonda had calmed down a bit, Max slowly released his grip on her wrists, and he lowered his face to look at her.


    ¡°I really had no idea that Mom would visit my ce today. If I had known, I wouldn¡¯t have invited you over.¡±


    Vonda remained silent.


    ¡°Besides¡­¡± Max took a deep breath. ¡°You know, you also contributed toplicating things.¡±


    Both of Vonda¡¯s hands went up, sping together as she looked at him. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t believe it, but you were sleep-talking.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face turned as if she had seen a ghost. She was shocked to hear Max recounting every word she had spoken in her sleep.


    Max¡¯s narration brought back the disturbing emotions he had felt earlier. Chaos.


    ¡°You can¡¯t imagine how terrified Mom was when she heard what you were saying,¡± Max continued. ¡°Look at this!¡± He pointed at his ear. ¡°You wonder why my ear looks like this?¡±


    ¡°No way.¡±


    Max grimaced. ¡°I got pinched by Mom. I¡¯m lucky she didn¡¯t bury me alive tonight. Argh! Why did I end up with two equally crazy women?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking about your own mother, Max.¡±


    ¡°All because of you, you know?¡± Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Oh, my goodness. I should have learned from experience. It seems like you have a natural talent for disrupting my life.¡±


    Vonda frowned. ¡°Well, the other day we both liked each other. You can¡¯t say that I disrupted your life entirely.¡±


    ¡°You-¡±


    ¡°Moreover,¡± Vonda interjected, ¡°because of what happened that night, you had a reason to cancel your engagement with Olivia, right?¡±


    Max opened his mouth, but no words came out. ¡°You¡¯re good at twisting facts, huh?¡±


    ¡°Not like that. Besides, you were also twisting the situation,¡± Vonda retorted. ¡°I was going to scold you about the impromptu proposal, but you started talking about my sleep-talking.¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Because if it weren¡¯t for your sleep-talking, Mom wouldn¡¯t have pressed me to marry you as soon as possible.¡±


    Vonda was taken aback. ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why Mom told me to propose to you quickly. So, who do you think is at fault here?¡±


    Vonda froze.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for your strange sleep-talking, Mom wouldn¡¯t have panicked, thinking we might go overboard anytime.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s head suddenly began to ache. ¡°Oh my god. So, it¡¯s because of me?¡± She squeezed her hair. ¡°Why do I always go crazy at the wrong times?¡±


    Max rubbed his neck, feeling overwhelmed by the situation.


    ¡°So, what now?¡± asked Vonda. ¡°Are we really going to get married?¡±


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Max replied.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so,¡± Vonda hesitated. ¡°We don¡¯t have any feelings for each other. How could we get married?¡±


    Max took a deep breath and nodded once. ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°I think for now¡­¡± Max¡¯s brain raced, ¡°¡­ we should just continue like this. After a while, we cane up with a reason to end our pretend rtionship.¡±


    Vonda was uncertain. ¡°How?¡±


    Max paused, deep in thought. ¡°I can pretend to cheat. No intelligent woman would forgive infidelity, right?¡±


    Max¡¯s words left Vonda momentarily speechless. It was as if she had lost consciousness, no longer standing on solid ground.


    Max must have said that identally, right? He didn¡¯t mean anything else, did he?


    Max quickly realized his mistake after seeing the change in Vonda¡¯s expression. It was as if a part of her had gone back in time, reliving the shadows of betrayal she had witnessed firsthand. Max took hold of Vonda¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Really, I didn¡¯t mean to bring that up.¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I know you didn¡¯t mean it.¡±


    Dammit!


    In Max¡¯s opinion, facing Vonda¡¯s anger was much easier than encountering this sudden change in her expression. Her face showed momentary despondency, as if a part of her had returned to her past, witnessing betrayal with her own eyes. Max held Vonda¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I apologize, really. I had no intention of reminding you of that.¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not bothered by what you said,¡± she said, trying to uplift her spirits. ¡°In fact, I think what you said is true.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡±


    ¡°What you said earlier¡­¡±


    Now Vonda¡¯s smile felt more genuine, not forced.


    ¡°A smart girl wouldn¡¯t forgive infidelity, right?¡±


    Max was taken aback for a moment. For reasons he could not fathom, he felt the need tofort Vonda. So, he spoke impulsively.


    ¡°You¡¯ll surely find the best guy. You¡¯re at a high level. Don¡¯t settle for someone beneath you. What should happen is a guy who raises his level to match yours.¡±


    Vonda blinked. She could not believe what Max had just said, and it made her heart flutter.


    Seeing Vonda¡¯s bright and gleaming eyes on him, Max felt awkward. Rubbing his neck, he said, ¡°Well, that means you have to put in a lot of effort. Because, you know¡­¡± Max nced to the side slightly, ¡°Good guys are bing rare, especially those who are above your level.¡±


    Max¡¯s statement made Vonda¡¯s stunned expression turn rxed again.


    ¡°I¡¯m worried that, in your circle now, I¡¯m the only good guy with a high level you¡¯ve met.¡±


    And that final sentence made Vonda burst intoughter,pletely forgetting the dark thoughts that had crossed her mind earlier.


    ¡°You?¡± Vonda asked teasingly. ¡°You¡¯re quite full of yourself, Sir.¡±


    Max¡¯s expression changed. ¡°Hey! Are you doubting me? Seriously?¡± Max was genuinely offended by Vonda¡¯s doubtful response. ¡°Really?¡±


    However, Vonda didn¡¯t answer that question. Instead, she let herughter flow freely, ovepping with Max¡¯s protestation that he was being doubted by her.


    *

 Crazy Alliance

    After Max left, Vonda immediately cleansed herself. She filled the bathtub with warm water and soaked herself in it. For a while, approaching midnight, Vonda enjoyed thefort of the rxing scent ofvender and the soft bubbles on her skin.


    Ehm¡­ Vonda felt so at ease. As she yed with the bubbles on her bare body, she repeatedly let out sighs of relief. Despite some unexpected events that evening, Max¡¯s openness instantly calmed Vonda¡¯s feelings.


    Well, I know I can¡¯t really marry Max. And pretending to be his girlfriend doesn¡¯t seem like a bad idea either.


    Vonda¡¯s hands scooped up a handful of bubbles, blowing them into the air, creating soap bubbles that flew around.


    Instead of being single and sad, why not take this opportunity to be happy? Besides¡­ Max¡¯s mom is nice too.


    Suddenly, a smile appeared on Vonda¡¯s lips as she remembered Riley¡¯s invitation for her toe over.


    If I go, she said he¡¯ll cook other delicious meals. Who would refuse good food, right?


    *


    For six days, Vonda suffered from ack of quality sleep. Nightmares caused by Max had kept her awake in the middle of the night, leading to insomnia. However, this time was different.


    On Saturday morning ¨C which could not exactly be considered early since it was already 10 AM- Vonda woke up with a broad smile on her face. She yawned a few times to shake off the remnants of sleep from her eyelids, realizing how delightful her sleep had been this time.


    Still lying on the bed, Vonda stretched her body a few times, yawned again, and then got out of bed. The first thing she did was check her phone. Living without a phone for six days had made her curious about what had been happening out there.


    Intending to check her WhatsApp messages, Vonda found three new messages that furrowed her brow. There was Andrew¡¯s name in the third message, but there were two new numbers above it. Ignoring Andrew¡¯s message, she immediately opened the one from the new number.


    The message hade inst night at twelve minutes past midnight, but at that time, Vonda had been wandering around in her dream world.


    +0 123 xxxx:


    Vonda. If Mom contacts you, don¡¯t panic, okay?


    There was no introduction before the message, but Vonda could easily guess whose number it was.


    ¡°Max?¡±


    Without hesitation, Vonda moved to the topmost message. It was sent a few hours ago at 7 AM. At that time, Vonda was still wandering in her dreams.


    +0 123 xxxx:


    Vonda. It¡¯s me, dear. Riley.


    Are you awake?


    Vonda could not contain a surprised exmation, quickly covering her mouth with one hand to prevent any mosquitoes from entering. That would be troublesome.


    ¡°Oh my God. She really contacted me.¡±


    Trying to remain calm, Vonda walked slowly out of her room, heading towards the kitchen ind while thinking about how to reply to Riley¡¯s message.


    Vonda:


    Hey, Mom. I¡¯m up, Mom.


    I had a sound sleepst night. Maybe it¡¯s because I was so full after eating your cooking.


    Vonda left her phone on the kitchen ind as she went to the fridge. She took out a box of frozen strawberries and some yogurt, preparing a simple ss of juice. When she returned, Riley¡¯s reply had already arrived.


    Riley:


    Oh my. That¡¯s great. If you want,e to my ce more often. I¡¯m not lying. I will cook something else for you.


    Vonda took a sip of water before moving on to the pink juice and then sending her reply.


    Vonda:


    Oh, Mom. If you offer like that, I feel tempted. I¡¯lle over sometime, Mom.


    Vonda noticed that Riley had read her message. While waiting for Riley¡¯s response, Vonda suddenly found the situation amusing.


    Where else can you find someone who chats morefortably with their friend¡¯s mom before even talking to their friend? Hihihi.


    Riley:


    I will wait, alright.


    By the way, do you have any ns for today, Von?


    Vonda finished her strawberry juice, leaving an empty ss. As she ran her tongue over her lips, she typed her response.


    Vonda:


    I don¡¯t have any ns, Mom.


    Probably just staying in the apartment.


    After sending the message, Vonda¡¯s mind suddenly thought of something. Why did Riley ask her about her ns? Did she have a hunch that Riley would¡­


    Ting!


    Riley¡¯s reply came in quickly, and Vonda read it immediately.


    Riley:


    Shall we go out? You can share your location, and I will pick you up. Rather than me staying at home with Kitty all the time.


    Kitty?


    Vondaughed, recalling the name of the cat. But a momentter, she pondered.


    Going out? Well, it would not hurt, actually.


    Vonda shared her location with Riley and replied to the message.


    Vonda:


    What time are we going?


    It did not take long for Riley to respond to Vonda¡¯s message.


    Riley:


    How about eleven? Let¡¯s have lunch outside.


    Vonda nodded in agreement and replied.


    Vonda:


    Okay.


    I¡¯ll get ready.


    *


    In a different ce, Max finished a thirty-minute workout on the treadmill. As the sun rose, he reached for a small bottle of mineral water, opened it, and greedily took a sip. A few droplets of sweat were visible, covering his face and the body beneath the sleeveless thin shirt, making the fabric stick to his body and entuating the contours inside.


    Max brought the water bottle with him, settling down in the living room. He took deep breaths to calm his slightly racing heartbeat. Then, he looked at his phone, specifically at the message he sent to Vonda.


    His forehead furrowed when he noticed the two gray ticks in the message had turned blue, indicating that Vonda had read it.


    ¡°Why hasn¡¯t she replied to my message?¡±


    Max set the water bottle on the table and started typing a message to Vonda, his thumbs moving impatiently. He really wanted to call Vonda, but he refrained from doing so. He did not want to appear too panicked, although deep down, he actually was.


    How could he not be panicking when Riley suddenly called him right before he went to sleep? Especially since Riley asked for Vonda¡¯s phone number.


    Luckily, Max already had Vonda¡¯s number. Since the first day he became the new department head, he had gotten Vonda¡¯s phone number, probably through the HR department, to make things easier in case he needed her assistance.


    Max¡¯s emotions were all over the ce, but he could not refuse to give Vonda¡¯s number to Riley. There was no valid reason to refuse. He could not im that he didn¡¯t have Vonda¡¯s number; that would be a tant lie.


    Annoyed by the wait for a reply, Max almost gave in and called Vonda. But then, her response came in along with a photo. The photo made him gape, almost unable to believe it. It was quite a revtion.


    Vonda:


    Sorry for thete reply.


    It¡¯s the weekend, so I¡¯ve been busy chilling.


    Here, having lunch with your mom.


    Max could not believe the message, but what about the photo? The undeniable proof shocked him.


    ¡°Oh my God. Why is Vonda having lunch with my mom?¡±


    Still in shock over the photo of Vonda and Riley with their puckered lips in a cute pose, Max received a video call on his phone. With a sigh, he answered the video call.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    Riley waved at him. ¡°Max! Have you had lunch?¡±


    Swallowing hard, Max could only shake his head in disbelief, especially when he heard Riley saying.


    ¡°Vonda,e here. I am video calling Max.¡±


    ¡°Eh? You¡¯re contacting Max?¡±


    Oh, my goodness. How did they be so familiar with each other like this?


    If there was any lingering doubt in Max¡¯s mind about how close Riley and Vonda could be in such a short time, it vanished in an instant as Vonda appeared on the phone screen. Her wide smile was so bright and cheerful.


    ¡°Max!¡±


    Oh, my goodness! Whether she realized it or not, Vonda called out his name and even waved along with Riley.


    ¡°Today, I n to go shopping with Vonda,¡± Riley said. ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Von?¡±


    Vonda nodded.


    ¡°And we¡¯re going to the salon too. Mom has a few gray hairs,¡± Vonda said with a mischievous expression, obviously teasing.


    ¡°She is a rebellious future daughter-inw, Max,¡± Riley teased. ¡°So, I¡¯ll tell Vonda to bring the shopping bags. Let her learn her lesson.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Okay, then I¡¯ll bring the shopping bags back to my ce.¡±


    ¡°Hey, why are you being naughty, future daughter-inw?¡±


    Oh, my goodness!


    Max could only gape as he watched the two women from different generationsughing heartily on the other end. He had no idea what they were talking about anymore. All he knew was that a few momentster, he realized something. For some inexplicable reason, he suddenly felt like he had been cursed with a lifetime of bad luck.


    The alliance of these unpredictable women had formed, Audience. Brace yourselves, because I might be going even crazier.


    *

 Shadow of Marriage

    Vonda truly enjoyed thefort of the moment, especially when a pair of hands massaged her head skillfully. It felt as if all her problems would disappear in the blink of an eye. Speaking of eyes¡­ ugh! Vonda felt her stomach full, and the massage made her eyelids heavy. She was on the verge of falling asleep if not for Riley¡¯s voice calling out to her.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Vonda opened her eyes and looked at therge mirror in front of them, unable to turn her head. Through the reflection, she could see Riley, who was in a simr position.


    Riley smiled with her hair wrapped in aluminum foil, and Vonda returned azy smile while still enjoying the head massage.


    ¡°I almost fell asleep.¡±


    Riley chuckled softly, thanking the salon attendant before she left. Riley would have to wait at least an hour for the new hair color to set.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I called you earlier. I didn¡¯t want to bother waking you up.¡± Riley let out a long breath. ¡°You probably don¡¯t know, huh? I have wanted this for a long time.¡±


    ¡°Wanted what?¡±


    ¡°Going to the salon with my daughter,¡± Riley said.


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve always envied my friends when they share stories about going out with their daughters. Going to the salon together. Even to the gym. Well, I can¡¯t go to the salon with Max, right?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡±


    Vonda burst outughing spontaneously. Riley¡¯s words immediately turned into an image in her mind. She pictured Max raising his five fingers while someone was applying nail polish on his nails.


    Riley waved her hand, dispelling the imagination and Vonda¡¯sughter.


    ¡°No need tough so hard, Von,¡± Riley said with a smile. ¡°I know it¡¯s not possible to go to the salon with Max. But because of you¡­ I can finally make that dreame true.¡±


    Vonda nced at her. ¡°I enjoy going to the salon. Don¡¯t worry. When you get tired of deep auburn, just give me a call. We can change it to mahogany.¡±


    This time, it was Riley whoughed. ¡°Edmund will love me even more when he sees me looking this beautiful.¡±


    ¡°Definitely,¡± Vonda replied, equally enthusiastic. ¡°Especially if we wear matching gowns, right? Wow!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. After this, let¡¯s look for gowns. You must be good at picking clothes.¡±


    Vonda nced briefly at the mirror¡¯s reflection, right when the warm water washed over her hair, and she felt proud.


    ¡°It¡¯s a talent I was born with.¡±


    ¡°By the way, speaking of gowns,¡± Riley continued. ¡°When do you think we should start looking for your wedding gown?¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    It seemed like a bubble entered Vonda¡¯s eye, causing her to wince in difort.


    ¡°Oh! I¡¯m sorry, Miss.¡±


    Vonda blinked her eyes repeatedly. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Miss.¡± She epted the tissue offered and quickly wiped her eyes.


    After making sure Vonda was okay, Riley resumed speaking.


    ¡°Uh¡­ you¡¯ll look beautiful in a wedding gown, I¡¯m sure.¡±


    Vonda swallowed hard. Perhaps her reaction earlier was more due to surprise at Riley¡¯s question than the bubble.


    A wedding gown?


    ¡°Ehm,¡± Vonda suddenly felt her tongue tied. She was unsure how to respond to Riley¡¯s words.


    Riley nced at her again. ¡°Honestly, I can¡¯t wait sincest night. I feel like rushing to your house.¡±


    ¡°To my house?¡± Vonda asked dumbfounded. ¡°But you just picked me up earlier, Ma.¡±


    ¡°Not your house, I mean your family¡¯s house.¡±


    What?!


    Riley continued with excitement. ¡°I want to meet your parents and¡­ do you have any siblings?¡±


    Confused, but Vonda still nodded. ¡°I have five younger siblings, Ma.¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± Riley eximed. ¡°A big family.¡±


    Vonda grinned. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s how it is. So, if you never go out with daughters, I also never go out with Mama at home.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see I see.¡± Riley nodded, understanding. ¡°The oldest daughter is actually the youngest one who didn¡¯t get pampered.¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ that¡¯s how it is. I¡¯m actually busier taking care of my siblings.¡±


    Riley reached out, caressing Vonda¡¯s hand from her seat. ¡°Then we¡¯re a perfect match, aren¡¯t we? I can get what I want, and so can you.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Vonda whispered, realizing the truth. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°The secrets of God work like this. That¡¯s why, Vonda, I think it¡¯s better to meet your family sooner.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s expression changed instantly. From being amazed by the simrities between her and Riley to being shocked by the topic of proposal that came up again.


    ¡°I think your family is fertile, aren¡¯t they?¡± Riley continued.


    Fertile?


    Vonda blinked repeatedly.


    ¡°I had a hard time conceiving Max, oh my goodness.¡±


    Ignoring Vonda¡¯s puzzled look, Riley chose to share about her past, a time when she almost lost hope.


    ¡°We went to various doctors, but it seemed like a dead end. We didn¡¯t know how else to try to conceive Max, Von.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Riley¡¯s smile widened. ¡°That¡¯s why Mama named him Max. It was a truly maximum effort. Hehehe.¡±


    Seeing Riley¡¯sughter, the somber atmosphere that Vonda felt earlier disappeared instantly, reced by amusement.


    ¡°You can¡¯t imagine it, right? Going to the doctors to check the uterus and everything, but we were all healthy. That¡¯s why the hope remained. People would suggest various things to us. Try this style, try that style -¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    This time, Vonda burst intoughter. Thankfully, her hair was already rinsed. Otherwise, water might have sshed everywhere.


    ¡°And you¡¯reughing at what I¡¯m saying,¡± Riley said amusingly. ¡°You¡¯re something else.¡±


    ¡°Well, you do it too. Why did you talk about any style?¡±


    Riley smiled sheepishly. ¡°What else can we do? At that time, I was just fixated on having a child as soon as possible. But trying different style didn¡¯t make us conceive Max any faster. Instead, it was Edmund who never wanted to stop.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Mom!¡± Vonda shouted.


    Behind them, the salon staff serving them could not help but smile at their conversation.


    ¡°Just,¡± Riley whispered. ¡°Listening to your story, it seems like if you and Max get married, you won¡¯t take long to have children.¡±


    The remnants ofughter still lingered on Vonda¡¯s lips. ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°It seems like your uterus is fertile.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Mom, you¡¯re something else.¡±


    Riley lightly tapped Vonda¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯m serious, Vonda. Come here, I will tell you something.¡±


    Wiping away the tears that formed at the corner of her eyes, Vonda looked at Riley. ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°Ehm.¡± Riley cleared her throat. ¡°Actually, I didn¡¯t want to say this. Not that there¡¯s anything wrong with it, but people say that future daughters-inw usually get scared when the future mother-inw talks about things like this. But I think, being honest is better, right?¡±


    ¡°Eh? What is it?¡±


    This time, Riley really tried to look at Vonda, though it was a bit difficult since she had to maintain the position of the aluminum foil in her hair.


    ¡°I really hope that you and Max can get married soon.¡±


    Vonda was stunned. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°If you get married and can have children soon, it would make I really happy. Having children is in God¡¯s hands. But there¡¯s no harm in hoping, right? Who knows, maybe God will take pity on me. Come on, Von. It¡¯s already difficult to have children, and is it also difficult to have grandchildren? God wouldn¡¯t be that cruel to me, right?¡±


    Vonda was left speechless by Riley¡¯s words. She felt confused and almost numb, but it was also funny in a way.


    ¡°Your children will surely be cute. Look at you, so beautiful. They will definitely be cuter than Kitty¡¯s kittens.¡±


    Huh?


    ¡°Because I am tired of taking care of kittens, Von. This time, I really want to take care of human children. Your babies.¡±


    Imagining herself getting married to Max, her belly swollen with their baby, and giving birth¡­ left Vondapletely speechless.


    ¡°Max, he¡¯s thirsty. He wants milk first.¡±


    ¡°Ehm, I don¡¯t want. I also want milk, Von.¡±


    Vonda closed her eyes. It seemed like the massage earlier didn¡¯t rx her, but rather the opposite. Her head felt dizzy and spinning.


    Me and Max married? We might ruin the next generation of the nation.


    *


    In the beginning, Max thought that Vonda and Riley¡¯s meeting had resolved the problem. Well, it did, actually. The issue had been resolved.


    Olivia had informed Max that their family was looking for the right time to formally cancel the arranged marriage. Max could not imagine how happy Olivia must have been during that phone call. However,


    Max rubbed the bridge of his nose.


    Why does a new problem have to arise now?


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Max blinked. He was snapped out of his reverie as Riley¡¯s voicended in his ears. Through the phone call, Max realized the new problem that had emerged.


    ¡°Good intentions should not be dyed for too long, Max. Come back home.¡±


    Good intentions? What is Mom talking about?


    It felt like Max wanted to scream hysterically right then and there. If his brain had not reminded him that he had to be at the office soon, he would have surely messed up his hair, loosened his tie, and made a mess of his clothes.


    ¡°Besides, I feel reallypatible with Vonda,¡± Riley continued.


    ¡°Oh my¡­¡±


    The exmation escaped Max¡¯s lips; horror evident in his tone. It was like a terrifying expression imprinted on his face.


    ¡°It¡¯s amazing,¡± Max said incredulously. ¡°You¡¯ve only met her twice, and you already feelpatible?¡±


    ¡°Like what I said,¡± Riley said with disbelief in her voice. ¡°You¡¯re really smart in choosing a wife. It wasn¡¯t wrong at all for you to stubbornly cancel the arranged marriage yesterday. Although Olivia is also a good girl, but with Vonda, I feel a real connection.¡±


    There¡¯s a local earthquake happening in my unit, Max thought.


    Max chose to sit at the edge of the bed. It was safer than suddenly passing out on the floor, right? It was better to faint on the bed.


    ¡°And yesterday, that proves she and I arepatible. Remember when I was confused about what hair color to dye? Vonda-¡±


    ¡°Mom, you dyed your hair?!¡± Max was hysterical. ¡°Seriously dyed your hair?¡±


    ¡°Of course, Max. Now she looks ten years younger. Vonda¡¯s taste is impable. Your dad was amazed to see me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that¡¯s because Dad could barely recognize his own wife.¡±


    ¡°Well, Dad said I looked even more beautiful.¡±


    Boom!


    Oh, my goodness! This is not good for my health. How did Mom be like this with Vonda? Vonda and I were just pretending. Oh God. I can¡¯t really marry her, can I?


    Gosh!


    The thought of Max marrying Vonda, spending days together with her, maybe having one child, even more¡­ suddenly made Max gasp for breath.


    ¡°Von, she¡¯s crying now. She wants to y horsey ride.¡±


    ¡°Ehm, I don¡¯t want. I also want to y horsey ride with you, Max.¡±


    Max closed his eyes. In that moment, he felt like his blood pressure dropped drastically. The world spun in his head.


    Me and her married? This could add to the generation of craziness in Oceana.


    *

 Happiness

    ¡°Dududu dududu dududu. Nice to meet you, where you been? I could show you incredible things. Magic, madness, heaven, sin. Saw you there and I thought. Oh, my God, look at face. You look like my next mistake. Love¡¯s a game, wanna y?¡±


    Don¡¯t imagine Taylor Swift holding a solo concert in the courtyard of Greatech building that morning. Just don¡¯t! Seriously, don¡¯t even go there, because the one singing ¡°nk Space¡± was Vonda.


    She appeared radiant, her hair shining under the morning sun. Ironically, Vonda did not just disturb the morning ambiance with her tone-deaf singing; she also managed to ruin the view with her awkward movements, strutting as if she were a model on a catwalk.


    Sarah quickly covered one side of her face with her palm and hurried ahead of Vonda, who was still walking in.


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m not Sarah. I swear I don¡¯t know this crazy person,¡± Sarah said, taking the initiative to distance herself from Vonda.


    Vonda immediately stopped singing and called out, ¡°Sarah!¡±


    However, Sarah did not stop; she actually picked up her pace. This, in turn, urged Vonda to run after her. Finally, they caught each other just in front of the elevator.


    Phew!


    Perfect timing. Vonda grabbed Sarah¡¯s hand and pulled it down.


    ¡°You¡¯re really something, you know that?¡± Vonda scolded.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Sarah retorted. ¡°Seriously, Vonda. Do you know how sad Taylor Swift would be if she heard you sing her song like that? She might regret ever writing it.¡±


    The stifled giggles of the employees who overheard their strange conversation in the morning filled the elevator. Vonda frowned.


    ¡°Friends have no manners, do you?¡± she grumbled as the elevator doors opened.


    Waiting patiently, both Vonda and Sarah entered the lift. It was not too crowded, considering it was still very early in the morning.


    ¡°I don¡¯tck manners,¡± Sarah defended herself. ¡°Youckmon sense. Instead of feeding the less fortunate with a charity like eating porridge, you decide to treat them to a humiliating concert.¡±


    Vonda nced around once more, finding a few giggles still held back by some of the employees. Before long, she lightly tapped Sarah¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°You¡¯re really something, Sarah. As my best friend, you should be happy to see me this way.¡±


    ¡°Your happiness is my misfortune.¡±


    ¡°Ugh!¡± Vonda eximed.


    However, something suddenly crossed Sarah¡¯s mind as the lift continued its ascent. She turned her face to look at Vonda, who was now pouting with her arms crossed.


    Sarah realized something. Vonda did seem happy that morning. Unlike a week ago when she always appeared anxious and scared. It troubled Sarah.


    ¡°By the way,¡± Sarah whispered, ¡°why are you so happy?¡±


    Vonda turned to look at her, putting on her poker face, and replied, ¡°Like you care. Besides, I¡¯m not happy anymore because of you.¡±


    ¡°Come on, don¡¯t be such an old spinster throwing tantrums,¡± Sarah said.


    Vonda red.


    ¡°Oops! Sorry!¡± Sarah covered her mouth with three fingers, trying not tough.


    While others might have thought that Vonda was upset about being called an old spinster by Sarah, the two girls were actually thinking the opposite.


    Oh, right. Vonda has already, you know¡­ Sarah¡¯s inner voice giggled.


    In her mind, Vonda chimed in. Yeah, like I¡¯d still be a virgin after having done that three times. I¡¯d be in the Guinness World Records if I were!


    Sarah eventually burst intoughter. She wanted to continue teasing her friend, but unfortunately, the elevator had already arrived at Vonda¡¯s floor. She stepped out after yfully pinching Sarah¡¯s stomach, causing her friend to groan and curse before the elevator doors closed again.


    However, just two steps outside the lift, Vonda¡¯s happy aura returned. It was the moment she reached up to touch her long bangs that framed part of her forehead and extended behind her ears. So soft. As she smiled and walked towards her office, Vonda pondered that the salon was indeed the best ce to lift her spirits.


    Moreover, when she thought about it, there were many reasons for her to smile that Monday morning. Apart from the tender touches her hair received from the salon¡¯s magical hands, Vonda had driven to the office in her own car. Yay! And let¡¯s not forget the pair of sharp-heeled shoes she was wearing, seven centimeters high, which also contributed to her happiness. Oh yeah, no need to wonder. Those shoes were the result of her and Riley¡¯s shopping spree yesterday after the salon.


    Vonda entered her office, half-humming to herself. However, as she was about to close the door, she suddenly felt a push on her back, making her rush inside while the door quickly closed. She turned to find Max, who hade out of nowhere, surprising her.


    ¡°Max,¡± Vonda blinked. ¡°I mean, good morning, Sir.¡±


    Max waved a hand in front of his face. ¡°No need for formalities. I have something to ask you.¡±


    Vonda blinked again. ¡°What do you want to ask?¡±


    It took a lot of effort for Max to contain himself. He did not want to exert too much energy and end up screaming at that moment.


    ¡°How far are you and my mother?¡±


    Vonda was momentarily stunned by Max¡¯s question. She stared at the handsome guy with his thick ck eyebrows without expression.


    Unlike Vonda, Max was struggling to remain calm amid the pounding of his heart as he awaited her response.


    Vonda sighed for a moment. ¡°What do you mean, my rtionship with your mother?¡± she asked in a t tone. ¡°What are you trying to say?¡±


    Max was confused about how to phrase it, but eventually he exined what he meant.


    ¡°Are you and my mother close?¡±


    This time, Vonda furrowed her brow, tilting her head to one side.


    ¡°Close?¡± Vonda repeated the word. ¡°I don¡¯t know, are we close or not? But we were happy together yesterday.¡± She briefly rolled her eyes, as if reminiscing about their shopping spree the day before. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s it. We had lunch, went to the salon, and then went shopping.¡±


    Max stayed silent, observing Vonda, who seemed enthusiastic about recounting their time together.


    ¡°Oh! Look!¡± Vonda said, propping herself against the wall as she lifted one foot. ¡°These are the shoes your mother picked for me. They suit me, don¡¯t they?¡±


    That did not help Max at all; it only made him more hysterical. ¡°Why are you so close with my mother like this, Von?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Vonda was puzzled by Max¡¯s panicked expression. ¡°Am I not allowed to be close with your mother?¡±


    ¡°Oh my God.¡±


    Max seemed like he wanted to squeeze Vonda.


    Oh no! Which part of Vonda do I want to squeeze?


    Max tried to control his breath, attempting to remain calm in this situation.


    Dealing with these two crazy women required patience, Max. Otherwise, you might go crazy too. Imagine how the staff at the mental hospital must feel.


    ¡°Vonda Raveena Scott.¡±


    Perhaps for the first time, Max pronounced Vonda¡¯s full name with that intonation, which made her fall silent. It seemed to urge her to patiently wait for Max to continue speaking.


    ¡°You¡¯re not really my girlfriend, right?¡± Max continued. ¡°So why do you have to get close to my mother? You don¡¯t need to try to win her heart.¡±


    Win Riley¡¯s heart? Oh, clearly that was not Vonda¡¯s intention and goal. If Max wanted to know, Vonda actually wanted to distance herself from Riley from the very beginning.


    ¡°You¡¯re speaking carelessly,¡± Vonda said, taking a deep breath. ¡°You don¡¯t know how I felt when I woke up and suddenly met your mother, do you?¡±


    This time, Max waited for Vonda to continue.


    ¡°I was shocked, and it felt like I wanted to run away to Antarctica. Especially when Mom called me her future daughter-inw. Do you think I wanted that?¡± Vonda pouted. ¡°Honestly, I didn¡¯t want to, but¡­¡±


    ¡°But?¡± Max urged.


    ¡°But what can I do, Max? Mom is so kind. We just met, but it already feels like I¡¯m her own daughter. We went to the salon together, something I¡¯ve never experienced in my life. Not to mention she helped me pick out new shoes. It would be strange if I¡¯m not close to her while she¡¯s like that with me.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God!¡± Max growled, dramatically closing his eyes and pping his forehead.


    ¡°Besides, even if we¡¯re not really getting married, it doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t be close to your mother, right?¡±


    When Max opened his eyes, there was an indescribable look in them.


    ¡°Are you saying you don¡¯t want to share Mom with me a little?¡± Vonda asked. ¡°I¡¯ve been kind, you know? Saving you from an arranged marriage you didn¡¯t like. For something so important, don¡¯t I deserve even a little appreciation? I¡¯m the girl who helped you out!¡±


    Max was perplexed. ¡°But you also have a mother.¡±


    ¡°True, but my mother is not here,¡± Vonda said. ¡°Besides, Max, think about this. Wouldn¡¯t it be weird if your girlfriend doesn¡¯t want to get close to your mother?¡±


    Max blinked, pondering Vonda¡¯s question. Now, the change in his facial expression made him grin.


    ¡°Weird, right? Weird, right?¡± Vonda¡¯s grin widened as Max¡¯s forehead furrows increased. ¡°Of course, it¡¯s weird. Your family might start questioning the authenticity of our rtionship, and they will doubt it.¡±Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Hmm? Actually, what Vonda said was true.


    ¡°That¡¯s why, Max. Just consider it as me being a little generous to raise the level of my assistance. Not just pretending to be your girlfriend. But also, to convince your parents that we are genuinely dating. When else would you meet a girl with such a social soul as mine?¡±


    Max scratched his head. He felt that every word Vonda said was making him more confused. It was like he was now facing a seller of counterfeit goods by the roadside, an expert in manipting potential buyers¡¯ minds.


    Vonda smiled, ignoring Max¡¯s still uncertain face. She patted his shoulder gently a few times.


    ¡°Enough, Max. Rx. I being close to Mom won¡¯t make the world end any sooner.¡±


    Max widened his eyes. ¡°It might not make the world end sooner, but it feels like my world is ending sooner.¡±


    Vonda grinned. ¡°Rx. Just rx.¡±


    While Max was still confused by the situation, Vonda moved towards her desk just as a message came in, causing her phone to vibrate. Vonda quickly read the message.


    Riley:


    Vonda, do you know what? Edmund seems to want to take me on a honeymoon again. This must be because of my new hair.


    From where he stood, Max could see Vonda smiling as she typed something on her phone. He felt ufortable. On one hand, Vonda immediately replied to the message.


    Vonda:


    Wow, that sounds great. But you can¡¯t be happy alone, right? Where¡¯s my share?


    Vonda ced her work bag on the table and slowly sat in her chair, preparing to read Riley¡¯s next message.


    Riley:


    The reward is the prayers and blessings for your and Max¡¯s happiness in marriage. A mother¡¯s prayer is more powerful than anything, Von. Amen.


    Vonda jumped from her seat. ¡°What?!¡±


    *

 Anticipation Stage

    ¡°Dear God, Ma, please.¡±


    Max¡¯s whining voice was heard again that morning. It sounded exactly like yesterday, two days ago, three days ago, or even four days ago. Not only were the whining phrases the same, but the look of desperation on his face and the tone of his voice were also identical.


    Max sat on the edge of the bed, holding the phone to his ear for the ongoing morning call. The call, as usual, wasing from Riley.


    ¡°Every day, I just want to have breakfast with sds, not with a phone call from Mama.¡±


    A short sigh from Riley was heard from the other side. ¡°Well, I¡¯ll not call you everyday if you have met Vonda¡¯s family. So, just do it and everything will be okay.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Max blinked. ¡°What did you say, Mom?¡±


    ¡°You have to meet Vonda¡¯s parents. At least, you need to get closer to her family. Oh my God, Max. You¡¯re dating and going to get married.¡±


    Riley¡¯s words seeded in making Max dramatically close his eyes. He really did not want to bother to say that his head was spinning. His expression alone was more than enough to show how much his head was currently spinning.


    Max did not expect that Vonda¡¯s meeting with her birth mother would ignite something else. Something bigger than the canceled arranged marriage between him and Olivia.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    Max whispered that call as softly as possible. This time, he tried his luck again to be able to calm his mother¡¯s feelings. After all, Max understood very well the reason why Riley always pushed him to get married quickly.


    ¡°Can you give me a little time?¡±


    ¡°Time? Time for what?¡±


    Max thought of several reasons in his mind, but in the end, he tried to say it like this.


    ¡°Vonda and I do love each other.¡±


    Oh dear, thank goodness I haven¡¯t had breakfast yet. Otherwise, I¡¯d probably vomit.


    ¡°But marriage also requires preparation, Mom. It¡¯s not just about being financially ready.¡±


    Now it was Riley¡¯s turn to stay silent on the other side. It seemed that Max¡¯s words managed to leave Riley speechless.


    ¡°Look at how many divorce cases there are,¡± Max continued. ¡°We might end up in court every time there¡¯s a problem if we¡¯re not mentally prepared. Do you want us to file for divorce over trivial matters just a month after getting married?¡±


    Softly, but still audible, Riley¡¯s voice came through. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Mom. That¡¯s why let us get to know each other slowly, step by step, okay?¡± Max pleaded. ¡°No matter what, if we¡¯re destined to be together, we won¡¯t go anywhere, right? It¡¯s a different story if we¡¯re not meant to be together. Even if you offer a sacrifice to the Vampire King, we still won¡¯t be a match.¡±


    ¡°You,¡± grumbled Riley.


    ¡°Mom, what I¡¯m saying is true,¡± Max said firmly.


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes. You¡¯re right.¡± Riley¡¯s sigh was clearly audible on the other side. ¡°But¡­ I feel a connection with Vonda. You two seem to be a good match. If you get married, I hope your marriage will be full ofughter.¡±


    Max smiled wryly upon hearing Riley¡¯s words.


    ¡°Okay, if that¡¯s the case, I won¡¯t discuss marriage with you anymore, but¡­¡±


    The relief Max had just felt a moment ago suddenly disappeared. His mind wondered why the word ¡®but¡¯ always had to follow every conversation they had.


    ¡°But what, Mom?¡±


    Riley exhaled before continuing to talk. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean you neglect your duties.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°What Mama means is, don¡¯t forget to meet Vonda¡¯s family.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°And try to bring Vonda to our house, okay?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Because your father also wants to meet Vonda, Max.¡±


    Max opened his eyes briefly upon hearing that. He was not surprised by that request. What would really surprise Max is if, in the aftermath of Riley¡¯s news, his father did not want to meet Vonda.


    Oh God. If Vonda meeting Mom already caused such amotion, what would happen if she met Dad too?


    But what could Max do other than agreeing to Riley¡¯s request?


    ¡°I¡¯ll try, Mom. Just not this week, okay?¡± Before Max could hear any objections from his mother, he continued, ¡°I¡¯m a bit busy now, Mom. I have to go to the field to check on a project that¡¯s been dyed for a few months. So, there¡¯s a lot to handle. You haven¡¯t forgotten, right? I came to Ashford City to help Lucas, not to y around.¡±


    This time, Riley¡¯s voice sounded apologetic. ¡°Oh, I see. I won¡¯t forget, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Max felt relieved. ¡°Okay then, I have to go now. I need to get ready. This morning I¡¯ll go directly to the field.¡±


    ¡°Alright. For the time being, I won¡¯t call again.¡±


    Max could not help but wonder why, among so many sentences that could be said to end a call, Riley chose to say that.


    For the time being? Oh dear.


    ¡°But, remember to bring Vonda home soon, Max. I¡¯m waiting.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom. I will.¡±


    ¡°Okay then. I¡¯ll end the call now. Take care and be safe on the road,¡± continued Riley. ¡°I love you, Max.¡±


    For that statement, Max did not object at all. ¡°I love you too, Mom.¡±


    Then the call ended. Max immediately let out a long sigh.


    ¡°Oh my. Thank goodness I only have one Mom. I can¡¯t even imagine if I had many moms. I¡¯d probably pass out on the spot.¡±


    *


    That morning, Vonda chose to dress a little differently than usual. She opted for a more casual outfit, leaving behind her usual pointed high-heeled shoes that she often wore to the office. This decision was because she would apany Max to inspect a construction site for a tower that had been on hold for several months.


    Vonda wore long pants and a shirt paired with cone-type heels. The safer heels allowed her to traverse the slightly rocky terrain. She still wanted to look neat and attractive rather than wearing a mismatched outfit of formal clothing with sneakers.


    When she arrived in the room, Vonda did not find Max there yet. While waiting, she immediately prepared some documents that might be needed for the re-inspectionter.


    Ting!


    Vonda heard the notification sound from her phone. There was a message, and it was from someone she really did not want to know anymore.


    Andrew:


    Von! Are you avoiding me? Why haven¡¯t you paid for the car this month, huh?


    Vonda let out a long sigh. She could not help but be speechless at the message from Andrew.


    ¡°Why did I ever date a guy like him?¡±


    The spontaneous question slipped from her lips just as Max pushed the door open and entered the room. His sharp ears managed to catch Vonda¡¯s subtle murmuring without the slightest mistake. And without any mistake, he could also guess who the subject of her talk was.


    ¡°That¡¯s why ¡­ you should donate regrly to attract good guys,¡±mented Max as he continued walking. ¡°Donations are for warding off bad luck.¡±


    Vonda frowned but did not pay much attention to Max¡¯s words. Instead, she got up from her seat and took a stic folder in her hand.


    ¡°Shall we go now?¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Sure. Let me put my bag away first.¡±


    Vonda waited for a moment until Max returned to the room. They then headed to the parking lot, walking side by side.


    ¡°Just use your car, Von,¡± Max suggested when they reached the parking lot. With one hand in his pants pocket, he turned to Vonda while continuing to walk. ¡°We should save on fuel. For the beloved ozoneyer.¡±


    Vonda rolled her eyes briefly. Max¡¯s two sentences were true, but they were not rted at all. At least not directly.


    Five minutester, the car was already on the road. It was not heavy traffic, but it was not very clear either. At least Vonda managed to maintain the speed of the car around forty to fifty kilometers per hour.


    When they arrived, they were greeted by the contractor on site. Engaging in casual small talk, he immediately showed them around the location.


    ¡°Well, Mr. Maxwell Hernandez, the construction is nned to take ce here,¡± said the man named Sandy Jackson, raising his hand to point at the vacant lot with square boundaries.


    Max nodded and extended his hand to Vonda, who handed him the stic folder she brought. Max examined the documents inside, containing the blueprints and ns for the construction, then proceeded to ask some questions.


    While Max discussed with Sandy, Vonda attentively listened. She made sure to take note of important details and reminded Max when he almost forgot something.


    ¡°This ce looks good,¡± Max remarked.


    They were still circling the area with Vonda by his side, while Sandy searched for a specific document that needed signing for the construction to proceed soon.


    ¡°Strategic location, and the power supply is adequate.¡±


    Vonda nodded in agreement. ¡°Yes, Sir. The previous department head was indeedpetent, even if he could be a bit difficult sometimes.¡±


    Max nced at Vonda and could see how adept she was at shifting her focus. He appreciated that Vonda could call him Max or Sir without mistaking the timing and situation. Impressive.


    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Max responded.


    Shortly afterward, Max signed the necessary documents, and the stalled tower construction was set to resume.


    With nothing else to attend to there, Max and Vonda left the site just before eleven o¡¯clock. Max adjusted his wristwatch, looking ahead as Vonda drove smoothly.


    ¡°It¡¯s almost lunchtime,¡± Max said. ¡°We might reach the office around twelve, considering the traffic is starting to build up.¡±


    Vonda agreed and looked back at Max, trying to figure out the meaning behind his words. ¡°Do you want to have lunch right away?¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Max hummed briefly. ¡°Sounds like a good idea, right?¡± he asked. ¡°Besides, I didn¡¯t have breakfast this morning.¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°I already knew that,¡± Vonda replied, looking ahead again. ¡°Just by looking at you, I can tell you¡¯re ate riser.¡±


    Max made a face. ¡°You¡¯re making judgments based on just one time you saw me wake upte.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! It was a clear sign. I left, and you didn¡¯t even notice,¡± Vonda chuckled.


    ¡°Ugh! It¡¯s not like I wake upte every day. You have no idea how exhausting it was. I must have sweated for hours that night. I didn¡¯t use any stamina-enhancing drugs either.¡±


    Vonda blushed and felt her face heat up. ¡°Can we not talk about that while I¡¯m driving? I might get into an ident, you know.¡±


    ¡°You started it by using me of being ate riser. Little did you know I didn¡¯t have time for breakfast because I had to deal with Mom¡¯s phone calls every morning.¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Vonda nced briefly. ¡°Even though Mom calls me every morning, I still manage to have breakfast.¡±


    Max tensed up at Vonda¡¯s words. Realizing there was something he needed to ask and rify immediately.


    ¡°Whose Mom calling?¡±


    ¡°Your mom,¡± Vonda replied casually. ¡°She asked me toe to your house next Sunday.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re really going.¡±


    Vonda turned the steering wheel, directing the car towards a cafe. After parking the car, she turned to Max, unbuckling her seatbelt as she spoke.


    ¡°Well, Mom said she wanted to make Beef Wellington for me, Max. I can¡¯t possibly turn down such a delicious meal.¡±


    Max gawked.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, Von. Aren¡¯t you worried that being too close to my family might be dangerous for both of us? After all, we¡¯re just pretending.¡±


    Vonda smiled and patted Max¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Andrew and I reached the second stage of the family meeting for the marriage proposal yesterday. The result? It failed. So, just enjoy it.¡±


    Gulp!


    Max swallowed his saliva. For a moment, he was dumbfounded by Vonda¡¯s nonchnt grin. It was as if what she had just said was trivial. However, Max did not think of it that way. A momentter, whether consciously or not, he said,


    ¡°Andrew and I are different.¡±


    *

 Source of Confusion

    As Vonda stood up from her chair, she noticed Max exiting his office with his work bag in hand. It was evident that he was ready to leave, which was not unusual since it was already the end of the workday. However, in her memory, Max had never left the office early. He usually waited until the office was a bit quieter before heading home. But that Friday afternoon seemed to be an exception.


    Max looked at Vonda, who was tidying up her belongings, and proceeded to close the door. ¡°I¡¯m heading out first. Have a great weekend,¡± he said.


    Vonda smiled. ¡°Sure. Have a great weekend too.¡±


    Perhaps it was because Vonda and Max first met in an unusual situation, and their rtionship had developed in even stranger circumstances, that their dynamic in the office seemed less professional. There was no typical boss-subordinate formality between them.


    As Max exited the room, Vonda continued to organize her things, feeling a bit rushed due to a call she received a few minutes ago, which urged her to finish her work quickly.


    However, instead of heading home immediately, Max took an elevator to the upper floor. He walked hurriedly towards a beautiful woman sitting at the secretary¡¯s desk. She stood up and greeted him, ¡°Good afternoon, Mr. Maxwell Hernandez.¡±


    Max smiled in response, ¡°Luc-¡± he blinked and shook his head once, ¡°No. I mean, is Mr. Hernandez inside?¡±


    The beautiful secretary named Vlora Anderson. She smiled, ¡°Yes, he¡¯s in.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. I can go in by myself, no need to apany me,¡± Max quickly said when the secretary tried to stand up.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Max proceeded to the office and muttered under his breath, ¡°Come on, Max. You¡¯ve been working here for two weeks, and you still haven¡¯t seen the newlywed. Unbelievable.¡±


    Knock! Knock! Knock!


    Max knocked on the door three times before hearing a voice from inside, ¡°Come in.¡±


    Max cleared his throat, prepared himself, and opened the door. As he entered, he immediately saw a man standing up from his desk.


    ¡°Look who¡¯s here!¡± Lucas eximed.


    Max winced, cing his work bag on the sofa momentarily without stopping his stride. He walked towards his cousin, who was also thepany¡¯s CEO.


    ¡°Lucas,¡± Max greeted, embracing the warm hug. ¡°Don¡¯t make me feel even worse.¡±


    The embrace between the two grown men ended.


    ¡°Feel worse?¡± Lucas raised an eyebrow. ¡°For calling you during office hours?¡±


    Oh no.


    Max winced.


    I¡¯m getting criticized already, and we haven¡¯t even started.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Max scratched his head, pointing at the sofa. ¡°Please have a seat, Luc.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Lucas¡¯s eyes widened.


    Max facepalmed. ¡°This isn¡¯t my office, is it?¡± He forced a nervousugh. ¡°Sorry, Luc. Sorry.¡±


    Lucas grinned, brushing off Max¡¯s apology as he indeed sat down. From the corner of his eye, he noticed Max taking a seat in front of him.


    ¡°So,¡± Lucas began, ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for a few days. Almost two weeks, actually. I thought I¡¯d let you take the initiative to contact me, or maybe you¡¯d suddenly show up at my house, but-¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯te.¡± Max chose to finish the sentence himself. ¡°I know I messed up this time, Luc. It won¡¯t be forgiven in a lifetime, especially considering that you won¡¯t have another wedding.¡±


    Lucas¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Don¡¯t speak recklessly, Max. I had a hard time getting married.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s exactly it, Luc. Haven¡¯t you thought about having a second wedding? To make it more memorable? Marrying the same woman twice.¡±


    Lucas fell silent for a moment, then slowly grinned. ¡°So that you have a chance to redeem yourself?¡± His grin turned into a smile. ¡°Forget it. We don¡¯t need to discuss it anymore. What matters now is when you n toe to my house.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Max looked away.


    ¡°Do you have any ns to visit?¡± Lucas inquired. ¡°Or?¡±


    ¡°Of course, Luc,¡± Max replied quickly. ¡°I will definitelye to your house as soon as possible. I know it sounds like ame excuse, but¡­ recently, I¡¯ve been preupied with something urgent.¡±


    Lucas shot a probing look at Max but held his tongue momentarily when the office door was knocked once, and Vlora walked in, serving two cups of tea to them.


    After making sure the door was closed again, Lucas continued to inquire while Max raised his teacup, sipping the reddish-brown drink.


    ¡°Preupied with the girl you were ying horsey with in the car?¡± Lucas guessed with a mischievous glint in his eye.


    Pruuut!


    The tea almost spurted out from Max¡¯s mouth, causing an embarrassing moment. Lucas burst into heartyughter, while Max helplessly tried to stop his cough, feeling almost desperate as he wiped his mouth with two tissue papers.


    ¡°Lucas!¡± Max eximed. ¡°There¡¯s no need to bring that up.¡±


    ¡°I guess that girl is the reason your arranged marriage with Olivia got called off,¡± Lucas spected, his eyes squinting with amusement. He grinned mischievously. ¡°Am I right?¡±


    Max sighed wearily, feeling useless to lie about this matter, so he nodded.


    ¡°Damn!¡± Lucasughed again. ¡°I never thought you¡¯d actually get into a serious rtionship, Max. I thought your whole world was just about cars.¡±


    ¡°To be honest, if you ask me anything about cars right now, I probably won¡¯t be able to answer,¡± Max admitted.


    A furrow appeared on Lucas¡¯s forehead, urging Max to continue talking.


    ¡°My world is no longer about cars, but rather a rollercoaster of emotions. I didn¡¯t even think about getting my car servicedst week. Argh! I¡¯m so stressed out.¡±


    ¡°Stressed? What do you mean?¡± Lucas inquired.


    Max took a deep breath, looking at his cousin and speaking softly. ¡°I can¡¯t tell you what¡¯s bothering me.¡±


    Lucas observed the tired expression on Max¡¯s face. ¡°Ehm¡­ it seems you need some rest, Max.¡±


    ¡°I really hope that resting will bring some peace to my soul. But¡­ how can I rest when my phone keeps ringing all the time? And I always get the same question-when am I getting married?¡±


    ¡°I can imagine Aunt¡¯s face asking you that question,¡± Lucas chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t feel too pressured. Getting married is when you¡¯re ready.¡±


    ¡°Oh! If only my Mom, who¡¯s so eager to carry a baby, could think about this.¡±


    Lucasughed again.


    ¡°Mom said she¡¯s tired of carrying kitten. She wants to carry a baby. My baby. Impressive, right?¡±


    Lucas tried hard to stifle hisughter. ¡°Enough, Max. You¡¯d better go home and rest.¡±


    ¡°That does seem like a good idea.¡±


    ¡°Remember! I¡¯m waiting for you toe to my house soon,¡± Lucas reminded. ¡°One more thing! Don¡¯te alone.¡±


    Max¡¯s face changed.


    ¡°Bring the girl you were ying horsey with.¡±


    Max groaned. ¡°Thanks a lot for making me even more stressed, Luc.¡±


    A few momentster, Max left Lucas¡¯s office, traversing the floors in the elevator while contemting his future life.


    If Max did not have to be aware of his surroundings, he felt like messing up his hair. He remembered how Riley was so familiar with Vonda, even though they had only known each other for a few days, and warning signals in his head were ringing loudly. It was like a sign that it was not a good thing.


    Actually, Vonda was beautiful, even if she was a bit crazy. Her personality was warm and friendly. It was no wonder Mama liked her. He couldn¡¯t imagine how Mom would react if he had to end this fake rtionship. She would definitely be furious.


    The image of Riley lifting a pan and pointing it at him sent shivers down Max¡¯s spine. He shuddered with horror, especially since he was now in the parking lot. The dimly lit surroundings heightened the horror vibe surrounding Max.


    However, speaking of ending our fake rtionship, Vonda seemed to take it lightly, didn¡¯t she? Bringing up Andrew again andparing me to him. Does she really think of me as-


    ¡°Oh my God! Are you crazy?!¡±


    One shout interrupted Max¡¯s thought. He stopped abruptly in the middle of his path to the car. The voice of a girl caught his attention, and his alert signal rose.


    ¡°You¡¯re the crazy one! Okay, we¡¯re breaking up. But not like this. You¡¯re acting like a little kid.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me? A little kid? Whose little kid? Okay, let¡¯s assume I¡¯m a little kid. So, you, as the big kid, are still talking about car installments with a little kid? Moreover, you even want to use my car?¡±


    ¡°Damn!¡±


    ¡°Hey! Watch your attitude! I¡¯m your boss, you little dick!¡±


    ¡°You-¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Max saw it clearly. Vonda covered her face with both hands, ignoring Andrew¡¯s other hand holding her wrist tightly, causing her to scream in pain.


    Andrew took a step back, raising his other hand.


    ¡°Miss Scott, I¡¯ve been looking for you everywhere, and it turns out you¡¯re here.¡±


    Both Vonda and Andrew were startled by the voice. The voice that made Andrew quickly let go of Vonda¡¯s hand. They both turned to the source of the sound.


    A frightening face approached them. Max¡¯s eyes locked with Andrew¡¯s for a few seconds before shifting to Vonda. Unintentionally, it made both Vonda and Andrew exim the boy¡¯s name.


    ¡°Sir.¡±


    *

 Out of Mind 1

    A few minutes after Max left the room, Vonda also wanted to leave immediately and go home. However, an iing email changed her mind. She turned on theputer again and checked the email. Just then, another message arrived on her phone. From the guy Vonda really wanted to avoid.


    Andrew:


    Reply to my message, Von.


    Don¡¯t run away like this.


    Vonda rolled her eyeszily. She stashed her phone into her work bag. She muttered as she turned off theputer.


    ¡°Why should I even reply to his message? Like he¡¯s so important. And who¡¯s even running away? Ugh! What a brainless guy.¡±


    Vonda let out two long sighs. She got up and grabbed her bag-making sure nothing was left behind, especially her car keys. Not because of anything else, but there was a time when Vonda reached the parking lot and realized her car keys were left in the room. As a result, she had to go back to the room just for that small item.


    A momentter, Vonda slung her bag over her left shoulder and left the table. She decided to head home right away, instead of following her original n to window shop at the nearest mall.


    On the way to the parking lot, Vonda noticed that the office was starting to empty out. It was not unusual considering it was a Friday. People tended to leave early as the weekend approached.


    Arriving at the office parking lot, Vonda found only a few vehicles. She did not spot any other employees there either.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Security?


    Vonda nced at the security post in the parking lot. It was empty. Maybe the guard was in the restroom or somewhere else. The atmosphere was indeed quiet.


    While her feet continued to carry her toward the ck car parked on the other side, Vonda reached into her work bag. Her hand moved restlessly to find the car keys inside. However, at that moment, a voice startled her.


    ¡°Vonda!¡±


    Without looking, Vonda could guess who it was that called her like that. Her hackles rose in unison. It was just like the automatic fear that surfaced when there¡¯s a sound of a ghost¡¯sughter.


    It was a natural instinct that spontaneously emerged. Making Vonda shiver and causing the car keys she had just retrieved to fall to the parking lot floor.


    Vonda had initially intended to grab her car keys and leave immediately. Not because she was afraid, but because she wanted to avoid trouble while she could. Although fundamentally, there was someone who intended to involve her in trouble.


    The guy was tall and swiftly positioned himself right in front of Vonda. He deftly forced her to stop in her tracks.


    Vonda snorted. Looking at the guy with the loosely tied tie who was actually handsome.


    Yeah. Just like the image of a bad boy that teenage girls who hadn¡¯t yet received their ID cards adored.


    ¡°Andrew.¡±


    Vonda could feel her tongue quiver slightly as she pronounced the guy¡¯s name. It felt¡­ wrong. Honestly, she did not want to say his name unless she was forced to. Like how her tongue suddenly itched because of it.


    Andrew stood before Vonda with a slightly disheveled appearance. His hair looked tousled, as did the shirt he was wearing. More than that, a bead of sweat was seen tracing down the side of his face.


    ¡°We need to talk, Von,¡± Andrew said then. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t keep avoiding me like this.¡±


    For a moment, Vonda just stared at Andrew with his words. Vonda¡¯s brain seemed to need more time than usual to digest the meaning and purpose of his recent words.


    ¡°Ah. Pardon?¡± Vonda winced as she finally decided to speak. ¡°I¡¯m avoiding you?¡±


    ¡°Is it true, right? The proof is that you didn¡¯t reply to my message,¡± Andrew taunted with a snort. ¡°And when you did reply, it was like you were trying to y games with me.¡±


    Wait.


    Vonda¡¯s forehead creased.


    When did I try to y games with him?


    A momentter, Vonda¡¯s memory immediately conjured up the messages Max had sent to Andrew. This caused her to let out a long breath. Half annoyed. Well, although Vonda was not entirely sure who she was annoyed with.


    ¡°Are you really this upset just because we broke up?¡±


    What?!


    Andrew¡¯s confident face made Vonda feel queasy. Disgusting to be seen by someone who suddenly became hungry in thete afternoon. And she needed a few seconds topose herself, rather than vomiting right there.


    ¡°Sorry, sorry to say. Am I upset?¡± Vonda snorted and winced. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. Because no matter how you look at it, actually, I¡¯m lucky to know what you¡¯re really like.¡± Vonda blinked repeatedly in a mocking manner, rubbing her temple with her fingertip. ¡°No hard feelings, okay? It¡¯s just¡­ turns out you¡¯re small. Not what I¡¯ve imagined all this time.¡±


    Oh, for everything. No man would ever remain calm after receiving a derogatoryment questioning his manhood. Whether it¡¯s true or not, it touches an ego. The most patient person can suddenly be the angriest when provoked in this way. Especially if they¡¯re not naturally patient. So, Vonda should not have been surprised when she received Andrew¡¯s reaction to her words.


    Andrew stepped forward. Not giving Vonda a chance to retreat, he quickly grabbed her wrist. He held it so tightly that it elicited a whimper.


    ¡°Oh, you think it¡¯s small?¡± Andrew asked, grinning. ¡°Really?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face immediately went pale. She felt ufortable with Andrew¡¯s expression when he asked her that. She did not know why she suddenly felt scared at that moment.


    ¡°W-what are you doing?¡±


    Vonda shuddered in horror as a wide grin spread across Andrew¡¯s face. He tried to keep Vonda¡¯s hand in one hand while his other hand went into his pants pocket. He pulled out the car keys, which were none other than Vonda¡¯s car keys.


    ¡°What am I doing?¡± Andrew repeated Vonda¡¯s question with a smirk. ¡°I want to show you. Is it really small, or is it just your mistaken perception?¡±


    *

 Out of Mind 2

    Andrew¡¯s unflinching gaze made Vonda freeze. In an instant, she felt frightened. Logically, Vonda¡¯s strength would not be able to match Andrew¡¯s.


    Vonda swallowed her saliva. ¡°Hey, let go of my hand.¡±


    ¡°No way. I want to show you whether you¡¯re mistaken.¡± Andrew advanced his face. ¡°Where do you want it? At my ce or yours? Even at a hotel.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face immediately turned deep red. Inadvertently, she forgot about her fear and instead snapped back.


    ¡°Oh my god! Are you insane?!¡±


    Andrew was taken aback. He did not expect that when fear had cornered Vonda, it would suddenly turn into anger that challenged him. Vonda snapped as if she had no fear of anything in the world.


    ¡°You¡¯re the crazy one! Okay, we¡¯re broken up. But not like this. You¡¯re acting like such a little kid.¡±


    Vonda snorted with a mocking rhythm. This time it was due to a ticklish feeling that suddenly ran through her stomach.


    ¡°Excuse me? A little kid?¡± Vonda chuckled briefly. ¡°Who¡¯s the little kid here?¡± she retorted, ncing at the car keys in Andrew¡¯s hand. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s say I¡¯m a little kid. So, the big guy here is still talking about car loans with a little kid? And beyond that, you¡¯re still want to use my car?¡±


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Andrew cursed, not taking kindly to Vonda¡¯s mockery.


    And Vonda was no different. She could not ept being cursed at by Andrew right in front of her face. She stared wide-eyed.


    ¡°Hey! Watch your manners, will you? I¡¯m your superior, you small-dicked loser!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s insult sessfully fueled Andrew¡¯s anger. His chest heated up.


    Andrew raised his hand, extending all five fingers. He let the car keys in his grip fall while he swung hisrge palm. He directed it toward Vonda¡¯s cheek.


    Vonda stared. She screamed. Then reflexively covered her face with both hands.


    ¡°You-¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Behind her hands, Vonda bit her lower lip. Prepared and anticipating the impact of a hand on her face. However, as she braced herself for all the possible pain, suddenly, a heavy sound reverberated and echoed through the parking lot.


    ¡°Ms. Scott. I¡¯ve been looking everywhere, and it turns out you¡¯re here.¡±


    The exmation made Vonda jump. Spontaneously, she lowered her hands from her face.


    Just like Vonda, Andrew also instinctively released his grip on her hand. Along with his hand that had nearlynded on Vonda¡¯s face.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Both looked toward the source of the voice. A guy who appeared red-faced and with a sharp gaze was walking toward them.


    Andrew held his breath. His forehead slightly furrowed when he realized Max was in front of him in no time.


    Max maintained an unblinking stare at Andrew. And although their department did not organize a wee party for Max as the new head-understandable considering Max was just an interim leader while the HR department selected a permanent one-did not mean Andrew did not know who the guy was.


    As a result, it was not strange that in the next moment, Andrew hissed Max¡¯s name. And so did Vonda.


    ¡°Mr. Hernandez.¡±


    Max then turned to Vonda, causing her to freeze. Perhaps it was due to Max¡¯s face taking on a hard expression or because of his loud call earlier.


    He¡¯s been looking everywhere for me? What¡¯s going on?


    Apparently, it was not difficult for Max to read Vonda¡¯s thoughts. He exined, ¡°My car broke down. So, give me a ride home now.¡±


    Vonda blinked in confusion. ¡°Really?¡±


    If his car broke down, he could just order a taxi, right? Why ask to be driven? Just because I know his address?


    Max snorted. Without waiting for Vonda¡¯s response, he surprised everyone by stooping down and picking up the car keys that had fallen.


    Andrew extended his hand. He wanted to speak and take one of the car keys, but Max spoke up again.


    ¡°These are your car keys, right?¡±


    Vonda blinked again. She briefly nced at Andrew who looked dumbfounded. However, Vonda was smart enough to answer.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Hernandez. I don¡¯t know how both sets of my car keys ended up with me.¡±


    Max nodded. He handed the main key to Vonda while keeping the other one.


    ¡°Let me drive,¡± Max said, holding the key up in front of Vonda.


    Vonda nced at Andrew, who was tightly clenching his mouth with a deeply frustrated expression. It was really difficult for her to hold back herughter and amusement. Especially when she saw Max slightly turn his body to face Andrew.


    ¡°Do you two have any more business here?¡± Max asked. ¡°Because if not, I need Ms. Scott to take me to the project site first before going to my apartment. It¡¯s sort of like a guide. Because I¡¯m not too familiar with the streets in Ashford City yet.¡±


    Even if Andrew did have more things to say to Vonda, he seemed to have to give in. Especially since Vonda also said, ¡°There¡¯s nothing, Sir. I don¡¯t even have any business with him.¡±


    Damn it! Andrew could not say anything now. His conditions were very unfavorable.


    Max turned to Vonda. ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Sir,¡± Vonda said with a big smile. ¡°Well then¡­ please, Sir. Better if we go now before it gets dark.¡±


    Max nodded. Without feeling the need to bid Andrew farewell, he walked away. Vonda hurriedly followed suit, though her ears still caught some curses from behind.


    Vonda opened the door and sat in the passenger seat while Max took the driver¡¯s seat. However, he did not immediately start driving. It was as if he was waiting for Andrew to leave the parking lot first. And just as Vonda was about to inquire about why Max had not started the car yet, he suddenly turned toward her. His words took her by surprise.


    ¡°Seriously?¡± Max asked with an incredulous snort. ¡°You like guys who are broke, shameless and have no manners?¡±


    In shock, Vonda could only gape at Max due to his unexpected question.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    *

 Behind The Word

    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Ignoring Vonda¡¯s bewildered expression, Max became even more animated. As evidence, Max did not just turn his gaze to Vonda this time. He even turned his seat around. It was almost as if he suddenly sat cross-legged behind the steering wheel.


    ¡°Seriously! I just can¡¯t wrap my head around how you can date a guy like that. No matter where you look, he¡¯s not attractive in the slightest. Looks? No. Money? No. Attitude? No. So tell me, apart from your expired brain, what¡¯s the reason you could possibly be dating him? Because the only reason I can think of for you to date him¡­ is because your brain is malfunctioning.¡±


    Max¡¯s lengthy words were met with only two blinking eyes from Vonda. Understandable considering that when Vonda tried to speak, Max started berating her again with his rants.


    ¡°I guess I can understand that you sometimes have problems with your brain.¡±


    Vonda truly found herself unable to say anything anymore. Only her eyes widened in response to each word Max threw at her.


    ¡°But at least¡­ try buying a fish. They say Japanese people are smart because they eat a lot of fish. Who knows, maybe the fish meat could make you a bit smarter.¡±


    ¡°H-hold on a moment.¡± Vonda reached out her hand, trying to interrupt Max. ¡°Why are you suddenly ranting incoherently like this?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes squinted wide. He leaned his face towards Vonda, causing her to shrink back. It was as if he felt guilty, though he did not know why.


    ¡°I¡¯m ranting incoherently?¡±


    Max¡¯s index finger moved and tapped Vonda¡¯s forehead, making her gasp in disbelief.


    ¡°Your brain is incoherent. How can you even date a guy like that? Like Oceana has run out of quality guys. Even if it¡¯scking, just save your sry. Take a short vacation and look for a potential partner abroad.¡±


    Vonda smirked while rubbing her forehead that Max had just tapped. She said, ¡°Forget about you, Max. I often think the same way.¡±


    ¡°See? Regardless of your higher position in the office than his, it¡¯s still the same. From his mentality and attitude, he doesn¡¯t show even the slightest sign of being a reliable household leader. You know, the first thing is his attitude as a guy. If his mental state is as weak as a cracker, he won¡¯t be able to transform into someone strong.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡±


    ¡°Many office-working women have husbands who don¡¯t work in offices. Sometimes their sry is even lower than their wives¡¯, but¡­ their households still run smoothly. Why? It¡¯s because of the husband¡¯s good mentality. You know? No matter how much a woman earns, she can¡¯t match the charisma of a responsible man. So, if a guy doesn¡¯t have this mentality, he¡¯s truly worthless. He¡¯s called a potential household leader. As if your head isn¡¯t right already, you¡¯re looking for a potential household leader who¡¯s even more off.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Max. Yes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m really amazed. Even though your brain might be a bit off, at least you could find a guy better than Andrew. He¡¯s not good in any way.¡±


    Vonda pursed her lips and quickly replied, ¡°Actually, I¡¯m not really into Andrew like that. Um¡­ I did have my heart broken when we broke up. Besides, who wouldn¡¯t be shocked when they break up in a live stream, but¡­¡±


    Max¡¯s forehead creased. ¡°But?¡±


    ¡°Well, you see? His family is really nice. So sometimes, I think I might regret letting him go.¡±


    ¡°Ugh!¡±


    For some reason, Vonda suddenly burst intoughter at Max¡¯s spontaneous mocking of herself.


    ¡°Hahaha! His younger brother is nice, his older brother is nice, and his parents are nice too. I thought, when else can you get such a good family?¡±


    Max snorted. ¡°Well, finding a partner should also involve looking at their family. But if the guy has problems to the level of godly proportion like this? You really shouldn¡¯t hold onto him. Don¡¯t worry. There are plenty of good guys with good families out there. Just give to charity more, so that God will take pity on you. God wouldn¡¯t let a guy with no brains for a girl who¡¯s already brainless. God wouldn¡¯t want to see the offspring of humanity heading towards destruction.¡±


    ¡°You, really.¡±


    Vonda exchanged herughter for an amused frown. Somehow, despite Max¡¯s incessant scolding about Andrew, she found it funny.


    ¡°Like you¡¯re annoyed. I¡¯m already pretty chill.¡±


    If Vonda paid attention, Max¡¯s face actually looked quite annoyed at that moment. Whether Max was aware of it or not, he muttered as if he were venting all his frustration. It was as if he were the one in Vonda¡¯s position.


    ¡°I¡¯m not saying this for no reason, but seriously! I hate girls who are smart in their studies but dumb about guys. So irritating. It¡¯s just logical.¡± Max inhaled once and then exhaled rapidly. ¡°Is it even okay for kids and grandchildren to be raised by a father like him?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda could not help butugh out loud again due to Max¡¯sints. However, she realized that what Max said was true.


    ¡°Yes, Max. Yes. I know I¡¯m really dumb to the point of dating that guy. Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t even think about getting back with him.¡±


    ¡°No! No! No! It¡¯s not about not thinking about getting back with him, but you should get a local amnesia instead.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡± Vonda hugged her stomach, feeling even more tickled. ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll get a local amnesia for Andrew. Oops!¡± Vonda covered her mouth and her expression changed as if she were confused. ¡°Who¡¯s Andrew again? Oh! Who were we talking about?¡±


    Max instantly grinned. His hand reached out andnded on Vonda¡¯s head. He patted it repeatedly while saying, ¡°Good girl. Don¡¯t try to find a trashy guy like that again, okay?¡±


    Vonda nodded and quickly replied, ¡°I¡¯m ready toply!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s response made Max smile, he let out a long breath and felt relieved. For a moment, he just stared at Vonda whose eyes seemed to disappear as she smiled so broadly.


    A momentter, Max said, ¡°I think the guy is gone now.¡±


    Vonda looked in the direction of Max¡¯s gaze. To the point where Andrew disappeared. There seemed to be no chance that the guy would reappear. Neither his image nor himself.


    ¡°Why?¡± Vonda asked as she saw Max getting up from his seat, not showing any signs that he was about to start driving. ¡°Where are you going?¡± she asked as she saw Max reach out towards the door handle, as if he was about to pull the key lever there.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m going back, of course.¡±


    Vonda was confused. ¡°Huh? Weren¡¯t you supposed to ride with me?¡±


    ¡°Ugh! Did you really think my car was actually broken down?¡± Max asked teasingly. ¡°Even if it was, couldn¡¯t I just order a taxi?¡±


    Vonda blinked her eyes.


    That¡¯s exactly what I was thinking earlier.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m going back. Drive safely.¡±


    Vonda had not had a chance to say anything when Max finally left. He walked casually to his own car.


    Considering waiting for a moment, Vonda found Max signaling her. Asking her to go first, and that¡¯s what Vonda did.


    Vonda changed seats and quickly started the car¡¯s engine. She drove off after honking a farewell to Max.


    *


    On a calm Saturday night, Vonda was enjoying a peaceful restful time in her apartment. Armed with a bowl of vani-vored corn puffs and her favorite movie that she had watched multiple times, Vonda prepared to indulge her mind.


    The movie of choice for Vonda that night was a romanticedy from 2011. Starring Anna Faris and Chris Evans, the movie was titled ¡°What¡¯s Your Number.¡±


    ¡°Humming hum hum. I¡¯m definitely going to watch it over and over until I¡¯m satisfied. Because, you know, when else can I see Captain America in just his underwear?¡±


    Vonda giggled with amusement as that thought flickered in her mind. Adjusting her position in front of the television, she began to enjoy the film.


    Starting from the scene where the character Ally woke up in the morning and sneaked out of bed while her bedmate was still asleep. Hurriedly fixing her appearance, making herself look a bit more presentable for the assumption: Wow! You still look so pretty even when you¡¯ve just woken up.


    But in reality, the sleep crust and drool had been cleaned off. Reced by a swipe of mascara and the scent of toothpaste.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Vondaughed. She was reminded of something that was theplete opposite of the scene in the movie. Something involving a personal experience, it seemed.


    ¡°There was a time like that, you know. Instead of getting all dressed up to greet the guy who¡¯s about to wake up, she actually left before the guy woke up. Hahaha!¡±


    Whileughing, Vonda then turned to her phone that had beeped. She wiped her hand briefly with a tissue, then reached for the device.


    ¡°Max?¡± Vonda grinned. ¡°I just remembered, oh, his message just came in.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s mouth was still chewing when she opened the message. She read it immediately.


    Max:


    Do you have ns tomorrow?


    ¡°Ugh.¡± Vonda made a small noise as she read the message. ¡°No greetings or anything? So straight to the point.¡±


    Vonda:


    I don¡¯t think I have any ns. Why?


    Vonda put her phone aside for a moment. She looked back at the movie. Exactly when the character Collin appeared with a red apple in his hand. It made Vonda turn her head around, trying to find an impossible angle to see.


    ¡°Oh no! Howe themppost is right there, perfectly blocking the view of Chris Evans¡¯ ultimate weapon? Now I can¡¯t see it.¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Right at that moment, a message from Max popped up again.


    Max:


    Join me tomorrow. I¡¯ll pick you up at ten. Don¡¯t oversleep just because it¡¯s Sunday.


    For a moment, Vonda just stared. Ignoring the movie that kept ying, she focused on Max¡¯s message.


    ¡°Huh? Join you tomorrow? Don¡¯t oversleep?¡±


    Vonda blinked her eyes. Worried that her eyesight might suddenly be faulty. Maybe she had misread it, but¡­


    ¡°What¡¯s up with this guy? He contacts me out of the blue and it¡¯s so unclear like this?¡±


    Vonda:


    What do you mean? Join you where?


    It did not take long for Max¡¯s reply toe in.


    Max:


    I want to take you out for a free lunch tomorrow.


    Max¡¯s brief response made Vonda squint her eyes. It did not make her happy, rather the opposite.


    ¡°I¡¯m kind of suspicious. Why does he suddenly want to take me out for a free lunch? Hmm¡­ it¡¯s worth questioning.¡±


    Vonda:


    Free lunch? What do you mean? Where?


    Now Vonda waspletely unfocused on her movie. Nor on the delicious corn puffs. She was more interested in Max¡¯s intentions and purpose.


    Max:


    Oh dear. Rx. You won¡¯te to any harm having a free meal with me. Just be ready tomorrow. I¡¯ll pick you up.


    Vonda¡¯s lower lip curled as she read Max¡¯s response. However, she chose not to argue anymore. Vonda chose to continue watching the movie and enjoying the corn puffs instead of pondering Max¡¯s intentions. So, she replied to Max¡¯s message briefly.


    Vonda:


    Okay.


    A few minutester, a pleasant thought emerged in Vonda¡¯s mind. A smile spread across her face.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a kind of expense-saving, right? Why reject a free meal? It¡¯s called being frugal even before marriage.¡±


    *

 Right Choice 1

    Sunday morning, Vonda had already prepared herself with her casual look. She stood in front of the mirror, turned around and looked at herself from different angles. Hmmm¡­ was it to meticulously observe her appearance?


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t mean I want to look fancy in front of him.¡±


    Vonda brushed the jeans that hugged her lower body, right at her butt.


    ¡°Just so it¡¯s not embarrassingly in.¡±


    Vonda then turned her attention to her shoulder-length wavy hair. She deliberately let it down without any hairpins. It shimmered down her back,plementing the softly patterned short-sleeved shirt she was wearing.


    She also wore a pair of block heeled shoes, five inches high. The strap details covering the back of her feet gave her a rxed yet neat look.


    Vonda had not forgotten to carry a small bag with her wallet and cell phone. Holding it in her left hand, she checked her appearance once more. Onest look to make sure nothing was out of ce.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve enjoyed a free meal. So, I¡¯m pretty excited about this. Oh!¡±


    Vonda blinked her eyes. She remembered something.


    ¡°I think it was justst Sunday that Max¡¯s mom treated me, and now it¡¯s her son who¡¯s inviting me to a free meal.¡±


    Vonda shook her head with a funny expression.


    ¡°I wonder if next Sunday it will be Max¡¯s dad inviting me to a free meal.¡±


    The ringing of the bell pushed all these amusing thoughts out of Vonda¡¯s head. She stepped out of the room.


    ncing through the small hole in the door, Vonda saw Max standing there. She opened the door.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Max, who had been ncing everywhere-down the hallway, to other unit doors, even to the moving elevator-suddenly turned when he heard his name called by Vonda.


    Smiling, Vonda perhaps enjoyed Max¡¯s casual appearance. It was the first time she had seen Max in a short-sleeved shirt and jeans.


    Wait. Vonda furrowed her brow.


    Why do we both look so coordinated in these clothes?


    Max seemed to have the same thought. He realized that this was the first time he had seen Vonda outside of her crazy situation the other day and her work environment. Vonda¡¯s rxed demeanor was very different than usual. Her hair, usually neatly pulled back, now flowed sweetly.


    ¡°Ahem!¡± Vonda cleared her throat. ¡°Do you want toe in first or just go out?¡±


    Max blinked once. ¡°Let¡¯s just go. That way we can make it in time for lunch.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡±


    They drove Max¡¯s car through the busy streets. They talked all the way. They discussed light topics, like¡­


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to still be wearing jeans.¡±


    Vonda¡¯sment made Max look tired, especially his expression, which immediately turnedzy towards the girl.


    ¡°You think I¡¯m too old to wear jeans?¡±


    Vonda chuckled. ¡°Seems like it. How old are you anyway?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m only thirty-one,¡± Max replied with a grin. ¡°Still young.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Yeah, yeah. But¡­ tell me. Why haven¡¯t you gotten married yet? You meet all the criteria for marriage, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Holding the wheel with one hand, the other resting casually on her thigh, Max decided to speak. ¡°If you have your own answer to that question, I¡¯ll give you mine.¡±


    Once again Vonda replied yfully. ¡°Good one, Max.¡±


    Max smiled broadly. He felt satisfied that he had managed to shut Vonda¡¯s question down without having to bother with an exnation.


    ¡°Besides, we¡¯re not married, so let¡¯s not bother each other, shall we?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not harassment, it¡¯s just curiosity,¡± Vonda replied with a grin. ¡°But you know, I think it would be to my advantage if you weren¡¯t married yet.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Max asked with a slightly furrowed brow.


    ¡°Because if you were already married, the one you¡¯d be inviting to free meals would be your wife, not me. Hehehe!¡±


    Whether he liked it or not, Max burst outughing spontaneously when he heard Vonda¡¯s answer. ¡°So, your thoughts are limited to meals?¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s free food¡­ who would say no? Oh, but where are you taking me for a free meal?¡±


    Max slowed the car down when he saw the light turn red. Nonchntly, looking rxed, he replied.


    ¡°Just know you¡¯re going to be happy today. I guarantee it.¡±


    ¡°Happy?¡± Vonda immediately rubbed her neck with one hand, feeling the fine hairs there stand in unison at Max¡¯s words. ¡°I don¡¯t know why, but it feels the opposite, I suddenly have goose bumps.¡±


    Max¡¯sughter did not calm Vonda¡¯s shivers, it seemed to intensify them.


    ¡°Seriously. Where are we eating?¡±


    Max turned his face away. He looked at Vonda and smiled as he replied. ¡°I¡¯m taking you to my cousin¡¯s house.¡±


    ¡°Cousin?¡±


    It seemed as if Vonda needed some time to digest Max¡¯s words. Even though her goose bumps intensified as a form of anticipation, she still asked.


    ¡°Which cousin?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Yeah, my cousin who¡¯s your boss at the office. I don¡¯t have many cousins,¡± Max replied. Then he blinked. ¡°Actually, I have quite a few. Hahaha!¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    While Maxughed, Vonda felt the opposite. The girl was horrified and even scared Max with her reaction.


    ¡°Huh?! You want to take me to Mr. Hernandez¡¯ house? I-I mean Lucas Hernandez?¡±


    Max found Vonda¡¯s reaction beyond his expectations. Her face looked panicked and frightened. But for some reason, Max found himselfughing.


    ¡°Huh? Hahaha! Why are you acting so scared?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened and she instinctively pped Max¡¯s free hand. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me we were going to Mr. Lucas¡¯ house for a free meal?¡±


    ¡°I did mention it,¡± Max replied.


    ¡°Yeah, but¡­ you¡¯re telling me this at thest minute. Oh, my goodness.¡±


    ¡°Well, is there something wrong with inviting you to Lucas¡¯ house for a free meal?¡±


    This time Vonda cupped her cheeks with both hands. ¡°How can I eat with Mr. Lucas Hernandez there?¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Max nodded his head, and a thought shed through his mind, causing him to swallow his saliva before he asked. ¡°Are you afraid you¡¯ll be too enchanted with him? To the point where you can¡¯t even chew properly?¡±


    *

 Right Choice 2

    ¡°Huh?¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes widened, then she instinctively pped Max again. ¡°I can¡¯t chew properly not because I¡¯m enchanted, but because I¡¯m scared! How can I eat when my diningpanion has a scary face like him?¡±


    The ufortable thud that briefly echoed in Max¡¯s chest instantly turned to uproariousughter.


    ¡°I know he is handsome. Everyone knows he¡¯s handsome, and frankly, I adore his handsome face. But¡­ that doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m going to be enchanted by him. It doesn¡¯t mean I want to sit at the same table with him. Even his look is sharper than chef¡¯s meat cleaver. How can I eat when I might be the first to be sliced?¡±


    Max tapped the steering wheel yfully, unable to contain the tickling in his stomach. Ignoring Vonda¡¯s panicked face, he burst outughing again.


    ¡°That much?¡±


    ¡°That much?¡± Vonda blinked. ¡°Don¡¯t you see the way he looks at people? It¡¯s like there¡¯s aser that can dissect a living human body! Ugh!¡± She shuddered in horror. ¡°You¡¯re really heartless, inviting me to his house for dinner.¡±


    ¡°Hey-hey!¡± Max¡¯s index finger pointed at her. ¡°You could lose your job soon if I tell him everything you¡¯ve just said, Von. Do you have enough savings to get you through that?¡±


    ¡°You.¡±


    Max¡¯sughter, which had begun to die down, erupted again. He seemed so pleased to see Vonda¡¯s panicked expression.


    ¡°Besides¡­ Lucas isn¡¯t that scary.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened again, prompting Max to hastily interject, ¡°Actually, he¡¯s a little intimidating, to be honest.¡±


    ¡°Not just intimidating. I¡¯ve never even seen him smile. Let aloneugh, he doesn¡¯t even smile.¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh.¡±


    Max only managed to clear his throat quietly as Vonda immediately started talking again. Just as the traffic light changed and Max elerated the car.


    ¡°I hope I don¡¯t get attacked by him during lunch.¡±


    After that, Max could only chuckle. Finding it amusing to see Vonda¡¯s frightened face, and considering the fact she had mentioned, Max was reminded of something he had overlooked.


    Having initially thought that Vonda¡¯s fear was just an exaggerated attitude, Max furrowed his brow. He realized his mistake.


    When they both arrived at the Lucas residence, which was somewhat secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city, Vonda scooted a bit behind Max, trying to hide.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be attacked at the door, Max.¡±


    Vonda whispered to Max as he pressed the doorbell. Based on the information from the security guard, the couple was inside the house.


    ¡°By the way, why are youing to his house all of a sudden, Max? And why did you bring me along again?¡±


    After pressing the doorbell again, Max looked over his shoulder at Vonda, who tilted her head to see his face.


    ¡°Well, the thing is, I forgot to congratte him on his wedding yesterday. So, um¡­ instead ofing alone, I thought I¡¯d bring you along,¡± Max replied with a hint of nervousness.


    In Max¡¯s mind, he recited mantras to make sure Vonda did not suspect that his reason for inviting her was clearly because of their fake rtionship. He was worried that this would make Vonda even more ufortable.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°What? It¡¯s been two weeks, Max. That¡¯s so outdated.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°And then? You came to congratte her, but you didn¡¯t bring a present?¡±


    Max scratched his head. ¡°Just like you said. It¡¯s outdated. Even if I brought a honeymoon package, it doesn¡¯t seem ethical. Their situation isn¡¯t supportive, is it?¡±


    ¡°You should have bought lingerie.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure I¡¯d rather see a girl wearing lingerie than buy lingerie myself.¡±


    Vondaughed, but a momentter the sound died away as they heard the door open. A woman¡¯s face appeared from behind it, smiling to greet their arrival. When their eyes met, she greeted them.


    ¡°Miss Scott.¡±


    Vonda smiled in return. ¡°Velia.¡± She blinked and shook her head briefly. ¡°I mean, Mrs. CEO.¡±


    Max burst outughing.


    *


    Vonda¡¯s body felt incredibly stiff. She brushed off her mistake in greeting her superior¡¯s wife-Velia, who used to be her subordinate. Now she felt truly dizzy.


    Vonda was in a situation that made herpletely ufortable. Unfortunately, she might have been the only one who felt that way.


    Max, sitting next to Vonda, obviously did not feel the same way. Look at him. He seemed so rxed, enjoying every bite as he chimed in on the conversation at the dinner table.


    ¡°I never imagined that the girl you¡¯re dating now is actually my employee, Max.¡±


    Vonda nearly choked when she heard Lucas¡¯ deep voice allude to her. Not out of arrogance, but really, right? Especially with those three pairs of eyes fixed on her. It was hard for Vonda to even chew.


    Max looked at Vonda and looked ufortable to speak. ¡°Well¡­ yes.¡±


    ¡°If I may add, it seems serious this time. Auntie talks about it a lot.¡±


    Max cursed in his heart.


    What else did Mom talk about?


    Vonda¡¯s face turned incredibly red. She really could not say anything.


    ¡°Luc.¡±


    The soft voice sounded like a drop of water in the desert to Vonda. Like a ray of hope, her savior from this embarrassing subject.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough teasing. Can¡¯t you see their faces are all flushed?¡±


    Although Velia probably did not need to be so blunt.


    ¡°Ah.¡± Lucas studied their faces. Then heughed. ¡°You¡¯re right, Ve. Their faces do look as red as the spicy shrimp you cooked.¡±


    Huh?Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Vonda stared, unblinking, even though the subject had changed. Somehow her eyes were hypnotized by the scene in front of her.


    Velia served the spicy shrimp Lucas had mentioned on his te. Lucas thanked her with a smile. At first nce, it was a routine interaction. But for some reason, Vonda got a different impression. Even in simple conversation, the couple seemed full of affection.


    In reality, this lunch was not only filling Vonda¡¯s stomach. Max noticed it too. As the car carried them back to the street, he asked Vonda.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Vonda did not turn her head. Her eyes remained fixed on the road as she answered his question.


    ¡°Is it true what they say? Finding the right person will make us happy.¡±


    *

 Unconsciously

    ¡°Huh? Where are we going?¡±


    Vonda asked Max when she realized that the steering wheel in his hands led them to a different destination. Instead of towards her apartement, as she had assumed. So, it¡¯s only natural that Vonda looked at the guy with confusion now that he seemed strangely calm.


    Without turning his head, Max looked straight ahead at the road. He nced briefly at the sun as it began to set over them, making the shadows of objects appear to be longer than they actually were. Just as the clock was about to strike three in the afternoon.


    ¡°Um¡­ we¡¯ll grab a bite to eat before I take you back.¡±


    ¡°Eat?¡± Vonda asked reflexively, perhaps unsure of what her ears were hearing. ¡°Another free meal? Where? How many free meal invitations do you have today?¡±


    Maxughed at Vonda¡¯s questions. ¡°This time it won¡¯t be a free meal, you¡¯ll have to pay.¡± For now, he turned to her. ¡°Where would you like to eat?¡±


    A line of confusion formed on Vonda¡¯s forehead. She was unsure of the meaning behind Max¡¯s words.


    ¡°Are you inviting me to dinner again, or what do you mean? I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ you could say that.¡± Max looked confused as he tried to exin his intention. ¡°Just think of it as me wanting to take you out to dinner. Well, how should I put it? I saw that you didn¡¯t seem to be very happy with your meal at Lucas¡¯ earlier. Hahaha! So, I kind of feel sorry for you. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll end up drooling on the way back.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hand lifted andnded a half-hearted punch on Max¡¯s arm. She reflexively could not believe what the guy was saying to her. As if Vonda was someone who had not eaten enough.


    ¡°Well, I feel kind of guilty,¡± Max continued. ¡°I can¡¯t just drop you off on an empty stomach. I¡¯m a considerate guy.¡±


    But no matter how Max expressed his intentions and goals, it inevitably caused Vonda to clutch her stomach.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I barely ate earlier, and this situation forced me to use my reserve energy. Ugh! Now I feel weak. What if I can¡¯t walkter? Will I have to crawl?¡±


    Max found this amusing. Vonda¡¯s pouty expression and grimacing lips really made his stomach tingle. Though her expression might seem exaggerated, Max did not doubt its authenticity. A girl with a personality like Vonda¡¯s would be terrified to face Lucas directly. And Max wondered. Why could someone as gentle as Velia endure Lucas¡¯ terrifying face?


    ¡°So¡­¡± Max took a breath before continuing. ¡°Where do you want to eat? Is there any food you would like to have right now?¡±


    For a moment Vonda was silent. Although her eyes remained fixed on the road ahead, Max knew that her mind was scrolling through the names of restaurants or other ces to eat. She was considering what kind of food she wanted to enjoy that afternoon.


    ¡°Do you know DuckTrend Bistro?¡±


    Two seconds of silence from Max, then a bright expression spread across his face. A sign that he knew the restaurant Vonda was talking about.


    ¡°Do you want to eat there?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Vonda replied enthusiastically. ¡°The duck seems like a great choice to replenish my drastically depleted energy.¡±


    A broad, amused smile appeared on Max¡¯s face. He nodded. ¡°All right. Let¡¯s have duck!¡±


    ¡°Have duck!¡±


    ¡°Yay!¡±


    ¡°Woo-hoo!¡±


    Cheerful exmations filled the car, eventually culminating inughter from both of them.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    About thirty minutester, Vonda and Max werefortably seated in a traditional pavilion at DuckTrend Bistro. With a pleasant ambience thanks to the presence of lush gardens and trees, they seemed to be enjoying the Sunday afternoon atmosphere.


    ¡°What I like about eating here¡­ try to guess,¡± Vonda said after a waiter had finished taking their orders.


    Max looked like he was adjusting his crossed legs to get morefortable before he guessed.


    ¡°The taste of the spices seeping into the bones?¡±


    Vonda chuckled but shook her head.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s the chili paste,¡± Vonda replied with narrowed eyes and a somewhat serious expression.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Max nodded in understanding. ¡°ssic you, I should have expected that. I¡¯m not surprised at all. You must love spicy sambal.¡±


    Vonda blinked a few times, a little confused by Max¡¯sment.


    ¡°ssic me? What¡¯s that supposed to mean? What is the typical type of a girl like me?¡±


    Max grinned with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes that made Vonda feel the need to be on guard.


    ¡°Do you really want to know what the typical type of girl you are? Sure? No regrets?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay. Since I¡¯m feeling generous, I¡¯ll tell you,¡± Max smiled and took a quick breath before continuing. ¡°You¡¯re the kind of girl who acts before she thinks. Energetic and enthusiastic, especially when ites to matters of style-¡±


    Vonda jumped up in an instant and covered Max¡¯s mouth before he could finish his sentence. Meanwhile, Max burst outughing in Vonda¡¯s embrace.


    Hisughter was not loud and boisterous, but the look in Max¡¯s eyes was more than enough to convey his amusement. Vonda stared at him; her eyes wide.


    ¡°What kind of guy talks about styles in public ces like this?¡± Vonda asked in a low voice, but with great emphasis. ¡°Do youckmon sense?¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Max lowered Vonda¡¯s hand from his mouth and grinned yfully. ¡°Oh my, miss. I was just about to talk about your sleeping arrangements.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened again and Max quickly raised both hands to his chest and continued quickly.


    ¡°I mean your actual sleeping habits. You¡¯ve fallen asleep at my ce twice now, haven¡¯t you? So, I kind of understand your sleeping habits.¡±


    Vonda narrowed her eyes. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh.¡± Max rubbed his chin. ¡°You seem to talk in your sleep.¡±


    A small snort escaped Vonda¡¯s nose as she rememberedst week¡¯s incident. ¡°Yeah, yeah. You mentioned that I was sleep-talking in front of Mom that time.¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh, oh. Actually, you were sleep-talking the first time you stayed with me.¡±


    The way Max¡¯s eyes twinkled, the expression on his face, and the grin on his lips made Vonda instinctively grab a menu and point it at him. Her eyes widened, giving off a threatening air.


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t sleep-talking! If you keep bringing that up, just wait!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Max burst outughing again, the kind ofughter that annoyed Vonda.


    ¡°Why are you suddenly so mischievous today? And why are you bringing up that subject again?¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes narrowed again. ¡°Only an hical person would talk about that in public.¡±


    ¡°Because that¡¯s the only thing on my mind,¡± Max grinned, making Vonda even more irritated.


    ¡°What?! You¡­¡±


    ¡°Just so you don¡¯t keep thinking weird things. I feel like you¡¯re carrying some heavy thoughts from Lucas¡¯ house with you. Maybe it¡¯s just me, but it seems like you¡¯re thinking about your future love life.¡±


    Max¡¯s interruption left Vonda speechless. Especially when she heard the rest of his statement.


    Thinking about my love life? What girl would not feel a pang of envy when she saw disys of affection right in front of her? Well, maybe they did not mean to make others jealous, but still, right? As if that was not enough to make me jealous, here in this duck restaurant, people are being affectionate too.


    But Vonda would not be herself if she allowed Max to enjoy the confirmation of his assumption. She simply put the menu back on the table, tucked her hair behind her ear with one hand, and raised her chin.


    ¡°Acting omniscient!¡±


    Max would not be Max if he didn¡¯t know how to deal with Vonda¡¯s actions. So, he just proudly shed his grin and decided to stop teasing. Fortunately for both, two waiters arrived, apologized for the interruption, and served their orders.


    ¡°Wow! Wow! Wow!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes sparkled as arge portion of duck was ced in front of them, apanied by various side vegetables and, of course, the super spicy chili paste that was the hallmark of the duck restaurant. It was apanied by two lemonades, which looked tempting on this sunny afternoon.


    ¡°Um.¡±


    The aromatic spices soaking into the duck¡¯s flesh made Vonda sigh contentedly. Her moans sounded melodious, as if she was enjoying the most delicious meal in the world. Max grinned between his own bites, savoring each mouthful as well.


    Max¡¯s hand reached out and separated a duck leg, then ced it on Vonda¡¯s te, causing her eyes to light up.


    ¡°You really are a deity, Max.¡±


    Max grinned and ruffled Vonda¡¯s hair with the clean palm of his left hand.


    ¡°Eating a lot, huh?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s smile brightened.


    ¡°Well, searching for a soul mate takes a lot of energy,¡± Max continued yfully.


    ¡°You naughty boy!¡±


    But Vonda did not seem annoyed at all. On the contrary, she looked quite rxed. In fact, she seemed ready to yfully tease Max in return.


    Vonda¡¯s hand reached out and grabbed a wing and breast from Max¡¯s te. She took a bite with a grin on her face, then ced the rest of the piece on her own te.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Vonda dipped the cucumber into the chili paste and chewed. ¡°Remember? I need a lot of energy.¡±


    This time it was Max who answered with an amused expression. ¡°You cheeky!¡±


    *

 What Thought 1

    Vonda waved her hand in thete afternoon sun. It moved a few times, and her gesture was answered by a honk from Max before his car pulled out of the apartment building¡¯s security gate. Slowly fading from view, and after making sure her retinas no longer caught Max¡¯s car, Vonda continued her way.


    ¡°Aww¡­ just finished a date, I think, Miss Scott.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s footsteps, initially headed for the elevator, stopped. She decided to approach Rika Bones, a receptionist in the building who had called out to her earlier.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see me get out of the car earlier?¡± Vonda asked, her eyes narrowing slightly. ¡°That means I didn¡¯t walk, Miss. Why would I be walking around?¡±


    Rikaughed. ¡°Miss Vonda, you¡¯re something else. Always joking around.¡±


    ¡°What kind of joke is that? I was serious,¡± Vonda said with a grin.


    Seemingly not ready to end their quirky conversation, Rika leaned in.


    ¡°By the way¡­ is that your new boyfriend?¡± Rika asked in a curious tone. ¡°You broken up with Andrew?¡±


    ¡°Um.¡± Vonda looked like she was ying with her hair with her fingers and took a short break while she rolled her eyes around. ¡°Andrew and I broke up almost a month ago.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re dating this one now, Miss?¡± Rika nodded, specting. ¡°Oh¡­ the perks of being you. Not long after a breakup you¡¯ve already found someone new. Not like me. Forget about finding someone new, I don¡¯t even have the old one.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! I feel like rubbing your head with a saw, Rika. As if I could get a new boyfriend that fast after a breakup.¡±


    ¡°Eh? That one?¡± Rika lifted a finger and pointed in a random direction. ¡°I have a feeling he drove you home the night before too, right? He just spent the whole day with you, too. Come on, I don¡¯t believe you when you say he¡¯s just a friend. Friends don¡¯t act like that.¡±


    ¡°Ugh! You¡¯re really starting to annoy me.¡±


    However, there was no seriousness in Vonda¡¯s tone as she said this. On the contrary, she seemed quite rxed.


    ¡°Actually, we¡¯re just friends. Um¡­ you could say there¡¯s an important life-or-death matter that makes us spend a lot of time together.¡±


    Rika smiled knowingly with a teasing twinkle in her eyes. ¡°I know. People often say that the person you love the most is your life and deathpanion.¡±


    Vonda¡¯sughter erupted immediately. She shook her head in a natural reaction to Rika¡¯s words. She realized that their strange conversation would continue endlessly, as if the chickens would crow again, if she did not stop it right away.


    ¡°Alright, enough. I¡¯m going back. I need some rest. Tomorrow¡¯s another working day.¡±


    Rika nodded understandingly. ¡°Have a good rest, Miss.¡±


    Once in her unit, Vonda immediately went to the bathroom. Spending all day outside enjoying the weather had left her feeling sticky in some areas. As she turned on the shower, stood under the stream of water, and began to massage her scalp with the fragrant shampoother, Vonda enjoyed her evening shower.


    Still feeling full from herte afternoon meal, Vonda decided to skip dinner from her evening ns. Instead of stuffing her stomach with more carbohydrates, she decided to spend the evening rxing. She opened a magazine in her room, apanied by soft background music.


    ¡°Ah.¡±


    Vonda felt so good. A satisfied stomach, a cheerful mood, well¡­ it all made her feel like she was living in a world without burdens. Until her phone rang, and Vonda happily answered it.


    ¡°Good evening, Mom.¡±


    That was the greeting Vonda immediately offered to Riley on the other end, and a simr reply came back.


    ¡°Good evening, Vonda. I hope I¡¯m not disturbing you? Calling you at this hour?¡±


    Vonda put the magazine down and adjusted her sitting position for morefort. She knew she would need more than five minutes to chat with Riley.


    ¡°Hehehe. You¡¯re not disturbing me, Mom. It¡¯s not thatte. Besides, I¡¯m just chilling in my room. Reading a magazine.¡±


    A small sigh of relief came from Riley. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s good. Have you had dinner, Von? I made some spicy fried chicken. It tastes different from the usual fried chicken you have. I promise. If you want, I can deliver it to you right now. How about it?¡±


    Hmm. A tempting offer.


    ¡°It sounds really delicious, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Really.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡±


    Vonda hesitated, torn between the feeling of fullness in her stomach and the drooling that had begun in her mouth. She was caught between two conflicting options.


    ¡°I¡¯m actually still full, Mom. It¡¯s just¡­¡±


    ¡°Have you eaten yet? Um¡­ did you eat fast? It¡¯s not even seven thirty yet.¡±


    ¡°Actually, I had ate afternoon meal, Mom,¡± Vonda exined. ¡°Max made me eat a whole duck. That¡¯s why my stomach is still pretty full.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡±


    Vonda briefly considered starting a stopwatch to see how many seconds of silence would follow Riley¡¯s realization of that fact. Momentster, however, something made her eyes widen.


    Reflexively, she covered her mouth where the words had slipped out. Her eyes darted from side to side as if she had just realized what she had said.


    ¡°So, you guys went out today, huh?¡±


    Vonda swallowed when she heard Riley¡¯s question. She was embarrassed. Thankfully, Riley had contacted her via a regr phone call instead of the usual video call.


    ¡°Um¡­ I can¡¯t really say that we went out, Mom.¡±


    Riley¡¯s curious question came promptly and did not surprise Vonda.


    ¡°Huh? What do you mean?¡±


    Thinking that Riley would probably find out the truth sooner orter, Vonda decided to answer honestly.


    ¡°Well, you see, Max and I went to his cousin¡¯s newlywed house, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Ah! You mean Lucas¡¯ house?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom. We had lunch there, and when we got back, Max invited me to dinner again.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Vonda bit her lip. It felt natural to reverse the facts when talking to Riley. Max had invited her to dinner again, but only because she could not enjoy lunch at the newlyweds¡¯ house.


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    For some reason, Vonda was sure she could hear happiness in Riley¡¯s voice. She even had a hunch that Riley was smiling broadly on the other end. It was a little strange, but Vonda was convinced that this time her hunch was not wrong.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s okay. Maybe next time I can send you some fried chicken? Before I cook, I¡¯ll make sure the two of you aren¡¯t left alone like this.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. What did she mean?


    ¡°Hehehe. Okay then. You rest, okay? You must be tired. Goodbye, future daughter-inw.¡±


    Vonda blinked, shaking off her surprise, and answered quickly before the call ended.


    ¡°Sure, Mom. Goodbye.¡±


    Staring at her phone with the call history disyed, Vonda suddenly frowned. She tilted her head to the side.


    ¡°Well¡­ actually, a midnight snack of fried chicken isn¡¯t a bad idea.¡±


    Vonda let out a long sigh and chuckled softly.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a stomach.¡±


    *

 What Thought 2

    ¡°I never expected Evan to give me new lingerie. I mean, it¡¯s the middle of the month, out of the blue, he asks me to cosy in a kimono. Maybe it¡¯s because Lili spent the whole day with her grandparents, right? Well, that night she fell asleep really fast. And she didn¡¯t wake up again. So, you can imagine how¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop!¡±


    Vonda raised her hand and looked directly at Sarah.


    ¡°I really can¡¯t imagine, and I don¡¯t want to.¡±


    Sarah, who had been chattering away, grinned mischievously. She held an iced tea straw in one hand and twirled it between her fingers. Her eyes narrowed yfully.


    ¡°Hehehe. Why? Afraid you¡¯d want to imagine it?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°I want to cosy too,¡± Sarah said giggling. ¡°Hehehe.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re such a pervert,¡± Vonda retorted as she continued to eat her lunch. ¡°Your mind is never far from things rted to the bedroom and the bed.¡±


    ¡°Why not? I¡¯m normal. Besides, activities in bed are meant to be enjoyed. And the reality is enjoyable indeed.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened, finding it hard to believe that Sarah was being so open about it.


    ¡°Just because. After all, it¡¯s called marriage, isn¡¯t it? Husbands and wives are supposed to enjoy each other.¡±


    Vonda shook her head, but that didn¡¯t mean she disagreed with Sarah.


    ¡°Let me tell you a secret. Because I have experience,¡± Sarah continued with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, leaning toward Vonda and speaking in a low voice. ¡°When we enjoy the rtionship, we¡¯re actually the ones who benefit.¡±Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Vonda did not want to listen to Sarah¡¯s words, but Sarah¡¯s mysteriously seductive tone made her curious in spite of herself. Her eyes flicked over and found her friend¡¯s meaningful smile.


    ¡°The more we enjoy it, the less likely the man is to let go. In the end, the ATM card moves into our wallets. Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda thought there was something more serious going on than just the ATM card changing ces earlier. Now that she saw Sarahughing, she felt a little queasy. She pushed aside her sds te.


    ¡°Hahaha! That was just a joke, Von. Well¡­ it¡¯s true, though.¡± Sarah shrugged yfully. ¡°But trust me. Having sex with your husband is the happiest thing in the world. I mean, people always say it¡¯s a wife¡¯s duty to serve her husband, but¡­ heh! It¡¯s not really a duty. It¡¯s more about our individual needs. I don¡¯t see it as a duty when Evan implies it. Why not? Because I need to be spoiled by him too. Every husband spoils his wife, it¡¯s not a duty at all. It¡¯s not like duties are that pleasant. Duties, you know! Like those given by teachers and professors. Lots of them. Both may involve staying upte, but the sensations arepletely different.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hand, which had been stirring the peanut sauce for the gado-gado, stopped. She stared wearily at Sarah, who had seemed so enthusiastic about chatting that afternoon.


    ¡°I imagine you just had a long and enjoyable Saturday night, Sar. But¡­ you don¡¯t have to go that far. Don¡¯t you know your chat buddy here isn¡¯t married yet?¡±


    Sarahughed at the desperate look in Vonda¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Forget marriage, I haven¡¯t even seen a potential candidate yet.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ just be patient, Von. Your soul mate wille. If not in this world, then in the afterlife.¡±


    ¡°Jeez!¡± Vonda replied irritably.


    Ignoring Vonda¡¯s annoyed expression, Sarah went back to her lunch. Her beaming face made Vonda want to pour her avocado juice over Sarah¡¯s head. But¡­


    Slowly, Vonda found herself smiling against her will. If there were two categories of women after marriage-happy and unhappy-she was sure Sarah was in the third category. Extremely happy.


    For her friend¡¯s happiness, Vonda was secretly grateful. In retrospect, no one would have expected her quirky friend to end up with her college dream boy. That made Vonda believes. The leftover rice that Sarah often had stuck to her lips after eating was indeed some kind of magic charm.


    As Vonda decided to continue enjoying her lunch, her phone suddenly beeped. A new message had arrived.


    ¡°From who?¡± Sarah asked, looking at Vonda. ¡°Your potential suitor?¡±


    Vonda scoffed. She opened the message and scowled.


    OLD HIGH SCHOOL FRIEND:


    Hey everyone!


    For those of you who haven¡¯t paid the contribution for Robby¡¯s wedding gift, please transfer the amount as soon as possible.


    Vonda¡¯s chewing stopped abruptly as she read the message. She lifted her head.


    ¡°From the High School Alumni Association.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a wedding this Saturday,¡± Vonda continued. ¡°I almost forgot I got an invitation. Oh my.¡±


    Sarah pulled out her iced tea ss and sipped the less sweetened liquid. ¡°So, what now?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes turned to Sarah. ¡°Will youe to the wedding? I can¡¯t possibly go alone, can I?¡±


    ¡°Eh? I don¡¯t feel like it. It¡¯s your high school friend¡¯s wedding, right? I don¡¯t know anyone there. Besides, why would you go alone? They are your high school friends. And before you start giving me reasons why I should go with you,¡± Sarah added quickly, ¡°I¡¯m just going to say that I¡¯ll be wearing a waitress costume from morning till night on Saturday. Why? Because my parent-inws are nning to take Lili to vacation.¡±


    Vonda blinked. ¡°How many costumes did Evan give you? Did he buy the whole store?¡±


    Sarah grinned. Whether she took Vonda¡¯s question seriously or just wanted to tease her more, she answered.


    ¡°There are five costumes. A kimono, a waitress, a bunny, a nurse, and a policeman. And you know? The costumes are so cute. Pretty, pinky, and very sexy.¡±


    Seriously?


    Vonda wanted to throw a one-kilogram avocado at Sarah¡¯s head. She could not believe her question was actually getting an answer. But while Sarah giggled at Vonda¡¯s blushing face, something urred to Vonda. It prompted her to send a message to someone.


    Vonda:


    Since I¡¯m feeling generous, how about I treat you to a free meal this Saturday?


    Vonda smiled with satisfaction. The problem was solved.


    *

 Gradually

    Vonda:


    Since I¡¯m feeling generous, how about I treat you to a free meal this Saturday?


    It took Max longer than usual to digest the meaning and intent of Vonda¡¯s message. It made him momentarily leave his lunch at a restaurant not far from the office. Not quite sure, Max decided to ask rather than immediately ept Vonda¡¯s invitation.


    Max:


    Free meal? What do you mean? Where?


    Max put his phone down without closing the WhatsApp application. He also did not leave the conversation with Vonda or take his eyes off the phone screen. Fortunately, Max was skilled enough to make sure that the spoonful of sliced beef rendang went into his mouth, not his nostrils.


    Vonda:


    Oh dear. Rx. You won¡¯te to any harm having a free meal with me. Just be ready this Saturday. You¡¯ll pick me up.


    Max frowned and furrowed his brow in confusion. For a moment he had the feeling of deja vu, then his eyes widened. Strangely enough, he chuckled a momentter.


    Max¡¯s chuckle grew even louder as he confirmed his suspicion by scrolling through their past messages from some time ago. Messages he had sent to Vonda when he had invited her to Lucas¡¯ house.


    ¡°Seriously!¡± Max shook his head. ¡°She copied my message, didn¡¯t she? Hahaha!¡± His eyes narrowed. ¡°With a little modification, huh?¡±


    Of course, Max¡¯s amused grin was directed at Vonda¡¯stest message. It wasn¡¯t Vonda who was going to pick him up, as Max¡¯s previous message had said, since she had copied his message. As it turned out, Vonda had said the opposite, telling him to pick her up. After finishing his lunch, Max chewed as he typed his reply.


    Max:Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Hey, I¡¯m serious. Where are we going? Is this meal worth the energy I¡¯m expending to pick you up? I¡¯m not satisfied with just a te of chicken rice, you know.


    Max grabbed his ss and took a sip of water. More than enough to soothe his throat. It felt a little heavy from the chili oil he had enjoyed.


    Vonda:


    Absolutely worth it. More than worth it. You can eat all you want. No problem with how much you eat. Oh, and you also have the chance to receive a free bouquet of flowers. What more do you want, Max?


    For the second time, Max¡¯s eyes widened as he read Vonda¡¯s message. His brain quickly connected all the information in the message.


    Free food. Eat what he wants. As much as he wants. A chance to receive a free bouquet of flowers too. Max¡¯s eyes blinked weakly.


    Max:


    You mean it¡¯s a free meal at a wedding reception, huh? Is that right?


    It did not take long for Vonda to answer.


    Vonda:


    Wow! Do you have a sixth sense? You¡¯re amazing to figure it out like that. Hahaha.


    Max shook his head while typing his answer.


    Max:


    I don¡¯t need a sixth sense to figure out what you mean. So, it¡¯s true, right? A wedding reception? Where is it? Is it in the morning or in the evening? What time?


    While he waited for Vonda¡¯s answer, Max decided to finish his lunch. He quickly finished the remaining rice on his te in one big bite, then reached for his phone again. But there was no reply from Vonda. So, Max decided to get up, pay for his lunch, and hurried out of the restaurant.


    As he drove to the office, Max checked his phone several times to see if Vonda¡¯s reply hade in. By the time he was almost at the office, Vonda hadn¡¯t responded to his message at all.


    ¡°Well, why bother using WhatsApp at all?¡± Max muttered as he reached for the car door. ¡°You just open the door and meet the person.¡±


    Just as Max said that, his retina caught sight of Vonda getting up from her seat. She immediately spoke to him.


    ¡°My phone ran out of battery, so I couldn¡¯t answer your message.¡±


    Max closed the door behind him and approached Vonda, stopping her from getting up from the table. In fact, she sat back down when she saw Max pull out a chair and sit down.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Vonda leaned over the table slightly. ¡°¡­ the event is in the evening. We can leave my ce around six. Don¡¯t want to get stuck in traffic, do we?¡±


    Max rolled his eyes once. ¡°Did I say I¡¯d go with you?¡±


    ¡°Jeez! Cruel,¡± Vonda muttered. ¡°Besides, you don¡¯t have any ns for Saturday night, do you?¡±


    Max was about to answer that question when Vonda¡¯s hand lifted and quickly continued her words.


    ¡°Never mind. Singles like us don¡¯t have to pretend to have many ns. We¡¯re both single. So, I know your routine for Saturday nights.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please tell me what.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes sparkled mischievously. ¡°Scrolling through Instagram and Facebook feeds. You know, just killing time. Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°Hey, but seriously. I can¡¯t possibly go to a wedding reception by myself. Because the bride told us to bring partner.¡±


    Max brought a hand to rest his chin on the table. ¡°Your friend? Sarah Robbers?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s stomach tingled when she heard Max say Sarah¡¯s name like that.


    ¡°She¡¯s busy with her husband,¡± Vonda replied with a slight shrug and a meaningful smile on her face. ¡°It¡¯s just a Saturday night.¡±


    Max immediately burst outughing.


    ¡°Hahaha. Well¡­ because I¡¯m kind-hearted and feel sorry for you being alone, I guess it¡¯s okay,¡± Max said then. ¡°Is there a certain dress code?¡±


    ¡°No dress codes. Don¡¯t worry,¡± Vonda replied with a shake of her head. ¡°The important thing is that you¡¯re still wearing clothes. Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s yful remark brought a mischievous grin to Max¡¯s face. It made him shake his head as he got up from his seat. But before Max went to his room, he spoke again.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll pick you up at six, but you pay for the gas, okay?¡±


    Vonda¡¯sughter grew louder.


    *


    By Saturday night, Max was all set in his unit. He looked neat, wearing a semi-formal outfit. Abination of ck khaki pants paired with a white shirt,pleted with a vest of the same color as his pants. A simple but elegantbination for someone like Max.


    ncing at the wall clock, Max noticed that it was only five o¡¯clock in the afternoon. Well¡­ maybe a few more minutes.


    Max¡¯s phone chimed. It was a message from Vonda.


    Vonda:


    Max, don¡¯t forget. It¡¯s six o¡¯clock now.


    Max¡¯s thumbs moved quickly as he typed a reply to Vonda¡¯s message. A mischievous grin appeared on his lips.


    Max:


    Oh dear. I totally forgot.


    I¡¯m going to take a shower first.


    Not long after that, Vonda¡¯s message came in. It was just as Max had expected.


    Vonda:


    Don¡¯t y with me, Max. I¡¯m ready here. Just waiting for you toe pick me up.


    Max chuckled quietly, but he did not want to stop. He still wanted to tease her.


    Max:


    Ready, huh? Really?


    A minuteter, a photo appeared on Max¡¯s phone. Apanied by a message that read:


    Vonda:


    Look. I¡¯m ready. So hurry.


    For a few seconds, Max stared at the photo Vonda had sent, then replied.


    Max:


    I¡¯m on my way.


    After sending the message, Max put his phone in his pocket and tried to dismiss the picture Vonda had sent earlier. Hmm¡­ not a picture of her face. Rather, a photo of a pair of long legs adorned with shoes. The legs looked quite alluring somehow.


    Five minutes before the clock struck six in the evening, Max had already parked his car in the parking lot of the apartment building. Walking casually into the building, Max was greeted politely by a receptionist.


    ¡°Are you here to pick up Miss Scott, Sir?¡±


    Max¡¯s steps stopped. He looked at the receptionist, who turned out to be none other than Rika. Max blinked once, then asked again to confirm.


    ¡°You mean¡­ me?¡±


    Max even pointed at his own nose when he asked this question.


    Rika nodded. ¡°Of course, Sir,¡± she replied. ¡°Who else? Hehehe. Are you here to fetch Miss Scott?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­ yes,¡± Max replied nervously.


    ¡°Aww¡­ someone¡¯s ready for a Saturday night,¡± Rika teased. ¡°Having a good time, Sir?¡±


    Max could only gape and then force a stiff smile before walking away. He made his way to the elevator and stepped inside. It did not take Max long to reach Vonda¡¯s floor. Whistling softly, he strolled down the hall.


    Outside Vonda¡¯s unit, Max rang the doorbell. While waiting for the door to open, he checked his watch again. Just to make sure he was notte for the pickup.


    A creak¡­


    Max lifted his head at the sound. The device door opened. And at that moment, Max felt like he was in a slow-motion action movie scene.


    Max knew this feeling well. It was as if a gun was pointed at him and then fired. The bullet glided straight and plunged, piercing his heart.


    Baaammm!


    Everything in Max¡¯s field of vision went dark until a face with a beaming smile appeared. Lips painted in a soft mauve-pink lipstick moved to greet him with two simple words. But strangely, it felt different to him.


    Vonda smiled.


    ¡°Hi, Max.¡±


    *

 A Taste Adventure 1

    That night, Vonda did not look as sexy as she had during her first spontaneous encounter with Max. The knee-length off-white dress with a tight open shoulder that hugged her body was her choice then.


    Instead of exuding a sexy impression, Vonda now presented herself differently. She seemed more reserved, though her natural beauty still shone through. At least that¡¯s what Max¡¯s eyes perceived.


    Vonda chose a knee-length ck dress. Again. Somehow it happened to match Max¡¯s color choice.


    The dress had short sleeves, cinched at the waist, and traced the contours of Vonda¡¯s lower body with subtle elegance. It was remarkably simple, with minimal embellishment, yet it exuded an undeniable elegance. A single, not overlyrge ribbon adorned the back of Vonda¡¯s dress, serving as a bow to modestly cover the open area there.


    Yes, Max sighed in his thoughts. If I look closely, it¡¯s understandable that she prefers dresses with open backs. Her back is really beautiful.


    Max blinked. Just as Vonda, her hair elegantly styled in a simple updo, greeted him.


    ¡°Hi, Max.¡±


    Max smiled. ¡°Hi there.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened. Vonda looked at him, a small wrinkle forming on her forehead.


    ¡°Um. You¡¯ve probably been eating too much fatty foodtely. Your voice sounds hoarse.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Max blinked, then cleared his throat a little louder than usual. ¡°Um! Y-yeah, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Would you like a drink?¡± Vonda offered.


    But Max quickly shook his head. ¡°No need. I¡¯m fine. Let¡¯s just go.¡±


    Max declined the offer and Vonda did not insist. She pulled the doorknob, and the two of them walked down the hall to the elevator.


    Oh, my goodness. Why do I feel so awkward suddenly?


    Max took a deep breath, trying to dispel the warmth that had spread across his face. A natural reaction, embarrassment crept in as the fact sank in that his voice had be embarrassingly hoarse due to Vonda¡¯s performance earlier that evening.


    Embarrassing, but Max defended himself. Vonda did look beautiful, and it caused a slight disturbance in his mind.


    Her appearance really did not reflect her somewhat entric personality.


    Max and Vonda arrived at the wedding venue on time. It was held in an art gallery that had been transformed into a vibrant wedding reception hall. Bright lights adorned with blooming flowers of various colors created a stunning ambiance. As if they were the perfect wee for all the guests.


    Out of politeness, or perhaps because he had been taught by his parents, Max walked confidently over to the passenger side of the car. He opened the door just before Vonda could reach for the handle from inside. Vonda smiled as she noticed Max holding the door for her.


    Yes, at least he knew the etiquette of dealing with women, even in the smallest gestures.


    Max held the door open with one hand. His face slightly downcast, Max¡¯s gaze followed as one of Vonda¡¯s legs descended and touched the parking lot floor. Casting a clear silhouette against her slender calf. Making Max swallow hard.


    Vonda stepped out of the car and nced at Max¡¯s hand, which was raised just above his head. It was then that Max¡¯s joke was heard.


    ¡°If your head hits the roof of the car, I¡¯m afraid your brain will get even more messed up.¡±


    Instead of getting angry, Vonda burst into giggles. She briefly considered giving him a yful pinch-perhaps in the stomach or arm-but decided against it.


    Her clothes would get wrinkled.


    They passed the greeters. While Vonda signed her name in the guest book, Max looked around. He noticed that many guests had already filled the seats inside.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Max turned to find Vonda standing next to him. He gave her a quick nod and they entered.


    ¡°Um, this is my high school girlfriend¡¯s wedding. So, this event is supposed to be lively with my high school friends,¡± Vonda exined, ncing around the room. ¡°Maybe they haven¡¯t arrived yet? They¡¯re still talking on the group chat about being on their way.¡±


    Max nced as Vonda put her phone back in her purse.


    ¡°So?¡± Max asked. ¡°Do we wait for your friends to get here first?¡±


    Vonda narrowed her eyes. ¡°Like they¡¯re so important.¡±


    Max grinned.


    ¡°Besides,¡± Vonda continued, mischief gleaming in her eyes. ¡°How many tables do we have to visit here?¡±


    Max chuckled. He looked around. Of course, he understood what Vonda was referring to ¨C the food tables scattered around the ce.


    Looking back, Max¡¯s eyes met Vonda¡¯s. He caught a glimpse of her cleavage as she tilted her head to look at him.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Vonda challenged him in a yful tone, and Max dly epted the challenge.


    It was obvious from his reaction a momentter.


    ¡°Who¡¯s afraid?¡±


    They shared a quickugh and began their adventure. To begin, they decided to warm up at the fruit table. Various fruits were beautifully disyed, ready to be enjoyed. Watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, papaya, and oranges were among the offerings, all looking fresh with small cubes of ice around them.


    ¡°Okay. This papaya is so sweet. Seriously.¡±


    Max turned to Vonda and noticed that her cheeks were slightly puffed up from a piece of papaya she had just eaten.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Swallowing the piece of melon he had bitten into, Max looked at the small te in Vonda¡¯s hand. He noticed that she had taken more papaya than other fruits.


    ¡°Really?¡± Max asked, as if he needed more convincing, even though Vonda¡¯s face had already answered the question clearly.


    Vonda nodded. ¡°Try it.¡±


    With a small fork in her hand, Vonda lifted a piece of papaya toward Max. Within seconds, the fruit disappeared into Max¡¯s mouth. His forehead furrowed as he chewed, and the taste buds on his tongue savored the sweetness emanating from the papaya.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that right?¡± Vonda smiled broadly. ¡°It¡¯s incredibly sweet.¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Well, the melon is very refreshing too. Here, try it!¡±


    This time it was Max who raised the fork and offered the fresh green melon. Vonda nodded as the piece of melon changed shape in her mouth and slid smoothly down her throat.


    ¡°This pineapple is a little tart, you know.¡±


    Max remarked, shifting his attention to the pineapple. ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. Luckily the watermelon and oranges are sweet.¡±


    ¡°By the way,¡± Vonda half-whispered in Max¡¯s ear, feeling lucky for the extra three inches her heels gave her so she could just tiptoe to reach his ear. ¡°Don¡¯t eat too much watermelon and oranges.¡±


    Max, who had originally intended to take both kinds of fruit, pulled his hand back. ¡°Why?¡±


    As if to add drama to her statement, Vonda narrowed her eyes and even added a mysterious aura to her tone.


    ¡°Because watermelons and oranges have a lot of water in them. If you eat too much of them, your stomach will be full of water and won¡¯t have room for other food.¡±


    Maxughed and put his fruit te on the table. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. Thanks for reminding me.¡±


    Vonda put her fruit te down as well. ¡°What¡¯s next?¡±


    ¡°Food bar!¡±


    The next object they approached was the food bar. From taco, burger, pasta, mashed potato, sd, sereal pancake, waffle, nacho, sushi, and ice cream. They enjoyed every one of them.


    After finishing the food bar, they moved to the main course table while continuing their conversation. At that moment, a greeting reached their ears.


    ¡°Vonda?¡±


    *

 A Taste Adventure 2

    Both Vonda and Max, who was not directly addressed, stopped abruptly. They turned to see several people approaching Vonda. Quickly counting in his mind, Max realized that three women and two men were walking toward them.


    ¡°You¡¯ve finally arrived,¡± Vonda said with a sweet smile. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d make it.¡±


    Max took a small step back so Vonda could greet her friends. It did not take long for those casual greetings to turn into heartyughter.


    It was unclear how long it took Vonda and her friends to catch up, until one of them took Vonda¡¯s hand and gave Max a meaningful look. Naturally, Max felt ufortable under the gaze of five pairs of eyes staring at him with implied meaning.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡±


    Of course, Max knew he was the subject of discussion. Taking the initiative, he approached and extended his hand for a handshake. He introduced himself and was warmly received.


    ¡°Max. Maxwell Hernandez.¡±


    As they introduced themselves, Max tried to remember the names of Vonda¡¯s friends. There was Marie Walker, Rose Collins, Grace Anderson, Samuel Carter, and Michael Smith.


    After the brief introductions, it was not unusual for Vonda and Max to face follow-up questions. They were the kind of questions that old friends tend to ask out of sudden curiosity.


    ¡°New boyfriend, huh?¡± Marie asked frankly. ¡°Or is this one more than just a friend?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s going to be another party, isn¡¯t there?¡± teased Grace.


    Meanwhile, Michael shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s no way that guy is Vonda¡¯s boyfriend. He¡¯s way too good for her.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    In the midst of theughter that erupted, it was Max¡¯sughter that made Vonda purse her lips. She looked at Max with a yful sneer.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t me who said that,¡± Max quickly defended. ¡°It was your friends.¡±


    With a quick scoff, Vonda rified her friends¡¯ misunderstanding.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Michael. Max is definitely not my boyfriend.¡±


    This time Rose teased. ¡°Already engaged, huh?¡±


    ¡°Not even a boyfriend,¡± Vonda replied. ¡°Let alone engaged. Um¡­ he¡¯s just a friend who happened to be free on a Sunday night.¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes looked at Max. ¡°You know what that means, don¡¯t you? This handsome guy is single. In other words, even if he¡¯s supposed to be better looking than me, it doesn¡¯t matter. Our status is the same.¡±


    Laughter erupted, especially from Max, who could only shake his head in amazement at Vonda¡¯s rxed response. Their conversation continued as they enjoyed the main course that was being served.


    Seated at a round table with six friends, their meal was punctuated by light conversation and bursts ofughter. When Max finally finished his meal, he excused himself to go to the restroom. At that moment, Samuel shifted in his chair and approached Vonda, who was still eating.


    ¡°Um¡­ your boy friend,¡± Samuel began, getting an immediate response from Vonda. ¡°Have you known him long?¡±


    Deciding to take a sip, Vonda replied after putting her ss back on the table.


    ¡°Um¡­ I haven¡¯t known him very long. It¡¯s been less than a month, I guess.¡±


    Samuel furrowed his brow. ¡°Less than a month and he¡¯s already apanying you to an event like this?¡±


    Samuel¡¯s question was met with a nervous chuckle from Vonda. She could clearly sense Samuel¡¯s surprise. To be honest, Vonda felt the same confusion. It seemed illogical-having only met a few weeks ago and already being invited to an event like a wedding reception. But as Vonda thought about it, a realization dawned.


    Could my rtionship with Max ever be considered logical? From our first meeting, to the way we were introduced, to the events that followed, not a single thing fits into the category of being reasonable. Inviting him to a wedding might make more sense than waking up to be called my future daughter-inw by his mother.


    Vonda took a deep breath.


    ¡°Well, yes,¡± Vonda said then. ¡°It¡¯s not just express delivery expeditions that have the ¡®super fast express¡¯ category. He and I are even beyond that.¡±


    Samuel fell silent, listening to Vonda¡¯s ramblings.


    ¡°Um¡­ what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Samuel held out his hand, this time taking a sip from his ss before answering Vonda¡¯s question.


    ¡°Nothing, really. It¡¯s just that I feel like his face is familiar to me.¡±


    ¡°Familiar?¡±


    Samuel¡¯s head nodded once. ¡°That¡¯s why I asked if you¡¯ve known him for a while. It seems he was once engaged to my cousin of nephew¡¯s sister-inw¡¯s friend.¡±


    Crash!


    Vonda was stunned as she looked at Samuel, who had resumed drinking from his ss, while she wore a nk expression that revealed her confusion.


    Samuel turned to her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Vonda blinked once. ¡°Just thinking. Cousin of nephew¡¯s sister-inw¡¯s friend? Repeat that. Why do we live in such aplicated kinship system?¡±


    Laughter erupted from Samuel¡¯s lips. Meanwhile, Vonda decided to simply reach for her drink ss, saving her energy from pondering the status of the girl Samuel was discussing.


    Huh? It¡¯s a girl, right?


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    It was as if something new had dawned on Vonda besides theplex kinship system. Something that made her put down her ss.


    ¡°Engagement?¡±


    Samuel, who had initially averted his gaze from Vonda to the stage to enjoy the singing of a guest, was forced to turn his attention back to her. He answered with a brief nod.


    ¡°That was in the past. Don¡¯t worry about it. Besides, I just wanted to check. Is he really the Max I know? Besides, I don¡¯t think he knows me. I mean, I only vaguely remember now because we only met at his engagement party before.¡±


    ¡°Seriously?¡± Vonda asked.


    ¡°Yeah. That was a long time ago.¡± Samuel seemed silent for a moment, lost in thought. ¡°I think it was over five years ago. They were only engaged for three or four months.¡±


    Vonda blinked quickly. ¡°They didn¡¯t get married?¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Von.¡± Samuel rolled his eyeszily. ¡°If they got married, there¡¯s no way he¡¯d be here with you. That would mean their rtionship had failed. Wait¡­¡± Samuel narrowed his eyes. ¡°You¡¯re not jealous of the past, are you?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Because if you are,¡± Samuel continued, ¡°it¡¯s just a number that adds up to your age. Not your maturity.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Who said I was jealous of the past?¡± Vonda eximed. ¡°I was just curious. Besides, he never told me about it.¡±


    ¡°Why would anyone talk about a bad past? Especially if his ex is already married to someone else, right?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Although I¡¯ve heard their marriage isn¡¯t happy. They¡¯ve been through several court mediations.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Vonda whispered again.


    Samuel chuckled. ¡°Rx. That¡¯s all in the past. Now he¡¯s with you in the future, right?¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Vonda¡¯s expression suddenly turned to horror. ¡°He might not have a future if he¡¯s with me.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Always self-conscious,¡± Samuel said amusedly. ¡°That¡¯s what I like about you.¡±


    Vonda pretended to flip her hair. ¡°Don¡¯t tease me, okay? It won¡¯t work.¡±


    Perhaps their banter would have continued if Max had not returned a few secondster. Seeing Max, Samuel pulled his chair back. He reestablished the distance he had eroded earlier.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it would be better if you came here alone?¡± Max asked as he sat down.


    Vonda looked at him. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been watching, and it seems that your friend Samuel likes you,¡± Max whispered in Vonda¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Come on!¡± Vonda chuckled briefly and threw out a question. ¡°By the way¡­ do you know two things in this world that are quite amusing?¡±


    A sudden change of subject, Max thought.


    But Max did not hesitate to answer the question. Not with an answer, but with a question of his own.


    ¡°What?¡±


    In response to Max¡¯s question, Vonda cast a look with a mysterious glow. As mysterious as the answer she had whispered in Max¡¯s ear earlier.


    ¡°Jealousy of the past and jealousy of things that don¡¯t exist.¡±


    *

 Process of Change

    ¡°So, how was it? Wasn¡¯t it worth it to enjoy a free meal with me? Just think, if you ate that much in a restaurant¡­ how much money would you have spent?¡±


    Max grinned, ncing at Vonda who was sitting in the passenger seat. She seemed pleased as she asked him the question.


    ¡°Well¡­ it¡¯s true, not a bad deal. But you have to remember something. Actually, it¡¯s you who hasn¡¯t lost anything by inviting me. I¡¯ve proven to be a profitable dining partner.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face lit up as she reflexivelyughed at Max¡¯s words, making his grin even wider. Nevertheless, Vonda expressed her gratitude.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Vonda uttered the single word as she unbuckled her seatbelt. She turned to face Max, who was also looking back at her.


    ¡°For riding with me and bing a profitable partner,¡± Vonda continued.


    ¡°No problem,¡± Max replied easily. ¡°Don¡¯t hesitate to invite me for another free meal next time.¡±


    Vonda nodded in amusement, assuring Max that he would be the first person she¡¯d think of if she got another offer for a free meal.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t youing in?¡± Vonda asked, changing the subject. ¡°Or do you want to go right back?¡±


    Max checked his watch and shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s almost one a. m.,¡± he said. ¡°I think I should just head back. Besides, I¡¯m already so full. I¡¯ll probably fall asleep soon.¡±


    ¡°Eh? Are you tired? It¡¯s dangerous to drive when you¡¯re tired.¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes widened slightly in concern. ¡°If not¡­ you could just leave your car here. Take a taxi back.¡±


    But Max shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll be fine. I can still manage.¡±


    For a few moments, Vonda seemed to assess Max¡¯s condition. Perhaps she was unsure if Max could really fight his sleepiness or not.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Max reassured her. ¡°I¡¯ll definitely make it back to my apartment safely.¡±


    Finally, Vonda got out of Max¡¯s car. She stood in the parking lot until Max¡¯s car drove through the security gate and into traffic.


    ¡°Aww¡­ing homete, huh? I thought you weren¡¯ting back, Miss.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lower lip protruded slightly as she heard Rika greet her with a teasing remark. For Vonda, it was not surprising at all. In fact, it would be strange if it was the other way around.


    ¡°If I didn¡¯te back,¡± Vonda said with a grin. ¡°Where would I sleep? On the side of the road?¡±


    Rika supported her chin with one hand and asked the question with a rhythmic tone in her voice. ¡°Where else would you sleep?¡±


    ¡°You¡­!¡±


    Vonda shuddered as a single shiver ran down her spine. It made her look horrified.


    ¡°You¡¯re incorrigible! Always thinking of lewd things.¡±


    Rikaughed as she saw Vonda leave in a hurry. But that didn¡¯t mean that the receptionist didn¡¯t manage to finish her teasing with onest sentence.


    ¡°I meant go back to your parents¡¯ house, Miss. Hihihi. It¡¯s you who has other things on your mind.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips moved abstractly from side to side as she muttered, Rika¡¯s words echoing in the lobby. Fortunately, it was quiet at the moment, so Vonda managed to keep her embarrassment to herself.


    Spending the night at Max¡¯s?


    Vonda fought hard to dismiss the thought as the elevator took her to the floor where her unit was located.


    Because of Rika¡­ now I¡¯m thinking strange things. This girl is something else! How is it that her hobby triggers memories from the past?


    Besides, it¡¯s not as if Vonda could forget it easily. It was her first experience.


    A first experience that was very different from most girls¡¯ first experiences. Not only was it with a stranger, but the ce was unusual. On the side of the road.


    A first experience too strange to be easily forgotten. Especially¡­ because after this incident, Vonda and Max found themselves in even stranger situations.


    When Vonda reached her unit, she immediately went to the bathroom. She removed her dress, took a quick shower, washed her face, and returned to the room. She put on a knee-length jumpsuit pajama.


    Vonda yawned, feeling more tired than she had first thought, her eyelids heavy with sleep. But there was one thing that made her resist the beckoning bed.


    Half an hour passed, and Vonda endured it with a magazine, only ncing at the pictures. She had no intention of adding to her drowsiness by reading the string of words in the article. But as time went on, Vonda found it harder and harder to hold out. Finally, she gave in and reached for her cell phone, which she had ced on the nightstand earlier.


    Vonda:


    Hey, Brother of Kitty. Are you there yet?


    Vonda¡¯s eyes felt even heavier. As she waited for a response from Max, she rested her head on the pillow. Trying to find afortable position, shey on her side and tried to stay awake.


    But every moment she spent staring at her phone screen made Vonda¡¯s eyelids feel even heavier. It was no surprise that five minutester she could no longer resist. She surrendered to unconsciousness just as a message arrived on her WhatsApp.


    Max:


    We were born from different wombs. You call me Brother of Kitty, get ready for me to call you Sister of Kitty. By the way, I just got here.


    Vonda didn¡¯t read this message. She also missed the next message that came in.


    Max:


    Uh, Sister of Kitty.


    Are you sleeping or sulking?


    *


    The sound of Vonda¡¯s phone in the morning woke her from her sleep. She opened her eyes, and with reflexes honed over time, she answered the call after struggling to read the contact¡¯s name on the phone¡¯s screen.


    ¡°Hello, Mom.¡±


    For once, don¡¯t think it¡¯s Riley calling. In fact, it¡¯s Vonda¡¯s biological mother on the other end of the line. A middle-aged woman named Heidi rk.


    ¡°Vonda? Are you still asleep at this hour?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes, which had closed after answering the call, tried to open again. Only to look at the wall clock hanging in her room.


    ¡°It¡¯s early, Mom.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s weak voice contrasted with the enthusiastic tone of Heidi on the other end.


    ¡°It¡¯s already noon, Von. Oh, my goodness! It¡¯s already eight o¡¯clock. How can you still be asleep?¡±


    ¡°Yawn!¡± Vonda yawned and shut her eyes again. ¡°I had a weddingst night, Mom. I got back almost one o¡¯clock. Got together with my high school friends. That¡¯s why I¡¯m so tired now. Besides¡­ I¡¯m awake, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Tsk tsk tsk. Howe? Did you go to the wedding alone again?¡±


    Vonda pouted immediately upon hearing her mother¡¯s words. ¡°Mom, seriously¡­ not a good topic of conversation in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Not really, but¡­¡±


    Heidi sounded like she paused for a moment, causing Vonda to open her eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re okay, right?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s gaze seemed t as she replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mom. I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s answer brought a moment of silence to the conversation. Until Heidi¡¯s sigh was heard again. As if to release a weight she was feeling.


    ¡°Has Andrew¡¯s family not contacted you again?¡±


    This time Vonda let out a tired sigh. She didn¡¯t want to talk about this. Especially in the morning. Vonda thought it would be a bad way to start the day.


    ¡°They didn¡¯t,¡± Vonda replied. ¡°That¡¯s because I¡¯ve blocked all their numbers.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Vonda.¡±


    Heidi¡¯s voice sounded surprised and disbelieving. She had never expected Vonda to do that.


    ¡°You blocked all her numbers?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom. I don¡¯t want to have any more contact with them. Besides, what¡¯s the point, right?¡±


    ¡°Are you really not going to tell me why you and Andrew broke up? Maybe your problems can be solved. Besides, you and Andrew have been together for quite a while, Von.¡±


    This time Vonda changed her position slightly. She chose to lie on her back and stare at the ceiling of her room. For a moment, one of her hands went up andnded on her temple, giving it a little massage.


    ¡°Just because we¡¯ve been together for a while, it¡¯s pointless to keep the rtionship if both sides don¡¯t have the same goals. Instead of drifting further apart, it¡¯s better to stop while we can. Do you want me to get married and divorced? Broke up is still better, right?¡±


    This time Vonda¡¯s words seemed to hit the mark. There was no more resistance from Heidi. Just the expression of a mother¡¯s concern, which Vonda discoveredter.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to feel pressured. Especially with your sibling¡¯s engagementing up.¡±


    Something made Vonda understand why Heidi had been asking more often about her ended rtionship with Andrew.


    ¡°I¡¯m not stressed at all, Mom. Don¡¯t worry. Even if it¡¯s destiny for Kania to get married first, what can we do? Should we go against God¡¯s will? And do I just have to get married by chance? Is that right? Is that what you want?¡±


    ¡°You, really,¡± Heidi replied. ¡°Marry at random? Has your mouth not been vored with devil¡¯s chili yet?¡±


    Vonda smiled mischievously. At least she knew her words struck a chord with her mother.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s up to you.¡± Heidi¡¯s voice said that she had given up pushing Vonda that morning. ¡°But what¡¯s important is¡­ when are youing home? How long has it been since youst came home?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mom. I remember the address, you know. Hehehe. I have a lot of work now, so I can¡¯te home yet.¡±


    ¡°At least remember toe hometer to help with Kania¡¯s engagement.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    After this serious topic, Vonda entertained her mother¡¯s conversation about various other things.


    Fighting the sleepiness that hadn¡¯t quite left her, Vonda still tried to engage with her mother. She realized that¡¯s what a mother does. Calling for a long time is a form of attention Vonda would like to receive.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Vonda sighed in relief as the call ended and then checked her phone. Her smile widened as she read the message from Max that she had just seen in the morning.


    A smile that didn¡¯t take long to turn into a gentle chuckle.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sister of Kitty?¡±


    Something mischievous suddenly crossed Vonda¡¯s mind. Something she reflexively typed into a message sent to Max.


    Vonda:


    Sister of Kitty? You thought I was Cat Woman. Want me to scratch you?


    *

 A Speck of Difference 1

    ¡°Good morning, Sister of Kitty.¡±


    A greeting reached Vonda¡¯s ears this morning. Just as she had taken a few steps away from her parked car in the office parking lot. Rolling her eyes for a moment, Vonda was sure that the person greeting her was Max. Even without looking, and yes! It was indeed Max.


    Who else would know about Sister of Kitty?


    ¡°Good morning to you too, Brother of Kitty.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t quite fit, I think. It suits you better to be called Sister of Kitty,¡± Max said as he shifted his bag from one hand to the other. At first, he held the bag in his left hand, but since the bag took up some space between them, he switched hands.


    Vonda, who had her work bag slung over her left shoulder, turned to look at him. She gave a slight mocking twitch of her lower lip.


    ¡°But you¡¯re Kitty¡¯s brother. I am not.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Kitty¡¯s brother?¡± Max snorted, pushed the door open and gestured for Vonda to enter before him. ¡°Just like that?¡±


    ¡°Well, when I had a video call with Mom that one time, she called for Kitty. Mom said that,¡± Vonda said, smiling as she imitated her mother. ¡°Kitty! Come here, sweetie. Let Mommy introduce you to Mommy¡¯s future daughter-inw.¡±


    Vonda burst outughing. Max didn¡¯t want to imagine it, but Vonda¡¯s words became a vivid image in his mind. The image of Riley waving and calling for Kitty as they chattered like mother and child instantly came to mind and made him shake his head.


    ¡°Tsk! Looks like you have regr video calls with Mom.¡±


    Their footsteps stopped in front of the elevator, and perhaps because it was early, there were no other employees around.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like it¡¯s a regr thing, but yes, Mom does contact me often. So, I have to answer, whether I like it or not.¡±


    The elevator doors opened and they stepped in side by side. Max pushed the elevator button, and the doors closed a momentter.


    ¡°If it bothers you, just don¡¯t answer it. I¡¯ll tell Mom not to bother you.¡±


    Vonda huffed. ¡°I don¡¯t feel disturbed, really. Besides, talking to Mom is fun. Instead of hearing Sarah¡¯s gossip and all that, I¡¯d rather listen to Mom¡¯s chatter.¡±


    Max grinned. ¡°Why aren¡¯t any of theparisons urate?¡±


    ¡°Hehehe. Don¡¯t take offense, Mom is just fun to talk to. I don¡¯t mind at all. In fact, I consider it a way to refresh my mind.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Max was taken aback. Just then, the elevator doors opened and they stepped out together.


    ¡°Did you know? Yesterday afternoon, Mom gave me spicy fried chicken.¡±


    ¡°Oh, really?¡±


    Vonda narrowed her eyes and nodded briefly. ¡°Guess what? Mom gave me three boxes of seasoned and battered chicken thighs. She said I could fry them whenever I wanted to eat them.¡±


    Max, who had reached out to turn the doorknob of their room, suddenly stopped. His hand clenched and he turned to Vonda, who was standing next to him, seemingly waiting for the door to open.


    ¡°Wait. Who gave you the chicken, your mom or my mom?¡±


    Vonda burst outughing. Not because of Max¡¯s question or his expression as he asked it. Rather, it was thebination of the two.


    ¡°Your mom, of course.¡±


    The door opened and Vonda stepped in first before Max followed. He made sure to close it behind him.


    ¡°Listening to you earlier, I started to have doubts. Are you or I the real biological child of Mom?¡±Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda went straight to her desk. But her eyes did not leave Max, who was heading for the door of his office.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know, do you? It seems that in my entire life, Mom has never sent me her seasoned and battered fried chicken in three boxes.¡±


    Vonda yfully shed a teasing grin. ¡°Jealous, huh? Jealous, huh? Jealous? Hahaha!¡±


    Ignoring Vonda¡¯s teasing, Max pouted briefly before entering his office. He let out all his frustration, imagining how his biological mother seemed to pay more attention to Vonda.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t even ask if her biological child had eaten or not. Instead, she sends food to someone else¡¯s child, you know?¡±


    Oddly enough, Max¡¯s phone rang just as he was grumbling. Riley was calling him.


    ¡°Mom.¡± Max addressed Riley as soon as he answered the call. ¡°Are you going to interrogate me again this morning?¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Riley¡¯s voice came from the other side. ¡°Seriously! I call and get used of wanting to interrogate.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Max sighed, long and melodramatic. Abandoning his original intention to sit down, he now decided to stand near his desk. ¡°What if I¡¯m the one to interrogate you this morning? Just for a change, you know? You can¡¯t interrogate me all the time.¡±


    ¡°Huh? You want to question me? Like, did I do something wrong or what? Why do you want to interrogate me?¡±


    ¡°Typical of a criminal to act like that. They don¡¯t even know when they¡¯ve made a mistake.¡±


    ¡°Tsk tsk tsk. You, seriously. Fine. Tell me what mistake I made that you want to interrogate her about.¡±


    The corner of Max¡¯s lip curled up in a knowing grin that Riley unfortunately did not see at that moment.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    On the other end, the different tone in Max¡¯s voice made Riley furrow his brow. A little confused, but he let Max continue.


    Max took a breath before continuing. ¡°Actually, who is your biological child?¡±


    ¡°Huh? What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ who is your biological child?¡± Max repeated. ¡°Me, Kitty, or Vonda?¡± Max blinked.


    Wait, why bring up Kitty?


    Max shook his head once.


    No need to rify the question. Mom loves Kitty very much too.


    Riley¡¯s chuckle sounded through the phone line.


    ¡°Tsk tsk tsk. What does this question mean? Are you stressed out or something, Max? If you think you¡¯re going crazy, I¡¯ll go with you to a counseling session. It¡¯s a shame that Vonda has to have an insane husband.¡±¡±


    ¡°Hohoho!¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°You want to apany me to counseling not because you¡¯re worried about my mental health, but because you¡¯re actually worried about Vonda.¡±


    A short silence before Riley¡¯s voice came through again. This time, however, Riley¡¯s voice was softer.


    ¡°Um, Max.¡±


    Frowning, Max asked, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°That¡­ are you really considering counseling for your mental health?¡±


    *

 A Speck of Difference 2

    ¡°It¡¯s true, Max is like that sometimes. One should be understanding, right, Von? He¡¯s an only child, you know, and sometimes he gets a little spoiled.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    It was hard for Vonda to keep from bursting outughing. Fortunately, she was in the bathroom when Riley called her during the break. At least she wouldn¡¯t disturb anyone with her giggling.


    Ugh! Vonda could not imagine having to suppress herughter in the office cafeteria. She could be a spectacle again.


    ¡°Even the chicken thigh can make him like that.¡±


    Vonda tried to hold back herughter by taking a deep breath, but it was so hard. She keptughing until the corners of her eyes were moist.


    Now that she thought about it, Vonda had answered Riley¡¯s call five minutes ago, that¡¯s when herughter had started. After Riley had started telling her about Max questioning him about the three cases of chicken thighs.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Max to actually talk to you about the chicken legs. Hahaha! Oh, my goodness. How can a guy be jealous over three boxes of chicken thighs?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not really envy,¡± Riley chimed in with a chuckle. ¡°More like jealousy. Well¡­ he is an only child. I¡¯m been thinking, too. It¡¯s true, I haven¡¯t sent him any food all this time.¡±


    ¡°Ugh! You¡¯re so cruel.¡±


    ¡°Tsk! Speaking of me being cruel,¡± Riley sighed. ¡°But¡­ what can we do? It¡¯s kind of pointless sending him food. He won¡¯t eat it. I¡¯m pretty sure of that.¡±


    Vonda blinked quickly, feeling tickled for a moment. Because she was standing in front of a mirror that allowed her to see the movement of her eyes.


    ¡°Max is the type who doesn¡¯t like to eat much. Look. His refrigerator is full of frozen pizza. If I send him food, it¡¯s useless. He won¡¯t eat it.


    Someone who doesn¡¯t like to eat much?


    Um. Somehow Vonda felt something was wrong.


    ~


    ¡°This chicken mushroom noodles are delicious, you know. You should feel grateful to have this. ¡°Especially you¡¯re treated by me.¡±


    ¡°Well, the melon is very refreshing too. Here, try it!¡±


    ~


    Vonda furrowed her brow. shes of several asions when she and Max had eaten together shed through her mind. Which made the girl think even harder.


    ¡°Um.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Von?¡± Riley asked.


    ¡°Why do I feel like you¡¯re talking about a different Max?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Vonda let out a short breath before answering Riley¡¯s question. ¡°I don¡¯t think Max is like that, Mom. In my opinion, when ites to food, he¡¯s really enthusiastic. He¡¯ll eat anything. I mean, if there were ten dishes on the table, he¡¯d definitely eat them all.¡±


    This time it was Riley who wasughing on the other end.


    ¡°Oh¡­ that¡¯s a different story,¡± Riley said. ¡°When I said he didn¡¯t like eating much, I meant if the situation wasn¡¯t right.¡±


    ¡°The situation?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Max doesn¡¯t like to eat alone. When he¡¯s alone, he eats just to survive, nothing more.¡±


    Vonda grinned. Whether it was because of Max¡¯s aversion to eating alone or the other way around.


    ¡°When he¡¯s alone, he only wants to eat simple things. Like frozen pizza. He won¡¯t eat food he considersplicated. Especially if it involves washing too many dishes. Uh¡­ don¡¯t ask. He definitely doesn¡¯t want to. That¡¯s why he doesn¡¯t like to eat much food when he¡¯s alone,¡± Riley exined, pausing to take a deep breath. ¡°But¡­ it¡¯s a different story when he¡¯s with you. I¡¯m sure he eats hearty then. Hihihi.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡±


    This time Vonda felt her face stiffen a little at Riley¡¯s teasing behind his words. Although, in the end, Riley¡¯s next words actually surprised Vonda.


    ¡°Being born without siblings, Max was automatically close to me and Dad. So, we try really hard to always be close to him. Maybe that¡¯s why Max doesn¡¯t like to eat alone. He must feel lonely.


    For some reason, Vonda¡¯s mind wandered to something else entirely.


    He doesn¡¯t feel like I¡¯m stealing his mother or anything, does he? Does he feel like I¡¯m taking his mom¡¯s attention? Like Kitty?


    Maybe that¡¯s why Vonda found herself knocking quietly on Max¡¯s office door when the break was over. She entered as soon as she heard Max¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    Max examined Vonda, looking at her hands. At first, he thought Vonda hade for work-rted matters. But she didn¡¯t bring anything. Max lifted his head and put his pen down on the table.


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Vonda approached. ¡°I have three cases of chicken thighs.¡±


    Max¡¯s expression changed immediately. He looked tired as he looked at herzily.


    ¡°I already know.¡±


    Vonda couldn¡¯t help but be amused at Max¡¯s sulky face. ¡°Seems like three boxes is way too much for just me.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Max squinted. ¡°Are you saying you want to give me a box or something?¡± He sighed once. ¡°No need. I don¡¯t think I have any cooking oil in my unit. Like I¡¯m going to fry the chicken with hair oil or perfume.¡±


    Vonda burst outughing. ¡°Oh¡­ you¡¯re sulking just like that?¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s sulking?¡± Max replied, ring.


    ¡°And then¡­¡± Vonda looked. ¡°¡­ if you¡¯re not sulking, does that mean you¡¯re willing?¡±


    ¡°Willing for what? A box of chicken thighs? No need. I-¡±


    ¡°Willing to stop by my unit?¡± Vonda interrupted. ¡°I¡¯ll fry them. So, you can just eat.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Max blinked. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Ignoring the question, Vonda said instead, ¡°I also have frozen French fries. Chili sauce and a big bottle of Coke. A perfectbination, right?¡±


    Max¡¯s face, which had appeared annoyed, instantly brightened. This amused Vonda and tempted her to be a bit mischievous.


    ¡°Well¡­ if you don¡¯t want-¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡±


    This time Max cut Vonda off.


    ¡°Rather than disappoint you by declining your offer, well¡­ I¡¯ll ept it, albeit reluctantly.¡±


    Vondaughed. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be disappointed.¡±


    ¡°Come on! Don¡¯t be shy,¡± Max grinned. ¡°It¡¯s okay to be honest sometimes. Same goes for me.¡±


    ¡°Ugh! Seriously? A sulking guy is just annoying,¡± Vonda teased yfully.


    ¡°Sulking guy? Who¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Hello! Someone suffering from amnesia?¡±


    Max burst outughing. ¡°I¡¯lle back to youter, okay?¡±


    Vonda changed her amused smile to an epting chuckle and nodded once.


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Finally, their conversation ended with Max¡¯s joyful exmation.


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    *

 The Other Side

    Rika stood silently behind the reception desk. Her hands were sped together while her eyes were narrowed as she looked straight ahead, fixed on the two people who were now entering the lobby.


    ¡°It¡¯s like I¡¯m invisible here. They don¡¯t even acknowledge me. Do they think I¡¯m more elusive than a supernatural being? Am I invisible to them?¡±


    Rika huffed as the two people she saw entered the elevator. Only when they turned around inside the elevator did Rika receive a wave from Vonda. It was just a moment before the elevator doors closed.


    Rika was really confused. ¡°This is what happens when someone falls in love. They forget the world.¡±


    Meanwhile, inside the elevator, slowly ascending through each floor, Vonda burst outughing, imagining Rika¡¯s irritated expression from earlier. To be honest, Vonda deliberately did not greet the receptionist. She was afraid that a brief interaction might lead to an unpleasant temptation.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°When I picked you upst Sunday night, she greeted me.¡±


    Vonda looked at Max. ¡°Really?¡±


    Max nodded.


    ¡°What did she say?¡±


    Max tried to remember. ¡°Honestly, it was just small talk. Just a friendly gesture, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Rika¡¯s small talk is usually just ¡®small¡¯,¡± Vonda quipped. ¡°It¡¯s better if you don¡¯t get involved with her. Let your life be more peaceful.¡±


    Not long after, the elevator came to a stop. The opening doors signaled their arrival at the desired floor. They both exited and walked to Vonda¡¯s apartment. As they entered, Vonda spoke.


    ¡°Wait a minute. Sit down; I¡¯ll change first.¡±


    Max sat down in the living room chair while Vonda went into her room. Left alone, Max decided to check his phone.


    Max thought briefly about how important the person who assembled his phone was. If nothing else, the phone could be used to distract from the silence he was currently feeling.


    Checking a few iing messages, Max unintentionally got lost in the activity. Until a few minutester, when Max¡¯s head was lowered and he was looking at his phone screen, he caught a different sight on the floor. It caused him to shift his focus.


    There was a pair of feet over there. As his gaze moved upward, Max¡¯s eyes settled on long calves, not even covered by a thread.


    Well¡­ Vonda tended to wear pants around the office rather than knee-length skirts. A wise choice, considering that many would rather look at her legs than her face.


    Huh?


    Max blinked. He suddenly lifted his head to find Vonda approaching with a distinctly different appearance.


    But¡­ her face seems to be pleasant as well.


    Vonda smiled at her homey appearance. The shorts and loose t-shirt she wore that afternoon gave her a rxed look. Her makeup had been removed, reced by a natural, makeup-free, and casually tied up hair clip on her head. Something Max saw for the first time. Eum maybe, this was the second first for Max.


    Remember about the very first first?


    Yes, of course, Max replied mentally.


    Lost in his own thoughts, Max was almost startled when Vonda spoke. She spoke in an inviting tone.


    ¡°Juste into the kitchen.¡±


    Max blinked again. He wanted to say something, but Vonda had already left. So, Max got up as well. He left his bag in the living room as he followed Vonda into the kitchen.


    Once there, Max saw Vonda opened the refrigerator door. She took out a clear box and showed it to him.


    ¡°Is one box enough or not?¡±


    Max grinned. He pulled out a chair near the kitchen ind and sat down. He reflexively took off his jacket and put it on another chair.


    ¡°I had a feeling earlier that you were going to give me one box. So, if you don¡¯t want to eat with me, that means you only wanted to fry mine.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes widened, but she chuckled amusedly. ¡°Guests have no manners, huh? Like I¡¯m just here to fry yours.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda brought out another box. She quickly went to the stove, heated some oil in a pan, then retrieved the forgotten frozen potatoes.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you had cooking oil,¡± Maxmented shortly after seeing Vonda throw five chicken thighs into the hot oil. ¡°I thought you fried chicken with kerosene or something.¡±


    Vonda turned around, leaned against the stove, and grinned. ¡°Kerosene is rare these days. The government suggests using natural gas. As if anyone would fry chicken with gas?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! That would be something.¡±


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Vonda looked at the refrigerator. ¡°If you¡¯re thirsty, just grab something from the fridge, okay? I¡¯m not used to entertaining like this. So, you¡¯re going to have to be proactive. If you wait for me to offer you a drink, you might die of thirst first.¡±


    ¡°No wonder,¡± Max said then. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting and waiting, you know? Uh¡­ the drinks never came.¡±


    While Vondaughed, Max did as she suggested. He stood up, rolled his shirt sleeves up to his elbows-because he was feeling a bit warm-and walked over to the refrigerator. He opened it and examined the contents.


    ¡°Ahem¡­ quite extensive,¡± Maxmented, observing every food item in it. ¡°From fruits to vegetables to chicken thighs.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like being hungry. Especially in the middle of the night. Ugh! It¡¯s really agonizing. So, I have to make sure that my food supply isplete. I¡¯m pretty diligent about shopping for ingredients, you know?


    Max grinned and took out a bottle of mineral water. He opened the cap and poured the contents into a ss. Then, after taking a red apple from the refrigerator and washing it in the sink, he returned to his seat.


    While waiting for Vonda to finish frying and preparing everything, Max engaged her in light conversation. Starting with trivial things.


    ¡°How long has that apple been in the fridge?¡±


    Vonda, who was flipping the fried chicken thighs, nced over. ¡°I think it¡¯s only been a few days. Why?¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem fresh anymore.¡±


    ¡°Oh, really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Unfortunately, Max¡¯s words did not convince Vonda. It was hard to believe, especially since he actually got up and opened the refrigerator door again. He took a second apple and enjoyed it. After finishing that one, oh¡­ Max took a third apple. And so on until the fifth apple. Or thest apple, to be exact.


    About forty minutester, Max got up and walked over to Vonda. It happened to coincide with her turning off the stove.


    ¡°I thought you weren¡¯t cooking because it took so long. I was really hungry.¡±


    ¡°Hungry? With five apples you¡¯ve wolfed down?¡± Vonda grinned. ¡°That shouldst me two days.¡±


    ¡°Not quite bnced by the chicken my mom gave me.¡±


    ¡°Wow! Thepensatory nature finally came out. Calctor mode is on.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Also¡­ It took me a while because I fried a lot. Not to mention the potatoes,¡± Vonda said as she grabbed arge te. ¡°Come help me. Don¡¯t just concentrate on eating.¡±


    Max did not object; he even followed Vonda, although he was not really doing anything. He just watched as Vonda arranged all the fried food on two separate tes-one for the chicken thighs and one for the potatoes.


    ¡°We can eat while we watch,¡± Vonda suggested after everything was neatly arranged on the tes. She lifted her face and looked at Max with slightly narrowed eyes. ¡°I have a good movie.¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± Max eximed, his eyes shining. ¡°You¡¯re such a gracious host.¡±


    Dividing the tasks, Vonda brought a bottle of soda and two sses, while Max picked up the two different tes. They walked into the living room and it was not long before all the dishes were on the table.


    Max could not wait to sit down. He grabbed a tissue and wiped his hands while Vonda went to the TV. She grabbed the remote and asked, ¡°What do you want to watch? A new movie or an old one?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. I don¡¯t care. The only thing I care about is these foods,¡± Max replied, causing Vonda to turn and look at him.


    Vonda watched as Max picked up a small te that was already there. He poured some chili sauce on it and dipped a piece of French fry in it. Then the fry disappeared into his mouth.


    Chuckling, Vonda, who was actually unsure which movie to choose, ended up ying one at random. She did not have time to think about all the movie titles on Netflix. Eventually, the title ¡°It¡± appeared on the TV screen.


    Vonda put the remote control on the table and sat down next to Max. He watched the TV screen, furrowing his brow as the sound of the movie began to echo.


    Vonda wiped her hands and enjoyed the first piece of French fry. She seemed rxed, but it was a different story for Max, who seemed frozen as he watched the opening scene of the movie.


    Max blinked. ¡°What movie is this, Von?¡±


    Vonda reached out and grabbed a piece of chicken thigh. ¡°It.¡±


    ¡°It?¡± Max turned to her. ¡°What genre?¡±


    Nonchntly, Vonda answered with ease. ¡°Horror.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes instantly widened and he eximed, ¡°Change it!¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Max¡¯s face seemed to harden as he spoke. ¡°As if life isn¡¯t scary enough, you want to add horror movies to it?¡±


    Vonda stared nkly for a moment. Then she burst outughing.


    ¡°Are you really scared?¡±


    And Max¡¯s face turned redder than the color of the chili sauce.


    Damn it!


    *

 Established Comfort 1

    ¡°That¡¯s not being scared, that¡¯s being realistic.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Try using your brain for once.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°If you know it¡¯s scary, why are you still watching?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Watching is for entertainment.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°How can we be entertained if what we¡¯re watching is scary?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    At some point, the chicken leg that had been in Vonda¡¯s hand found its way back to the table. A wise move, as the chicken thigh would probably have fallen onto the chair if Vonda had not put it down. She wasughing uncontrobly now, clutching her stomach. Every defense Max put up seemed to only increase herughter.


    ¡°You¡¯re going to choke on a chicken bone, just you wait.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda tried to stop herughter for a moment, but it was so hard. Especially when she saw Max¡¯s flushed face. She was not sure if he was embarrassed or frightened by the movie ¡°It¡± he had paused. Instead of stopping, she burst outughing again.


    ¡°Vonda!¡± Max growled. ¡°Are you trying to annoy me?¡±


    Vonda struggled to control herughter and finally seeded, though asional giggles still escaped.


    ¡°Me? Annoy you?¡± Vonda put on an innocent expression. ¡°Howe?¡±


    Max frowned. ¡°How can you not see that you¡¯re annoying?¡±


    Max knew Vonda was teasing him. It was really getting on his nerves.


    ¡°Anyway, just change the movie.¡±


    Vonda shifted in her seat and showed a teasing expression that made Max¡¯s stomach turn.


    ¡°You said before you didn¡¯t care about the movie. The only thing you care about is these foods. Now that I¡¯m ying ¡®It,¡¯ you suddenly want to change it?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened, but it did not intimidate Vonda. In fact, it seemed to have the opposite effect. She found it even more amusing.


    My stomach is really hurting fromughing so much. Hahaha!


    ¡°Not caring doesn¡¯t mean you have to get a horror movie.¡±


    Max¡¯s hand pointed to the TV screen, which was showing a scene of Georgie Denbrough reaching into a storm drain, his paper boat being swept away by rainwater.


    ¡°Look at that, just look at that. Where¡¯s the logic in that? Do parents let their kids y in the rain like that when it rains hard?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Enough. Vonda¡¯sughter exploded again. This only made Max frown more.


    ¡°That¡¯s not logical, is it? And this kid, what is he thinking? There is a clown in the drain? It¡¯s not logical. He should have found it strange.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God!¡± eximed Vonda.


    Then, in the midst of the uncontrobleughter, Vonda¡¯s hand patted and tapped Max¡¯s hand. Regardless of Max¡¯s expression, or even her own at that moment, Vondaughed.


    ¡°Max, he¡¯s just a little kid. Don¡¯t even expect him to think logically, he doesn¡¯t even know what logical thinking is. Hahaha!¡±


    Max snorted.


    ¡°That¡¯s the job of parents, Von.¡± Max¡¯s hand pointed at the TV screen again. ¡°And that older brother of his, he¡¯s grown up. Instead of keeping his little brother from ying in the rain, he even makes paper boats for him. Isn¡¯t that stupid of the older brother?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes were moist from tears that had formed in the corners of her eyes. When she opened her eyes, Max¡¯s face seemed blurry in her vision.


    ¡°Besides, the neighbor saw the kid bending over, but didn¡¯t ask or anything, just looked. Really? Juss looked? Oh, my God. She really doesn¡¯t care at all.¡±


    ¡°Max,e on.¡±


    ¡°No no no. You have to listen to me. This movie makes no sense. Why am I saying this? Because even when I was a kid, the neighbors used to scold me for ying toote at night.¡±


    Vonda wiped away a tear and asked with difficulty, ¡°Oh really?¡±


    Max was still upset, but he answered Vonda¡¯s question anyway. He nodded.


    ¡°They¡¯d say things like, ¡®Hey, difficult child. It¡¯s past your bedtime. Go home now. Your parents will look everywhere if you go missing.''¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°And if I didn¡¯te home, they would chase me until I ran home.¡±


    Vonda burst into moreughter when she heard Max¡¯s answer. For a while, Max seemed to let Vonda enjoy herughter. He chose to remain silent, his mouth closed as he rested his chin on his chest.


    ¡°Your neighbors have a big mouth too, huh? How can they say that to a little kid? Hahaha!¡±


    Max sighed. ¡°What they said was actually true. From a very young age, I was often called a ¡®difficult child,''¡± Max continued. ¡°Because my parents had a hard time conceiving me. It took my mom years to conceive me.¡±


    Vonda nodded in agreement. She remembered the conversation she and Riley had had the other day. She was not surprised at all when Max said that.


    ¡°My neighbors, on average, have mouths like firecrackers. That¡¯s why my mom likes living there. Even now. Even though Mom doesn¡¯t have a baby or a toddler grandchild, she still goes to the local health center every month. She volunteers there.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Her words are like pinpoint fireworks. They hit the mark, but well¡­ they¡¯re not poisonous. They gossip the loudest about celebrities. But that¡¯s probably because the celebrities themselves are willing to be gossiped about, right?¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Well, ever since I was little, I¡¯ve been used to hearing those cruelments. What can you do? When Mom is busy, it¡¯s thedies who help take care of me.¡±


    Vonda¡¯sughter slowly turned to a smile this time. ¡°So, you have a lot of moms?¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s absolutely true.¡±


    Much like Vonda, Max¡¯s face slowly transformed. From looking annoyed, he now appeared to be smiling.


    ¡°When I arrive home, I crack the car window open. From the entrance of theplex to my house, I¡¯ll be called out. Hahaha.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Coming home, Max? Wow! The troublesome child is back! Max, do you still remember the way home?¡± Heughed. ¡°Hahaha. And you know¡­ it seems like all the women in the world want to have a child as mischievous as me. No wonder those mothers are fond of me.¡±


    Vonda suddenly mmed her head back against the sofa, resting on its backrest with her hands on her stomach.


    ¡°Ugh!¡± Vonda groaned. ¡°My stomach feels queasy. Like I¡¯m about to throw up.¡±


    *

 Established Comfort 2

    Max mimicked Vonda¡¯s position. He rested his head against the back of the chair and stared at the ceiling just like she was doing next to him.


    ¡°I feel like throwing up sometimes too, but well¡­ what can you do. That¡¯s just how my life is.¡±


    It was by no means a form ofmentation. It could be more urately described as veiled joyful satire.


    ¡°It must be nice to have so many moms.¡±


    ¡°Hehehe.¡± Max turned slightly. ¡°Don¡¯t you have many moms?¡±


    Vonda shook her head once. ¡°No, not at all. Besides, we¡¯re really different. You were a difficult child. Well, I think I was an easy child.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Vonda also turned and gave Max a squinted look. ¡°I heard the story that I appeared in my mom¡¯s womb three weeks after the wedding. Just imagine.¡±


    ¡°Woah!¡± Max was taken aback and then instantly gave a thumbs-up. ¡°Impressive!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Yeah, that¡¯s how it is. That¡¯s why people say that my mom¡¯s reception was actually nned to be canceled.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°At the time, my parents¡¯ reception was supposed to be held a month after their wedding. But then my mom started feeling nauseous because she was pregnant with me. But canceling it would have been a waste of the money spent. That¡¯s why due to that, there were rumors that my mom was pregnant before the wedding.¡±


    ¡°It seems like our living environments are different, huh?¡±


    Vonda chuckled, but she also nodded. She acknowledged Max¡¯s statement.


    ¡°My living environment is a bit toxic, indeed. Sometimes, my mom gets stressed out too, but yeah. When things get out of hand, they get dealt with by my mom. My mom says that living on the outskirts of the capital is tough, even a gentle tongue needs to be trained to be tough.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Especially since we¡¯re arge family-¡±


    ¡°Arge family?¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Vonda blinked and looked at Max. ¡°I have five younger siblings.¡±


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s super impressive!¡± Max eximed in awe.


    ¡°Hahaha! Because of that, my mom is often told by the neighbors. They say she¡¯s really fond of having kids. She should have used birth control.¡±


    Max chuckled.


    ¡°My mom doesn¡¯t care. She usually says something like that,¡± Vonda continued after taking a deep breath. ¡°I have sex with my own husband. I have children with my own husband. But why are you all so busymenting on our lives? Why are you the one gets upset?¡±


    This time Max burst outughing. Whether he liked it or not, he had to get up from his rxed position. ¡°I think I know where your traitse from now.¡±


    A grin appeared on Vonda¡¯s face. ¡°From my mother, huh?¡±


    ¡°Seems like it. Yeah.¡±


    Vonda let out a long breath, then let the grin slowly fade into a gentle smile.


    ¡°Speaking of my mom¡­ I really feel like going back.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s sincere statement made Max smile. ¡°Then go back. Is your home far away?¡±


    Vonda shook her head. ¡°Not far. Quite close. In Marigold Bay.¡±


    ¡°Wow! Just a stone¡¯s throw away.¡±


    Vonda nced. ¡°Whose underwear was thrown so far that it reached Marigold Bay? Superman¡¯s underwear?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Well¡­ what I meant was, I thought your parents lived somewhere far away. Like another ind or another country.¡±


    Vonda snorted. ¡°Actually, I¡¯m tired from work, which makes me reluctant to go back. But I have to go back soon.¡±


    ¡°For an event?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°My younger sister is getting engaged.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Engaged?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°She¡¯s getting married to her boyfriend from junior high.¡±


    Max was stunned by this information. ¡°Wow! How many years have they been together?¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Years,¡± Vonda answered casually.


    Max secretly looked at Vonda. He tried to watch her aura. The atmosphere suddenly became quiet. Finally, one of Vonda¡¯s hands waved briefly in front of her face.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at me with that pitiful look. I really don¡¯t feel sad or anything because my younger sister is taking this step.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ I don¡¯t feel sorry for you. It¡¯s just that¡­¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips formed a smile. Still on the back of the sofa, she turned her face to Max.


    ¡°Modern girls don¡¯t use the term ¡®steps.¡¯ Destiny is already arranged. So, if you want toin, me God.¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m happy for my sister¡¯s engagement,¡± Vonda sighed. ¡°Besides, what older sister wouldn¡¯t be happy to see her younger sister happy? And that¡¯s what Kania thinks, too.¡±


    ¡°Your sister?¡± Max asked, referring to the name Kania Vonda had mentioned.


    Vonda confirmed with a nod. ¡°Actually, she was supposed to get marriedst year. Well¡­ although she didn¡¯t tell me, I often heard her and her boyfriend Yale talking about marriage. But Kania postponed it because of me.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°I know. I guess she wanted to see me get married first. But, oh my. Thest rtionship I thought would work out ended up falling apart. Especially since Kania was really excited back then when my family and Andrew met and discussed the engagement.¡±


    Max fell silent.


    ¡°That is why when I broke up with Andrew yesterday, I told him to get married first. I couldn¡¯t possibly hold back his happiness out of selfishness.¡±


    ¡°She definitely doesn¡¯t see you as selfish. She just wants you to be happy. She¡¯s afraid your happiness might be tainted by seeing her happiness.¡±


    Max¡¯s words made Vonda suddenly silent for a moment. Then she just looked into Max¡¯s eyes.


    There was a sincere warmth in Max¡¯s eyes, as sincere as the words he had just spoken.


    Vonda smiled. ¡°Maybe that¡¯s why I reassured Kania¡­ that her happiness couldn¡¯t possibly make me sad. How could an older sister be sad because her younger sister is happy? That¡¯s impossible, right?¡±


    A question that made Max stop. He realized it was just a rhetorical question.


    Something about Vonda touched Max. An admiration that made him proud. Realizing that despite her seemingly entric nature, there was a kind of maturity that other girls rarely possessed. So, it wasn¡¯t surprising that Max shook his head once in response to her smile.


    ¡°Impossible.¡±


    *

 Start of Day

    One bright morning, Vonda smiled at the guard on duty, then walked into the office. Feeling refreshed, she walked with her mind wandering.


    It¡¯s still Tuesday, but why does it feel as refreshing as a weekend? Hm¡­ even though yesterday was quite exhausting. But¡­


    ¡°Hehehe.¡±


    Unconsciously, Vondaughed. She did not know why her mind was drifting back to yesterday¡¯s event. When she and Max had fried chicken in her unit.


    Frankly, Vonda had not expected the chicken dinner tost that long. Much longer than Vonda had originally anticipated.


    At first, Vonda thought they would eatfortably while watching TV. Yeah¡­ maybe it would take an hour or two at the most. But guess what? Max ended up leaving at eleven in the evening. Something that puzzled Vonda.


    How could it take so long?


    Vonda stopped in front of the elevator, paying no attention to the other employees who were also waiting for the elevator. She was lost in her own thoughts. After the impromptu venting session, Vonda finally gave in to Max¡¯s suggestion. That is, to change the movie.


    Thinking about it, whether she liked it or not, Vonda burst outughing again.


    Oh, my goodness. Such a big and tall guy. Who would have thought that he¡¯s actually a coward? Hahaha.


    The amusement had not quite worn off, however, when Vonda remembered the backup movie she¡¯d chosen. Kung Fu Panda.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Several pairs of eyes immediately turned to Vonda, who suddenly burst outughing herself. They exchanged nces with furrowed brows, as if they collectively found her behavior disturbing.


    ¡°Ahem!¡±


    Vonda cleared her throat. She quickly brushed her hair back around her ears to cover the embarrassment and awkwardness caused by her suddenughter.


    Oh, my goodness. They must think I¡¯m crazy.


    Trying topose herself, Vonda stepped into the open elevator door. Just as she turned around, the source of her morningughter entered.


    Max walked in. Vonda remembered his anxious expression. And Vonda burst outughing again.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Now there was Max, looking at Vonda in confusion. With a furrowed brow, he approached and stood next to Vonda. He nced over and noticed that Vonda was struggling to hold back herughter with one hand.


    ¡°Ahem!¡±


    Vonda cleared her throat again.


    ¡°Good morning, Sir.¡±


    Max looked at her in confusion.


    ¡°Good morning, Ma¡¯am,¡± Max replied casually. ¡°You seem very happy today, Ma¡¯am?¡±


    Vonda pursed her lips, trying to hold back the amusement that was about to turn intoughter. She took a deep breath. It was enough to calm herughter and make it moreposed.


    ¡°Uh¡­ maybe it¡¯s the effect of yesterday, Sir.¡±


    Max blinked, his forehead wrinkling even more. Instinctively, he turned and asked, ¡°Yesterday?¡±


    Vonda rolled her eyes, looking a little embarrassed. ¡°Uh¡­¡±


    Oops, she slipped up again.


    ¡°The pre-order schedule for my favorite shoes opened, Sir.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Max nodded in acknowledgement.


    The elevator door opened, and with the courtesy of an employee, Vonda gestured for Max to step out first.


    ¡°Please, Sir.¡±


    Vonda then followed Max¡¯s footsteps from behind. She remained silent the entire way until they entered a room with a closed door.


    Vonda kept walking, assuming that Max would go straight to his office. But she was wrong, for what happened next was that Max chose to sit at his desk.


    ¡°You wereughing at me, weren¡¯t you?¡±


    At first Vonda wanted to deny it, but oh my goodness. She had been so careful to keep her amusement in check, and now Max himself was the one causing it. Her mind spontaneously recalled the moment.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened immediately. ¡°It¡¯s true, right? You wereughing at me back there.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Max raised his hand and pointed at Vonda, who was stillughing heartily.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°You really went too far. A horror movie can make you that happy?¡±


    Vonda¡¯sughter escted. In fact, she started pounding on the desk, unable to contain the overwhelming ticklish sensation.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, Max. It¡¯s just¡­¡± Vonda took a deep breath. ¡°¡­ I just didn¡¯t expect it, you know?¡±


    Max¡¯s expression immediately turned to annoyance.


    ¡°You¡¯re a big and tall guy, and your name is as cool as it gets.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes rolledzily. He could already sense the direction of Vonda¡¯s conversation.


    ¡°Why would you be afraid of a horror movie?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah¡­ Go ahead andugh to your heart¡¯s content,¡± Max said with a raised eyebrow. He could bet that this horror movie joke would not stop for a long time. He was willing to bet that Vonda would keep pestering him about it for at least a week.


    Oh, damn it.


    ¡°Hang in there¡­ hang in there¡­¡±


    Max patted his chest repeatedly.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay if I can make you this happy. I¡¯ll consider it a good deed.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. You¡¯re too much.¡±


    ¡°Well, because it¡¯s not often that I see youughing so heartily in the morning.¡± Max nodded once. ¡°No problem. I sacrifice myself in body and soul.¡±


    Vonda stoppedughing and quickly reced it with a broad smile. ¡°But even without the horror movie prank¡­ honestly, I¡¯m genuinely happy this morning because the pre-order schedule for my favorite shoes has opened.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes flickered. It was clear that there was a hint of doubt in his eyes. A hint of doubt that Vonda was more than willing to dispel. She immediately hit the power button on theputer. She addressed Max as she did so.


    ¡°Look here. I¡¯ll show you.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes went from Vonda to theputer. Swiftly typing on the keyboard, Vonda brought up a web page. Adjusting the angle of the screen slightly, she pointed it at Max and showed him the web page.


    ¡°Here¡¯s the pre-order for those shoes I mentioned,¡± Vonda pointed out. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s been open sincest night, but I haven¡¯t ced an order yet. The pre-order closes at noon today.¡±


    Nonchntly, but in reality, Max unconsciously crossed his arms over his chest, his eyes fixed on the images on the screen.


    ¡°Why haven¡¯t you ordered yet?¡± Max asked tly. ¡°Don¡¯t you have the money?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s bottom lip twitched for a moment. ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t have the money. Just so you know,¡± she continued. ¡°I always set aside twenty percent of my sry for shopping. So, it¡¯s not like I¡¯m running out of money for shopping.¡±


    This time Max snorted with a hint of derision.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t ordered anything because I don¡¯t have the money. Quite the opposite. I have quite a bit of money because I didn¡¯t shopst month, and in fact, the new shoes I bought when I went shopping with your mother yesterday were bought by your mom. So, practically speaking, my shopping budget is still intact.


    There seemed to be some new information that made Max¡¯s eyes widen.


    ¡°My mom bought you shoes? Didn¡¯t you say yesterday that Mom only gave you options?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, kind of. Your Mom paid for them.¡± Vonda nodded. ¡°I wanted to refuse, by the way. But Mom insisted on paying. Well¡­ it does feel a little awkward.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t refuse,¡± Max said quickly.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Vonda blinked. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°If Mom wants to give you something, don¡¯t say no. Mama might get sad.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Vonda murmured. ¡°Anything?¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Anything.¡± But his eyes widened again. ¡°Don¡¯t think Mom will give me to you, though.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡± Vondaughed. ¡°Hey, haven¡¯t you forgotten? Mom already called me the future daughter-inw.¡±


    ¡°Ew!¡± Max made a face and blinked once. ¡°That was just a joke.¡±


    Vonda smiled and returned to the subject at hand. ¡°Back to the shoes,¡± she said then. ¡°Now I¡¯m torn between buying two pairs, three pairs, or just one that¡¯s a little more expensive.¡±


    Max looked back at theputer screen. ¡°Which one do you want to buy?¡±


    Looking at the screen while her finger deftly scrolled the mouse, Vonda let out a soft sigh.


    ¡°Um¡­ I¡¯m not sure. They all look beautiful to me.¡±


    ¡°As beautiful as the shoes are, they¡¯re still meant to be on your feet.¡±


    Vonda lookedzily at Max. ¡°They say the right shoes will lead us to the right person.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. That¡¯s great marketing.¡±


    Whatever Max said was like a passing breeze in Vonda¡¯s ears. Instead of enjoying Max¡¯s words, Vonda tried to concentrate on the shoe pictures on the screen.


    Ugh!


    Vonda was almost overwhelmed by all the beautiful shoe pictures. There were many styles with different types of heels and captivating colors.


    ¡°Stop!¡±


    A sudden exmation from Max startled Vonda. Unconsciously, she stopped moving her finger on the mouse. With a puzzled look, Vonda turned to him.


    ¡°What?¡±


    Max¡¯s hand pointed to a shoe picture on the screen. ¡°Those look good on you.¡±


    Vonda immediately shifted her gaze to where Max was pointing. A pair of shiny ck ankle-strap heels with crisscrossing straps on the back caught her eye.


    ¡°Um.¡±


    Vonda narrowed her eyes as she looked at the shoe. She tilted her head slightly to the side.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never worn shoes with straps like that before,¡± Vonda whispered softly. ¡°Do you think it suits me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it does. Your feet are slender. They¡¯ll look great with those straps.¡±


    Vonda turned with a skeptical look. ¡°You really think so?¡±


    ¡°Trust me,¡± Max said confidently. ¡°You have beautiful feet. Long and graceful. Wearing this kind of shoe will make you even more beautiful.¡±


    Vonda fell silent. This time, suspicion flickered in her eyes as she looked at Max, and she asked in a curious tone.


    ¡°Are you secretly looking at my feet?¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    Caught off guard by such a question, Max stammered. He blinked and seemed a little embarrassed.


    ¡°Are you a foot fetishist?¡± Vonda used yfully, and this time, without holding back, she pointed her index finger at Max.


    ¡°Come on,¡± Max snapped, grabbing Vonda¡¯s index finger and pulling it down. ¡°I¡¯m not a foot fetishist. It¡¯s just that the other day there was a girl who was so confident that she sent me a photo of her feet.¡±


    Vonda paused for a moment before breaking into a cheeky grin. ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Forgot, huh?¡± teased Max.


    ¡°Sorry,¡± Vonda said with a hint of embarrassment. ¡°Besides, I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d actually seen the photo.¡±


    ¡°Like I didn¡¯t see it. The photo automatically popped up on my phone,¡± Max grumbled.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. But¡­¡± Something crossed Vonda¡¯s mind. ¡°You said my feet were nice, um¡­¡± Her gaze changed. ¡°Does that mean you don¡¯t like my face?¡±


    A question that brought a grin to Max¡¯s face. A mischievous gleam appeared in his eyes.


    ¡°You just figured that out now?¡±


    Vonda growled, especially when she saw Max immediately get up and rush to his own office, closing the door behind him, leaving Vonda¡¯s muttering echoing in the air.


    ¡°Coward!¡±


    Meanwhile, Max¡¯sughter echoed in his office.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    *

 Spontaneous Purpose

    ¡°Oh my God! I never thought you¡¯d join the shoe pre-order.¡±


    Vonda smiled proudly and pretended to flip her hair. Although it was quite obvious that her hair was neatly pulled back that day. Vonda winked at Sarah.


    ¡°Well, of course I joined the shoe pre-order. Because if I joined the lingerie pre-order, I wouldn¡¯t know who to wear it for. So, I¡¯d rather do a shoe pre-order instead. At least I don¡¯t waste money. Wasting money is the devil¡¯s friend, you know. Do you want to be friends with the devil by being friends with me?¡±


    ¡°Oh,e on.¡± Sarah chuckled at Vonda¡¯s banter. ¡°It¡¯s just a shoe style with straps. It¡¯s not like you¡¯re intoplicated straps of any kind.¡±


    ¡°Oh ho, I see. Did you forget I have those strappy lingerie things? Like fis ones?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡± Sarah yfully tapped Vonda¡¯s forehead with her phone, then handed it back after looking at the shoe pictures Vonda was interested in. ¡°So, what about the fate of the lingerie?¡±


    Vonda grabbed the phone with a confused look at Sarah. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Well, a while ago it seemed like you left your lingerie with some guy, right?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s happy expression from sessfully securing a spot for the high-heeled strappy shoes vanished momentarily. It was reced by a somber and annoyed look.


    ¡°Are you really that heartless to ruin someone¡¯s mood?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. No, seriously, Von, I asked. Besides, you have to have some nerve to wear that lingerie, remember?¡± Sarah said as she pushed aside her now empty lunch te. ¡°You practically wrestled that girl with the green highlighter hair for it.¡±


    Vonda frowned for a moment, thinking, before her eyes widened in realization.


    ¡°Oh. Right. Exactly. But I don¡¯t think she was a girl. She looked more like a young teenager with unstable emotions. It was probably the first time she bought this kind of lingerie, too.¡±


    Sarah chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s not like it was your first time either. But I can¡¯t help but think about you wearing that lingerie to the CEO¡¯s wedding reception. Hahaha! It¡¯s like you were preparing to tease some unfortunate guy that night.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lower lip poked out briefly. ¡°I was just being silly that night. I had no intention of teasing any guy.¡±


    ¡°Well, but¡­¡± Sarah¡¯s eyes scanned her yfully. ¡°You did tease a guy, didn¡¯t you? Especially since that guy was¡­¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened considerably. That made Sarah stopped her speech and change it to a teasing chuckle.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, I want to ask,¡± Sarah continued. ¡°After that incident, and then the two of you working in the same office¡­ did you not feel awkward or embarrassed?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ um¡­ um¡­¡±


    ¡°What I mean is¡­ oh my God! That must have been so embarrassing, right? You tried to get away from him and, well¡­ you ended up meeting him again. And in the same office. And he became your temporary boss to boot. Could there be a more embarrassing scenario than this?¡±


    Vonda rolled her eyes several times, clearly annoyed.


    If you only knew what¡¯s going on between him and me right now, Sarah. I¡¯m absolutely sure. Awkward would be a very generous way to describe our rtionship at this point.


    ¡°So,¡± Sarah continued, ¡°you two don¡¯t feel ufortable or anything? Having to see each other eight hours a day, five days a week?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hand swirled her melon juice with the straw, ying with the foam on top. asionally she scooped up the foam with the tip of the straw and took a sip.


    ¡°Um.¡± Vonda hummed as she savored the sensation of the melon juice foam, experiencing the strange taste on her tongue. ¡°How can I put this? Maybe because we¡¯re both mature adults? I mean¡­ we both know it happened because I was a little crazy. Everyone also knows that thew doesn¡¯t apply to crazy people. So, we kind of mutually decided to let it go. Um¡­ more or less.¡±


    Sarah blinked quickly, her mouth agape, looking stunned.


    ¡°No wonder people often pretend to be crazy.¡±


    Sarah¡¯s astonishment grew. She could not fathom the casualness of Vonda¡¯s words.


    ¡°Wow! Unbelievable.¡±


    Vonda let out a long sigh. ¡°Besides¡­ we agreed to put the past behind us. The incident wasn¡¯t good, but you can¡¯t really say it was one party¡¯s fault. Both he and I were at fault, by the way. So neither of us feels wronged.¡±


    Sarah scratched her head. ¡°Seems like the definition of ¡®mature¡¯ has shifted around here.¡±


    ¡°The bottom line is¡­ our rtionship is fine.¡± Taking another deep breath, Vonda seemed to suddenly realize something. ¡°It¡¯s even better than I expected.¡±


    *


    Max had juste out of the bathroom with a white towel wrapped around his waist. He also had a small towel to dry his hair, which was now slung over his shoulder. Opening the closet, Max pulled out a loose white t-shirt and cotton shorts that came up to his knees. Of course, he was also wearing underwear.


    ¡°As if I¡¯d wear shorts without underwear. Everything would fly everywhere. Hahaha!¡±


    Five minutester, Max was fully dressed. Afterbing his hair, he grabbed his cell phone and rushed out.


    On his way to the kitchen, Max opened the refrigerator, took out a box of frozen pizza, and heated it briefly. He put four slices on a te, poured some sauce on them, and went into the living room.


    With a slice of pizza in his right hand and the TV remote in his left, Max was ready to enjoy dinner. But just as he took a bite of the pizza, his phone started ringing.


    Max put the pizza and the remote back on the table. Wiping his hands with a couple of tissues, he picked up his phone and answered the call after swallowing the piece of pizza in his mouth.


    ¡°Vonda?¡±


    Max called out Vonda¡¯s name uncertainly, wondering why she was calling him all of a sudden that night.


    ¡°Max, oh my goodness. I¡¯m so d you answered.¡±


    Max furrowed his brow and decided to turn off the television. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Can you help me?¡±


    ¡°Help you?¡± Max asked, ncing at the wall clock, which already showed 10 pm. ¡°With what?¡±


    In his mind, Max ran through several possible scenarios for the kind of help Vonda might need at that moment. Had her car broken down on the way and she needed help? Was she in pain and needed to go to the hospital? But Vonda¡¯s answer did not match his assumptions.


    ¡°My sink is clogged. I already told Rika, and she said the maintenance guys have all gone home. I should wait until tomorrow morning.¡±


    Thunk!Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Max¡¯s face fell immediately. He spontaneously blurted out, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m a plumber?¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice sounded surprised on the other end.


    ¡°You can¡¯t fix a clogged sink?¡± Vonda continued. ¡°Um¡­ well, I¡¯m sorry if that¡¯s the case. It¡¯s just that you were the only one I thought of.¡±


    Huh?


    ¡°I thought you could do it.¡±


    ¡°Um!¡± Max cleared his throat. ¡°Well¡­ I didn¡¯t mean to say I couldn¡¯t fix a clogged sink. It¡¯s not like only chefs can cook. And even though I¡¯m not a plumber, well¡­ I can fix a clogged sink, if that¡¯s what it is.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s sigh of relief was audible. ¡°Thank God for that. So, can youe over now?¡±


    ¡°I can. I¡¯ll be on my way soon.¡±


    ¡°Oh! Okay-okay. I¡¯ll wait.¡±


    ¡°Um, Von.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Max squinted as he replied, ¡°Helping out doesn¡¯t mean my help is free, you know?¡±


    Vonda burst outughing on the other end. ¡°Got it, Commander!¡±


    After Vonda¡¯s call ended, Max quickly put the pizza back in the fridge. He immediately rushed to get ready, thinking it was alreadyte. Max just changed his shorts into a pair of long pants and grabbed a jacket.


    About twenty minutester, Max was standing in front of Vonda¡¯s apartment door. He waited for the door to open after ringing the doorbell twice. Shortly after, the door opened to reveal Vonda¡¯s smiling face.


    ¡°Hey, the plumber¡¯s here.¡±


    Max smiled as he entered. Vonda closed the door and followed Max, who had entered first.


    ¡°Which sink is clogged?¡± Max asked. ¡°The kitchen one?¡±


    Next to Max, Vonda shook her head. ¡°Not the kitchen sink, the sink in my bathroom.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ the back bathroom?¡±


    Vonda shook her head again. ¡°The bathroom in my room.¡±


    Of course, this answer left Max momentarily stunned.


    She wants me to go to her private bathroom?


    While this question echoed in his mind, Max found Vonda, lookingpletely nonchnt, pulling his hand. She led him to her room. It was then that Max¡¯s mind began to wander.


    Oh God. This scene seems promising. A girl inviting a guy to her room. But where does it end?


    Vonda pointed to the bathroom door.


    ¡°Over there.¡±


    So, the ending is in the bathroom. Oh, my goodness.


    *

 Spark Trigger 1

    At first, Vonda thought it was just taking a little longer than usual for the water in the sink to drain. But after two minutes had passed, with the foaming face wash still covering her face, Vonda noticed that the stagnant water was almostpletely motionless.


    ¡°Should I put in some fish or something? Seriously! It¡¯s turning into a pond.¡±


    So, Vonda rushed to the kitchen and rinsed her face in the sink. Then she decided to call Rika right away and ask for a technician to fix her clogged sink.


    ¡°Oh dear. Why all of a sudden? The plumber went home already.¡±


    Vonda blinked. ¡°Wait, Rika. You think I nned to have my sink clogged and then called you?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! The plumbers are already off duty, Ma¡¯am. Maybe tomorrow night when you get back from work.¡±


    Vonda tried to ept this. She would have to wait until tomorrow evening while the water continued to pool. But every time Vonda went to the bathroom, whether to use the toilet or for any other reason, the standing water bothered her. Without realizing it, Vonda called Max.


    Oh, my goodness. Why did I call him?


    When she realized it, Vonda was about to hang up the phone. She also thought of an excuse in case Max asked why she had called him.


    Just say that you pressed his number by mistake.


    But just as Vonda was about to hang up, it turned out that Max had already picked up. So, she had no choice but to take the call. About thirty minutester, Vonda¡¯s apartment doorbell rang. Ignoring the knee-length romper she was wearing, Vonda quickly opened the door and met Max with a casual expression.


    ¡°Oh, the plumber¡¯s here.¡±


    Vonda greeted yfully as she found Max standing at her door. He dressed in long pants and a jacket.


    In response to Vonda¡¯s yful greeting, Max merely grinned before stepping inside. Seeing that, Vonda closed the door and followed in Max¡¯s footsteps.


    ¡°Which sink is clogged? The kitchen?¡±


    Taking a seat next to Max, Vonda shook her head. ¡°Not the kitchen sink, the bathroom sink in my room.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ the one in the back bathroom?¡±


    Vonda shook her head again.


    ¡°It¡¯s the sink in my own room,¡± Vonda exined.


    For a moment, Vonda bit her bottom lip. A thought crossed her mind and momentarily stunned her.


    This is kind of rude, isn¡¯t it? Inviting a guy into my room. Oh my, Vonda. You should have thought about that before you impulsively called him.


    Vonda took a deep breath, hoping that Max would not interpret her actions in a certain way.


    I hope he doesn¡¯t think I¡¯m trying to flirt with him or anything like that.


    But Vonda¡¯s worry escted. She just realized that she was wearing a knee-length romper.


    Oh no! I should have changed earlier.


    Vonda tried to put on a thick-skinned face and pretend that what she was doing was no big deal. She reached for Max¡¯s hand and invited him to follow her into the bedroom. She tried to calm herself, because for some reason she suddenly felt ufortable, almost embarrassed.


    When they reached the bedroom, Vonda¡¯s sense of difort intensified, making her feel like she was short of breath. But once again she tried to act casual as she pointed to the bathroom door.


    ¡°Over there.¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s take a look at that clogged sink.¡±


    Max¡¯s expression genuinely made Vondaugh, and she momentarily forgot her difort.


    At the sink, Max leaned forward with his arms crossed over his chest. Leaning slightly against the wall, Vonda asked, ¡°How¡¯s it going? Can you fix it?¡±


    The question immediately drew a yful response from Max. He turned his narrowed eyes to her and countered, ¡°Doubting my abilities, huh? I mean, not only can I fix a clogged sink, I could even unclog your clogged brain.¡±


    Vonda grinned. ¡°Getting all insulted there, huh?¡±


    ¡°Tch!¡±


    Max clicked his tongue and without a word reached for the zipper of his jacket, which was zipped all the way up. Vonda¡¯s eyes widened in anticipation, especially as Max began to remove his ck jacket one arm at a time, revealing the thin white t-shirt clinging to his body.


    Oh my, why not just take off the whole shirt?


    Vonda swallowed, then blinked as Max handed her the jacket. As she approached the sink, she asked, ¡°Where are the tools?¡±


    Vonda suddenly realized. ¡°Wait.¡±


    As Max turned his head, Vonda ran out, taking his jacket with her. At that moment, Max muttered to himself.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t usually do this, does she? Invite a guy over while she¡¯s wearing a onesie? Not safe at all. And then there¡¯s the whole going into the bedroom thing.¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Max shook his head.


    ¡°You¡¯re lucky I¡¯m a decent guy, Von. Tsk tsk tsk.¡±


    A short timeter Vonda returned. This time not with Max¡¯s jacket in her hands, but with a box of plumbing tools that were avable in all the apartment units. This box had been neatly stored in Vonda¡¯s kitchen cupboard. She had not expected that these tools would actually be used.


    Max grabbed the box. ¡°By the way, is the payment ready? I don¡¯t mean to be nosy, but it¡¯s a sin to withhold someone¡¯s sweat before giving them their payment, you know.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha, don¡¯t worry. You fix this, and I¡¯ll prepare the payment. What do you want?¡±


    Max crouched down, put the box down and opened it, examining the tools inside.


    ¡°What do you have here? So, I can choose.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ if your mother¡¯s fried chicken was still around, I¡¯d be frying it now.¡±


    Max snorted. ¡°That was a week ago. I doubt there¡¯s any fried chicken left.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡± Vonda chuckled. ¡°I can cook you dinner, you know. Well¡­ have you eaten yet?¡±


    ¡°Not really, but when you do, how about making me some snacks?¡±


    Vonda was familiar with this request. So, a minuteter she left Max in the bathroom and went to the kitchen. She opened the refrigerator and inspected the ingredients she had on hand.


    ¡°I have mozare.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s gaze shifted andnded on a chicken roll she had madest Sunday. She nodded once and decided that mozare stick and chicken roll would make the perfect snack.


    Efficiently, Vonda sliced the mozare, prepared the dough, and in no time the mozare was sizzling in the pan.


    While waiting for the mozare to cook, Vonda turned her attention to the chicken roll, still wrapped in aluminum foil. She sliced it diagonally and prepared it for frying after the mozare was done.


    ¡°What are you cooking?¡±


    Vonda almost jumped in surprise when Max suddenly appeared behind her, peering into the pan.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Max asked again, and Vonda put her hand to her pounding heart.


    ¡°You¡¯re really good at scaring people,¡± Vonda replied, only to get a grin from Max. ¡°Have you finished fixing the sink?¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°Next time, don¡¯t wash your hair in the sink. It¡¯s filled with hair.¡±


    ¡°Oops!¡± Vonda briefly covered her mouth. ¡°I never wash my hair in the sink.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Max asked skeptically. ¡°Then how do you exin the sink being full of hair? Or is that not hair?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that word. Don¡¯t say it¡¯s your pubic hair,¡± Max quipped. ¡°Hahaha. You¡¯re something else!¡±


    *

 Spark Trigger 2

    Vonda¡¯s face turned even redder at Max¡¯sment. She could not believe how Max had managed to say something that made her feel so embarrassed and her face flushed with shame. She red at him.


    ¡°You are so careless with your words. Do you want me to fry you?¡±


    Max burst outughing. ¡°Hahaha, you¡¯re something else. Just admit it, why don¡¯t you? You¡¯re even considering the more embarrassing option.¡±


    Vonda huffed with a pouty expression. ¡°You¡¯re impossible!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Seriously, was that really hair? Because if it wasn¡¯t hair, I¡¯d be worried about getting itchy hands. Hahaha. Can you imagine me going to the doctor and being asked, ¡®What is the cause of your itching, Sir?¡¯ Hahaha! What would I say?¡±


    ¡°Are you sure you want me to fry you?¡± Vonda asked, picking up a pair of tweezers. ¡°Do you?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Mercy, mercy, My Lady.¡±


    Fighting back theughter that threatened to burst out again, Max tried to focus his mind. He looked back at the contents of the frying pan.


    ¡°Um¡­ it smells delicious. Did you make mozare?¡±


    At first Vonda did not want to answer the question, still embarrassed by the sink incident. She often washed her hair in the sink when she was pressed for time.


    But as Vonda thought about Max¡¯s personality, she realized that he wasn¡¯t really trying to embarrass her. Besides, they were used to teasing each other, right? Although there was no need to go so far as to bring up the subject.


    Taking a quick breath, Vonda replied, ¡°I¡¯m making mozare stick. Um¡­ something just urred to me. Do you eat mozare?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Max asked. ¡°Of course, I eat mozare. What kind of people doesn¡¯t eat mozare?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that. You might have an allergy. I¡¯m just taking precautions.¡±


    ¡°If I have an allergy, I make sure it¡¯s not a mozzare allergy.¡±


    Max grinned. He stood up to get a ss of cold water from the refrigerator, as if he waspletely at home there, and then walked away.


    ¡°Could you take it up front? I want to eat and watch at the same time.¡±


    Vonda was momentarily surprised by Max¡¯s departure, leaving her alone in the kitchen, and then she burst outughing.


    ¡°Sure thing, Sir!¡±


    In fact, when Max came into the kitchen, Vonda was frying thest batch of mozare stick. So, it did not take her long to finish.


    When she finished frying, Vonda joined Max, who was already rxing in front of the TV. She carried a tray with two tes of food, two small tes, a bottle of sauce, and a set of sses filled with water.


    Vonda shook her head in disbelief when she saw how rxed Max was.


    ¡°Wow, wow, wow!¡±


    Max straightened up from his rxed position, his eyes shining as he greeted the tray thatnded on the table. Without a word, Max immediately washed his hands, poured sauce onto a small te, and grabbed a piece of mozare stick.


    ¡°Mozare sticks are usually enjoyed with marinara sauce instead of bottled tomato sauce.¡±


    Picking up a chicken roll, Vonda grinned. ¡°You¡¯re already eating and stillining.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    A mozare stick disappeared into Max¡¯s mouth and he reached for a chicken roll. As he chewed, his eyes shifted to the news program on the television. Vonda clicked her tongue.


    ¡°Tsk! Life is alreadyplicated and now you¡¯re adding the news to it.¡±


    Max grinned. ¡°That¡¯s why I watch the news. So, I can see that there are a lot of people whose lives are moreplicated than mine.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! That¡¯s true, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Well, of course.¡±


    ¡°You know?¡± Vonda asked without waiting for Max to answer. ¡°Actually, that¡¯s why I watch horror movies.¡±


    Max stopped chewing. His look seemed to change.


    ¡°So, I can see that there are a lot of people whose lives are scarier than mine. Hahaha!¡±


    Max wiped his hands with a tissue before reaching for his drink and quenching his thirst.


    ¡°Stress.¡±


    ¡°But you already know I¡¯m stressed.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. That¡¯s true, I guess.¡±


    ¡°All right. Instead of watching the news, let¡¯s watch something else.¡±


    Max, who was about to take another piece of mozare stick, stopped immediately. He saw Vonda reaching for the remote control.


    ¡°What movie do you want to watch?¡±


    At first, Vonda thought about suggesting a sci-fi movie to Max, but when he asked, she suddenly got a mischievous idea. That¡¯s why her gaze changed and she stared at Max with a sinister aura.


    ¡°How about watching The Conjuring?¡±


    Oh well, Max was stunned.


    ¡°You really have no manners, do you? I willingly helped you and this is how you repay me?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Yes! Let¡¯s watch The Conjuring. Hahaha!¡±


    Max was not going to let Vonda y that scary horror movie. He did not want to be paranoid every time he looked in his closet at night.


    ¡°Vonda!¡±


    Just as Vonda was about to stand up, Max reached out and grabbed Vonda¡¯s wrist.


    ¡°Huh? I was going to change the movie. Hahaha!¡±


    Max held on to Vonda¡¯s hand and gave her a stern look. ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯m going to let you y that movie.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Laughing, Vonda tried to free her hand from Max¡¯s tight grip. But she could not. She decided to pull her hand away, but Max held on even tighter.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let go.¡±


    Again, Vonda tried to free her hand and Max did the same. Then, in an instant, Max became even more frustrated by Vonda¡¯s mockingughter.


    Without hesitation, Max increased his strength, and as a result, not only was Vonda¡¯s hand pulled toward him, but her entire body was pulled toward him. Vonda did not know what was happening until a momentter when she realized that she hadnded on Max¡¯s body. She waspletely on top of him, and one of her hands was on his chest, just above a small bulge under the thin fabric of his white shirt.


    Vonda lowered her gaze and her eyes widened as theynded on Max¡¯s nipple, the one she had touched. Her hand immediately felt as if it had been burned by hot charcoal.


    Vonda immediately lifted her hand away. She held her breath as the sensation of Max¡¯s nipple on her palm sent a jolt that made her heart race.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    The weight of Vonda¡¯s body he felt made Max blink. His hand, which held Vonda¡¯s, suddenly felt weak. In addition, Vonda¡¯s touch to his nipple made him swallow hard. It was a touch that seemed designed to make his body instantly tense.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Their eyes locked. Without words to follow, there was only a silence that enveloped them. For a few moments, they remained in that position, as if they both agreed to maintain it. Vonda on top of Max, causing him to half-recline on the soft sofa.


    A minute passed. Just their eyes searching each other. Then, in the next minute, it¡¯s unclear who initiated or who moved first, but two pairs of lips met.


    *

 Right on Everything

    Perhaps it was Vonda who lowered her face, or perhaps it was Max who raised his, or perhaps they silently agreed, without speaking, to move closer together. Regardless of these three possibilities, only one thing was certain. The kiss happened.


    The meeting of their lipssted only a few seconds before they began to move in unison. They kissed, nibbled, and pecked, each taking turns. Over and over again. But more than that, it did not take long for their touch to ignite something else.


    Vonda¡¯s hand, which had first been lifted by a small bulge under Max¡¯s thin shirt, eventually found its way back there. She gripped the fabric tightly as Max¡¯s lips skillfully explored hers.


    Max had originally intended for the kiss to be tender, but his brain seemed to be failing him. It was obvious from his eagerness that he was enjoying the exchange with Vonda¡¯s lips.


    Starting with a nibble on Vonda¡¯s lower lip, he moved to a deeper exploration of her upper lip, and finally teased the corner of her mouth with the tip of his tongue. A warm and wet caress, Max¡¯s tongue trailed sensually across Vonda¡¯s lips.


    Vonda gasped and parted her lips invitingly to wee Max¡¯s promised touch. She allowed his tongue to prate the space of her mouth, sending a shiver down her body to her toes. Unconsciously, she moved closer to Max.


    Max could feel Vonda¡¯s reaction to his touch. So, it was not surprising when he released the hand he had been holding. His hands began to explore and venture into different areas.


    By cupping the back of Vonda¡¯s neck, Max gained better ess to explore the depths of her mouth. He traced each tooth, pushing deeper and weing the warmth inside.


    Two tongues met and intertwined, turning the kiss into a searing sensation that ignited both.


    Max moaned. The fiery kiss and the roaming hands finding Vonda¡¯s round curves were an intoxicating mix. As his lips continued to savor Vonda¡¯s, one of his hands cupped her bottom.


    ¡°Ah.¡±


    A moan escaped Vonda as Max pulled his lips away and, unable to resist any longer, shifted his attention to caressing her skin. Wet trails traced down her cheek, moved to the side of her face, and then traveled to her neck.


    It was then that Max realized the limitations of their current position. So, he moved. Rising from the sofa, he quickly took advantage of Vonda¡¯s willingness and, without hesitation, pushed himself onto her.


    Moving on instinct, Vonda surrendered as Max settled on top of her. Their legs parted, allowing Max to find his ce between them. They moved closer, their bodies pressed together.


    Max¡¯s weight made Vonda sigh. His wet kisses on her neck caused her to lift her head high, closing her eyes as she savored his lips worshipping her.


    Vonda¡¯s soft moans only fueled Max¡¯s desire. The passion inside him surged. With his lips and tongue savoring the sensation of Vonda¡¯s slender neck, Max¡¯s hands began to roam again.


    Max¡¯s first target, of course, were Vonda¡¯s breasts. His hands cupped them from the outside, slightly hindered by her pajamas and bra, but he could still feel their softness.


    He squeezed firmly, rhythmically, making Vonda¡¯s moans grow louder in response to his touch.


    Satisfied by Vonda¡¯s impotent response to his touch, Max¡¯s hands shifted. He slowly descended, stopping at her thighs, his touch featherlight, causing Vonda to unconsciously hold her breath.


    Vonda¡¯s heart raced as she waited for Max¡¯s next touch and his fingers moved. He lifted the edge of her pajama suit, creating a path for his fingers to enter, sending electrifying sensations across Vonda¡¯s sensitive skin.


    Max¡¯s fingers moved gently and lightly, as soft and delicate as a breeze brushing against feathers. They glided in caresses and touches that caused Vonda to unconsciously grasp Max¡¯s shoulders.


    Vonda¡¯s reaction spurred Max to venture further. Moving higher and then¡­ stopping.


    Max made a difficult decision. He stopped his exploration right at the base of Vonda¡¯s thigh. He stayed there, which actually made him dizzy. But Max felt he had to do it. He had to stop because ¡­


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Vonda sensed that something was wrong. Just as she felt the tremors of his touch stop, Vonda cleared her foggy mind and looked at Max.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Vonda could see Max¡¯s expression harden. His eyes were filled with a multitude of emotions she could not quiteprehend.


    Max took a deep breath and tried to calm himself before he spoke, looking directly into Vonda¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°L-let¡¯s stop here, okay?¡±


    It was clear that Max was struggling to speak. His voice was hoarse and raspy. But it left Vonda confused.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Vonda swallowed, different thoughts racing through her mind, causing her to worry.


    Maybe Max doesn¡¯t think I¡¯m a decent girl. Maybe Max ¡­


    ¡°I didn¡¯t bring my wallet.¡±


    The negative thoughts immediately disappeared from Vonda¡¯s mind and she looked at Max.


    ¡°Sorry?¡± Vonda blinked. ¡°You didn¡¯t bring your wallet?¡±


    Grinning, Max nodded. ¡°I thought I was justing over to fix the sink. So I didn¡¯t bring my wallet.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face turned red. The earlier worries were reced by even worse thoughts.


    He didn¡¯t think to give me money after we were like this on the sofa, did he? Is he ¡­ he ¡­ going to pay me? He ¡­


    ¡°And even if I had my wallet, I¡¯m not even sure there¡¯s a condom in it.¡±


    Once again, Vonda¡¯s negative thoughts were dispelled, this time causing her to burst outughing.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Max bnced his weight on one elbow, putting some distance between them. His forehead furrowed.


    ¡°Why are youughing all of a sudden?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡± Vonda tried to hold back herughter for a moment. ¡°I thought you were going to give me money after we kissed like that. Turns out it¡¯s just for a condom.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Max almost wanted to p Vonda. ¡°How could you downy the importance of a condom like that? What year do you think this is? A condom ¡­ is one of the tokens of appreciation a guy can give a girl.¡±


    Vondaughed again at Max¡¯s rant. ¡°Ah, of course you¡¯re thinking about all the safety.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t do this if you¡¯re worried about getting pregnantter.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes met Max¡¯s. ¡°I just finished my period yesterday, so there¡¯s no chance of getting pregnant. The percentage is low.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Max stared, then blinked, as if trying to bring himself back to consciousness.


    Hang on, Max. Hang in there. Don¡¯t be an idiot. There are already too many idiots in this world.


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ I can¡¯t continue if you¡¯re worried that I¡¯m not clean.¡±


    Vonda blinked once. ¡°You¡¯re not clean?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened for a moment. ¡°You¡¯re so direct. I am clean. Do you think I¡¯m some kind of casual rtionship addict?¡±


    ¡°So?¡± Vonda asked. ¡°Are you the one who is worried that I might not be clean?¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ I¡­ well¡­¡±


    Surely that was not Max¡¯s thought. Rather, he did not want to make Vonda regret her actions. Before, Max¡¯s only concern was that what he was about to do might make Vonda regret it. Exactly that. And this time Vonda blinked twice and looked at Max a little awkwardly.


    ¡°You know, I¡¯ve never been in an intime rtionship before¡­¡±


    Max fell silent. He could only stare at Vonda, who spoke softly, her cheeks turning a faint pink. Blushing. Meanwhile, her eyes darted in another direction, seemingly ufortable with the discussion.


    It was as if a colorful bomb had exploded in Max¡¯s eyes, making it almost impossible for him to see.


    ¡°So,¡± Vonda continued. ¡°I also¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop, Von,¡± Max interrupted suddenly.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes, which had briefly looked away while she spoke, now returned to Max. But before she could ask what he meant; Max interrupted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so cute,¡± Max grumbled. ¡°I¡¯m getting¡­ getting¡­¡±


    Oh, never mind!


    Max could not speak anymore. It seemed that his mouth had suddenly be a speech impediment for a moment. Because something else had unexpectedly be a priority. Um¡­ like kissing Vonda, for example.


    Vonda was surprised. For a moment, she waited for Max to continue, but the next moment, she found his lipsnding on hers in a passionate embrace.


    Vonda¡¯s chest immediately tightened. She tried to steal onest breath before Max¡¯s kiss turned her whole body into chaos.


    Max¡¯s lips pressed against Vonda¡¯s with fervor, with a sense of urgency, without restraint. Vonda¡¯s blushing face crossed Max¡¯s mind as he closed his eyes and savored the softness of her lips.


    That rosy, pink face was enticing. Sweetly seductive. It made Max unable to resist the urge to kiss her.


    Max opened Vonda¡¯s mouth and, without warning, pulled her warm tongue into his mouth. Once inside, Vonda¡¯s tongue became the object of Max¡¯s persistent kisses. He caressed her tongue, applying gentle pressure that made Vonda moan softly. He gave her yful bites, then tasted her at will.


    Vonda closed her eyes tightly, convinced that if she opened them, she¡¯d see her surroundings spinning.


    Every kiss her tongue received made Vonda more restless. And Max¡¯s hand, still under her pajamas, only added to her confusion.


    With a low growl, Max pulled away. Vonda¡¯s eyes fluttered open as she realized that Max had quickly removed the undershirt he had been wearing. The shirt was nowhere to be seen.


    Then, without asking, Max grabbed the edge of Vonda¡¯s pajamas. This caused Vonda to reflexively lift herself up, allowing Max to remove her pajamas.


    Max was stunned to see Vonda lying beneath him. A little embarrassed, she crossed her arms over her chest, which was still covered by her bra.


    Of course. That part would always be fascinating. Strangely enough, the submissive and blushing expression on Vonda¡¯s face enchanted Max even more. He could not hold back any longer.


    Max approached Vonda once more. Their lips met again. And as they exchanged passionate kisses, Max happily used his hand to caress Vonda¡¯s breasts. Again and again, causing Vonda to reflexively lift one of her legs and drape it over Max¡¯s body. She tried to pull him closer, clinging to him tightly.


    Vonda¡¯s bra was discarded the next minute. Followed by Vonda¡¯s tantalizing moan as Max immediately lowered his mouth to tease one of her nipples that had be erect from his earlier caresses.


    Vonda¡¯s hands gripped Max¡¯s soft hair. Her eyes were squeezed shut. She moaned loudly. Everything came together perfectly as Max¡¯s mouth sucked on her nipple, ying with it with his tongue and sucking hard.


    While his mouth performed heady maneuvers on Vonda¡¯s breasts, his hand was not to be outdone. Max¡¯s fingers wandered, caressing Vonda¡¯s thighs. He found a strap that formed a ribbon-like pattern along her hip.


    Max had noticed it before. Now he wanted to see it again. Releasing Vonda¡¯s nipple from his mouth, he lowered his head and nted small kisses along Vonda¡¯s stomach. Until his lips stopped over her femininity. Her femininity was covered by a small piece of underwear, adorned with ribbon-like straps on either side. As Max looked down, Vonda bit her lower lip.


    ¡°I¡­ I just identally wore the fiss again tonight.¡±


    As if that needed an exnation from Vonda. Still, Max grinned. The fis underwear did not exactly hide Vonda¡¯s femininity. On the contrary, it left more to the imagination.


    Both of Max¡¯s hands moved. Gently pulling down the fis panties while Vonda lifted her hips slightly. A minuteter, when Max pressed against her again, not a single thread clung to their bodies. This time they both felt so¡­ liberated and free.


    Max teased every nerve in Vonda¡¯s body. Kissing her lips. Sucking her neck. Nibbled her nipple.


    Vonda responded with teasing of her own. Scratching gently down Max¡¯s back. yfully nibbling his shoulder. Tugging at his hair.


    Anxiety surged through Vonda. She was anxious, unable to do anything but spread her legs wider, trying to pull Max closer, offering the moisture beneath her for him to experience.


    Max¡¯s hand moved. Down. Toward Vonda¡¯s femininity, now intensely ready for him. Warm, wet and¡­ Max inserted a finger.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Argh.¡±


    Vonda arched her back suddenly under Max¡¯s body, feeling the sensation of Max¡¯s finger inside her. Max clenched his jaw, his gaze intense and focused.


    Max swallowed hard. His finger had barely entered her, but he felt like he was about to explode. What if¡­ what if¡­


    Vonda could feel Max¡¯s masculinity bing fully erect. It was clearly felt against her abdomen, arousing her primal desires.


    As Max¡¯s finger entered Vonda, she almost went wild with need. It made her, consciously or not, reach for Max¡¯s masculinity.


    Max was astonished. As his finger moved inside Vonda, he found Vonda¡¯s fingers grasping his masculinity. Her gentle fingers stroked his head, adding a touch of moisture before moving slowly.


    Good Lord! For a moment, Max feared he would explode before they even started.


    ¡°Shall we go into the bedroom, Von?¡± Max struggled to ask.


    Frankly, Max really wanted to enjoy this night. The sofa had its appeal, no doubt. But this time Max wanted to fully explore Vonda¡¯s sensuality.


    The sofa could wait its turn, Max promised himself.


    It seemed that¡¯s what Vonda wanted as well. She nodded.


    Max stood up and lifted Vonda off the sofa, and she was surprised to find herself being carried by Max.


    Without hesitation, Vonda wrapped both of her legs around Max¡¯s waist. Holding on tight as Max took a step forward, Vonda felt something. Specifically, the head of Max¡¯s masculinity brushing against her private parts.


    Max¡¯s step stopped instantly. They locked eyes. As if their minds could read each other¡¯s intentions, Vonda¡¯s hand, which had initially encircled Max¡¯s neck, began to descend. Sliding between their bodies, it found Max¡¯s masculinity and directed it to her private area. At that moment, Max thrusted forward.


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    Vonda closed her eyes and immediately tilted her head back as Max¡¯s masculinity thrust forcefully into her.


    ¡°Good Lord.¡±


    Max hissed, feeling the warmth inside. The sensation was intense and tight.


    Ah! It seemed the bedroom could wait its turn as well.


    Vonda pushed her body closer to Max¡¯s as he clenched his jaw and began to move his hips. Max¡¯s hand moved down and held Vonda tightly to her buttocks. It was an appropriate choice, as he could also squeeze her while his masculinity moved in and out of Vonda.


    ¡°Oh, Max.¡±


    Vonda closed her eyes and grabbed Max¡¯s hair. Her face nestled in the curve of Max¡¯s shoulder, surrendering to every movement he made.


    Max became even more driven, feeling how Vonda enchanted him. Inside her, the muscles seemed to grip him tightly. It was an addictive sensation that forced Max to push harder.


    Max¡¯s hands kneaded Vonda¡¯s buttocks, guiding the lower part of her body to move in sync with his own rhythmic thrusts. The speed of his hips increased, getting stronger and faster. In and out, again and again. A rhythm that seemed to add a sweet melody to their passion.


    Passion?


    Max froze.


    Maybe it wasn¡¯t that serious, but oh my goodness!


    For some reason, Max felt like his entire body was being pulled into the vortex called Vonda. He wanted to feel every sensation of Vonda imprinted on every nerve in his body. He truly wanted to experience every part of her to the veryst drop. This only fueled Max¡¯s determination to satisfy Vonda even more.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s soft moans calling his name made Max groan. He thrust deeper and harder, over and over again.


    ¡°Oh, Max.¡±


    All these sensations made Vonda feelpletely overwhelmed. The fullness and intensity inside her, the strong grip on her buttocks and the contact between Max¡¯s testicles and the underside of her buttocks. Everything blended perfectly and made Vonda feel adored.


    Vonda tightened her grip and pressed her soft breasts against Max¡¯s chest. She squeezed tighter when she felt Max move slightly, shifting their positions slightly, and he thrust again. This time his movement hit Vonda¡¯s sensitive spot inside her.


    ¡°Max!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice grew louder as she pulled at Max¡¯s hair.


    Max knew he had found Vonda¡¯s tender spot. He thrust repeatedly, eliciting moans, sighs and cries from Vonda that grew louder.


    Sweat sprayed and trickled along their skin. Vonda and Max clung to each other, not caring how long they had been like this, standing in the middle of the room. They worshipped each other with equal need.


    Sweat poured down and soaked their naked bodies. The next moment, as Vonda began to tire after screaming twice in Max¡¯s embrace, she felt the same sensation again. The tingling that would bring her to the peak of pleasure once again.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Max¡¯s voice sounded strained. His breathing became faster and harder. It all intensified with each thrust he made, stronger and faster, over and over again.


    Wet, warm, and slippery. All the sensations of Vonda¡¯s femininity truly caressed Max¡¯s masculinity.


    It was a temptation. A seduction that could not be put into words. In the form of a grip and warmth that Max could not resist.


    Max surrendered. Finally, as the orgasm Vonda felt echoed through him, he decided to let go.


    With onest thrust, Max pushed hard until his masculinity met Vonda¡¯s cervix. She screamed long and loud for the third time. Then she felt Max¡¯s masculinity twitch inside her.


    ¡°Oh, Vonda.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s head fell on Max¡¯s shoulder. She could not speak. She feltpletely drained.


    ¡°Good God, Max.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s chest rose and fell gently against Max¡¯s. She was trying to catch her breath after three waves of pleasure had nearly blinded her. Max, too, was trying to calm himself after the orgasmic onught that had just hit him.


    ¡°Wow.¡±


    Max did not want to, but he could not help but chuckle. Which was immediately met with Vonda¡¯sughter.


    ¡°We really are hopeless,¡± Vonda said yfully. She pulled her face away slightly to look into Max¡¯s eyes. ¡°We can¡¯t even make it to the bedroom without losing control.¡±


    Max¡¯s chuckle gradually faded, reced by a smile as he looked at Vonda¡¯s disheveled but strangely radiant face. What made him proud was that all of this had happened because of him.


    Vonda returned Max¡¯s smile, equally captivated by his handsome, disheveled face. He was truly tempting, and without hesitation, Vonda cupped both of Max¡¯s cheeks.


    Max remained still. He did not move as Vonda¡¯s face drew closer, his eyes slowly closing. Just a moment before Vonda¡¯s lips met his, gently sealing the kiss, Max felt a flutter in his heart.


    It felt¡­ indescribable to Max.


    It felt just right.


    *

 Inevitable 1

    ¡°Wait a minute, Von. Don¡¯t move yet. My legs are shaking.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡±


    ¡°I told you not to move yet. But you¡¯re being stubborn.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡±


    ¡°I am serious. My legs are really shaking.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. The risk of kangaroo style, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Kangaroo style?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Because you were jumping around a bit.¡±


    ¡°Oh dear. You¡¯re making my legs shake even more!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. Okay, okay.¡±


    ¡°So, stopughing.¡±


    ¡°Oops! Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, sorry.¡±


    ¡°In that case¡­ just put me down. I might fall again.¡±


    ¡°In the bathroom, Von. If youe down here¡­ you want to mop the floorte at night?¡±


    Something crossed Vonda¡¯s mind and she realized where Max¡¯s words were going. Vonda started to giggle, and of course Max got annoyed.


    Max squeezed Vonda¡¯s buttocks and frowned. ¡°I told you not to move too much. We could both fall here. My legs can¡¯t take it anymore.¡±


    It was hard for Vonda to hold back herughter, especially when Max decided to move the next moment.


    Still carrying Vonda, Max walked slowly, his legs shaking. He clenched his jaw and inhaled deeply. He began to walk, albeit with unsteady steps. At that moment, Vonda secretly looked down. She wondered.


    If I were to fall, would it hurt?


    Fortunately, that thought did note true. Eventually, Max managed to carry them both to the bathroom in Vonda¡¯s room. Right under the shower, Max put Vonda down.


    They cleaned themselves up. A few minutester they came out, each wrapped in a towel. That¡¯s when Vonda spoke.


    ¡°Wait. I¡¯ll get your clothes from before.¡±


    Max tried to stop her. ¡°I¡¯ll get them.¡±


    ¡°You said your legs couldn¡¯t take it anymore,¡± Vonda continued yfully. ¡°Just sit down.¡±


    Blushing with embarrassment, Max decided not to argue any further. He did indeed sit down as Vonda instructed. On the edge of the bed, to be exact. When Vonda left, he squeezed his knees.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness. My knees feel so empty right now.¡±


    Vonda returned with their clothes. She handed Max his clothes while she went across the room to put on hers. Meanwhile, Max, who was also getting dressed, could not help but sneak a peek.


    Vonda was facing the wall, trying to put on each piece of clothing without letting go of the towel on her body. Somehow the sight made it hard for Max to breathe.


    Almost unaware of the situation, Max was lucky to be able to turn his body quickly. Just as Vonda finished and began to move.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Max put on a fake expression as Vonda approached him. He held out his hand and Max returned the towel he had used.


    ¡°Do you want something to eat? Maybe sandwiches?¡± Vonda asked as she returned from putting the towel back in the bathroom. ¡°To keep your legs from shaking.¡±


    Max nodded to Vonda and declined with azy and tired expression on his face.


    ¡°Instead of eating, I think I¡¯ll just take a little nap. I need to gather some energy. I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to keep up.¡±


    Vonda, moving toward her vanity, chuckled. Honestly, if she could be honest, it was not just Max who felt his legs were weak. Vonda felt the same, or worse. There was still a lingering feeling in her femininity that almost made her want to copse on the bed. But she tried to hold herself together so as not to embarrass herself in front of Max.


    Deciding to do her skin care routine, Vonda looked at Max through the reflection of the mirror. She said,


    ¡°Just go to sleep for a little while. I¡¯ll wake you upter.¡±


    Max yawned, not responding to Vonda¡¯s words, and then actuallyy down on the bed.


    Looking at Max through the mirror again, Vonda saw that his breathing was gradually bing more regr and that he was indeed fast asleep. She could not help but smile to herself.


    After cleaning her face, Vonda walked over to the bed. With no intention of sleeping, she just wanted to lie down next to Max. Shey on her stomach and watched Max, who was already asleep.


    There was a strand of hair that had fallen on Max¡¯s forehead, and Vonda touched it, gently moving the hair back to where it belonged. Vonda realized that it was a first for her to see Max¡¯s tired face in his sleep.


    Blinking once, Vonda thought that watching someone sleep was a waste of time. But there seemed to be an exception. For Vonda found it quite¡­ well, enjoyable.


    More than pleasant, perhaps. Since an hour had passed before she noticed, Vonda hastily woke Max.


    ¡°Max, wake up.¡±


    Max waspletely still. He didn¡¯t move as if he was already dead. So, Vonda decided to let Max sleep a little longer.


    Maybe he¡¯s really exhausted. Let him sleep a little longer.


    Vonda decided to give Max a little more time to sleep. And while she waited, she alsoid her head on the pillow. She mumbled to herself,


    ¡°Just a little longer.¡±


    *


    Max was certain that it was the most restful sleep he had ever experienced in his entire life. Deep and peaceful. Even when he regained consciousness, he felt an incredible lightness. It was as if the weight he had been carrying everywhere had vanished without a trace.


    Max¡¯s eyes opened and he looked directly at the ceiling of a room that was very different from his own. He frowned and remembered something.


    Vonda¡¯s room?


    Max turned around and at that moment he froze. There was Vonda at his side. She was lying with one hand supporting her head, curled up slightly against his chest.


    Max swallowed. Vonda was sleeping next to him, in a position that was so intimate. The reality of it suddenly made it hard for Max to breathe.


    There was something strange about it, something unfamiliar. Max closed his eyes again. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He had to calm down first.


    After a few moments Max realized something. That¡¯s why he tentatively tried to pat Vonda¡¯s hand on his stomach.


    ¡°Von.¡±


    Vonda stayed still and Max tried again.


    ¡°Von.¡±


    Still no answer. Vonda remained asleep.


    Max tried again to wake Vonda until his eyes identally fell on the wall clock. The time shown by the hands of the clock made him open his eyes.


    It¡¯s five in the morning? Oh, my goodness. Did I really sleep?


    Max panicked.


    It¡¯s still a workday. I have to go to the office. Oh, no.


    Trying to wake Vonda again, Max finally gave up. He used hisst option. Slowly and carefully, he tried to free himself from Vonda¡¯s embrace.


    Gently and carefully, so as not to disturb her sleep, Max repositioned Vonda¡¯s body on the bed. This included freeing her hand from under her head.


    Max took a long breath. He stood up, grabbed his jacket, put it on and checked that he had not left anything behind.


    With the intention of leaving immediately, Max¡¯s steps were stopped after only two steps. He paused for a moment and turned to see Vonda sleeping peacefully.


    Max approached Vonda again. He straightened the nket and gently stroked her cheek.


    At that moment, something seemed toe over Max. Something that overrode his rational thinking. It made him believe he had the right to do what he was about to do.


    Max lowered his face. He brushed his lips lightly across Vonda¡¯s forehead. Then he finally left.


    *

 Inevitable 2

    Twenty minutester, Max was back with his own unit. He was thankful that the streets were not too crowded that morning. Without wasting any time, Max decided to get ready right away.


    It did not take long for Max to get dressed for work. He was ready to leave, but decided to heat up the leftover pizza fromst night. Max thought that five minutes would be enough to fill his stomach for the morning. However, a call that came in on his cell phone made Max change his n.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    ¡°Max, how are you?¡±


    Hearing Riley ask about his well-being somehow sent a chill down Max¡¯s spine. Unconsciously, Max rubbed his neck.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mom,¡± Max replied. ¡°Why? It¡¯s unusual for you to ask about my well-being.¡±


    Riley let out a short sigh on the other end. ¡°Is it weird to ask about your own child¡¯s well-being? Or is that not allowed?¡±


    Max let out a long sigh as he left his room. On his way to the kitchen, he decided to reheat the pizza.


    ¡°Mom,e on. If there¡¯s something, just get to the point. Don¡¯t make me anxious by thinking of all sorts of possibilities.¡±


    Max took the pizza out of the refrigerator and warmed it up. Then he started to boil water to make a cup of coffee. Meanwhile, Riley sounded like she was taking a deep breath.


    ¡°Let me ask you this. When are you nning to marry Vonda?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes immediately narrowed at the question. He tried to remain calm with a hint of sarcasm. Why should he be surprised by this question?


    ¡°Um¡­ Mom, be patient, okay?¡±


    Confused as to how to respond, Max finally chose the safe route. Frankly, that morning, Max was really not prepared to face Riley¡¯s stockpile of questions when it came to Vonda.


    ¡°Well, Max,¡± Riley said with a slightly annoyed tone at Max¡¯s answer. ¡°Why? What are you waiting for?¡±


    Max furrowed his brow. Suddenly he felt like he was getting a migraine.


    Vonda and I only pretended to save me from an arranged marriage with Via. But why did it turn out this way?


    Max moved when he heard the microwave beep. His pizza was ready, coinciding with the sound of the kettle.


    ¡°Mom, we can¡¯t rush into marriage, can we?¡± Max replied. ¡°We have to take it slow, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ take things slow,¡± Riley repeated. ¡°Let me ask. How¡¯s your rtionship with Vonda? Is your rtionship stable?¡±


    At least this question should be answered by Max. It should be. But the opposite happened.


    ¡°Our rtionship is solid, Mom. Don¡¯t worry about it. Besides, we had a private rendezvousst night.¡±


    As the sentence slipped from his lips, Max¡¯s eyes widened in horror. Now he was no longer focused on the kettle in front of him.


    ¡°Ouch!¡±


    Max cried out in pain as his fingers identally touched the body of the cauldron instead of the handle. He immediately felt the heat.


    ¡°Wait. A private rendezvous? What do you mean, Max?¡±


    Max waved his stinging hand as he bit his lower lip. He cursed in his mind.


    Oh, my goodness. What did I just say?


    ¡°Max, what do you mean by ¡®a private rendezvous¡¯ you hadst night?¡±


    Max cleared his throat.


    I¡¯m doomed.


    Max let out a short sigh. He tried to think on his feet to find the right reasons and answers.


    ¡°Mom, it¡¯s not what you think.¡±


    ¡°Oh, really?¡±


    This time there was a hint of doubt and an implied threat in Riley¡¯s voice. Max could sense it.


    ¡°You mean you know what I¡¯m thinking?¡±


    Max closed his eyes dramatically. Riley¡¯s question really trapped him.


    Oh no! Oh no! I¡¯m finished!


    Max took a deep breath. He decided to step away from the kettle that was still on the stove. At least he made sure the me was out.


    ¡°Well, Mom, what I meant was¡­¡±


    Max tried his luck at deceiving Riley this time.


    ¡°¡­ a few days ago, we had a fight. So, we haven¡¯t beenmunicating, Mom.¡± He took a quick breath. ¡°Well, we justmunicated against night. Reconnected. A private rendezvous.¡±


    Phew! Thank you for this brain, God.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Riley¡¯s relieved tone on the other end made Max exhale several times in relief.


    ¡°So¡­ you¡¯re not fighting anymore?¡±


    Choosing to sit on the kitchen ind as his body suddenly felt weak, Max replied.


    ¡°No, Mom, we¡¯re not. We¡¯ve made up.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ that¡¯s good, Max. That¡¯s why I said if you¡¯re in love like this, you¡¯d better just get married. You¡¯re qualified to be a husband.¡±


    Max grimaced. It seemed that his hand was really burning from the kettle incident.


    ¡°Qualifications? Does Mom think this is the qualifying round for the World Cup?¡±


    Riley burst outughing. ¡°What I mean is that you have a job. Your ie is more than enough to support Vonda and your future children.¡±


    Wait a second. Max needed to breathe. He quickly loosened the tie around his neck.


    ¡°Besides, there are so many young people out there who don¡¯t realize they¡¯re not mentally or financially ready, but they still go ahead and get married. You who are ready, why aren¡¯t you brave enough?¡±


    ¡°Mom,e on. Whether we¡¯re ready or not, we know ourselves. And we¡¯ll be the ones to live it, you know.¡±


    ¡°Oops! Yeah, you¡¯re right,¡± Riley said quickly. ¡°Sorry if I went too far. Maybe we can get together, Max. We can meet soon. So, we can talk a little. Maybe your mind will open up.¡±


    Max shivered. ¡°Talking to you won¡¯t open my mind, Mom. In fact, it¡¯s the opposite. My mind will probably be even more clogged.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re something else, really. All right then. Let¡¯s continue this conversationter.¡±


    Finally¡­ a few secondster, the call ended. Max let out a breath of relief that felt truly extraordinary. Putting the phone back in his pocket, Max looked at the pizza and the cooled hot water.


    I¡¯ll bete for the office if I insist on having breakfast now.


    Max stepped out of the kitchen after putting the pizza back in the fridge. As he wiped his face, he thought.


    Maybe if I had epted Vonda¡¯s offer to eatst night, I wouldn¡¯t be so hungry this morning. Damn it! Oh, my goodness. Now I¡¯m thinking about Vonda.


    *

 Conjecture and Surprise 1

    Vonda woke up with pain in several ces. It¡¯s no wonder it took her quite a while to open her eyes. A beam of light hit Vonda¡¯s retinas. Reflexively, she blinked her eyes again for a moment until she felt ready to take in the morning surroundings. And the first thing Vonda did when she opened her eyes again was to look sideways.


    Empty. Vonda took a long breath. Her eyes blinked and she finally took a deep breath. Strange. But there was something that felt like a lump in her throat. As if something was pressing against her heart.


    ¡°He¡¯s gone home.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice sounded weak as she said it. Another strange thing, wasn¡¯t it? Why did she say that?


    Vonda got up from her bed and sat quietly at the edge for a while. Maybe half thinking. Thinking about what had happened.


    ¡°Huh.¡±


    Vonda rubbed her face briefly. Suddenly she had the feeling that her head was filled with various intangible things.


    She got up and went to the bathroom, intending to wash her face before taking a shower.


    Vonda stood at the sink and looked at her reflection in the mirror. But a momentter she found herself looking down instead. At the water flowing gently into the sink drain.


    ¡°Why am I like this? Even if he came back, that¡¯s normal, right? Besides, he and I¡­¡±


    Vonda did not finish her sentence.


    ¡°Well ¡­ even though we don¡¯t have a rtionship, we were both fully aware of what happenedst night.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hands caught the running water and sshed her face three times.


    ¡°What am I supposed to do when I see him at the officeter?¡±


    Unwillingly, many possibilities flooded Vonda¡¯s mind. She was not sure she could act normal.


    ¡°Argh!¡± Vonda grumbled, tugging at her hair in frustration. ¡°Why did I let myself go like that?¡±


    The thought that she and Max didn¡¯t have a real rtionship, but still ended up doing something so intimate, made Vonda¡¯s head pound. She felt dizzy with a single echoing question.


    ¡°I wonder if he thinks I¡¯m an easy girl?¡±


    Just thinking about that possibility was enough to make Vonda feel so frustrated. Unconsciously, she found herself sitting on the floor, her hands clutching the edge of the sink.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    All these thoughts echoed in Vonda¡¯s mind, one after the other. Repeatedly, even as she showered and got ready for work.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh my God. Should I just take a sudden vacation?¡±


    But as Vonda dressed for work, it was clear that she wasn¡¯t going to take the day off. What weighed on her was the memory of a meeting she had to attend. The meeting had to do with her and Max.


    ¡°Ugh!¡±


    Vonda clutched her chest. Her heart seemed to rebel inside.


    ¡°Seriously. Just remembering his name makes me so nervous. Oh, my God. Can¡¯t the meeting just be on Zoom?¡±


    As Vonda mourned the potential fate of her day, she still tried to enjoy her breakfast. Whole wheat bread with a half-cooked fried egg and some vegetables on top.


    The ringing of the phone interrupted Vonda¡¯s breakfast,ing from a call that nearly caused her to choke on a slice of tomato.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    Just as Vonda had managed to calm her pounding heart from thoughts of Max, she found herself in a whirlwind over the guy¡¯s mother.


    ¡°Hi, my future daughter-inw.¡±


    Vonda quickly grabbed her ss of water. Oh my God. It turned out that it was not the tomato that had made her choke, but a piece of lettuce.


    ¡°Did you go to work, Von?¡±


    Satisfied that the lettuce had indeed found its way into her stomach, Vonda finally replied.


    ¡°I just finished breakfast, Mom. I¡¯ll be leaving soon.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Riley whispered on the other end. ¡°In that case, can I speak directly?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s body tensed instantly and she felt a chill.


    ¡°Talk about what, Mom?¡±


    ¡°About your rtionship with Max.¡±


    Vonda blinked her eyes.


    ¡°Earlier Max told me. He said the two of you were togetherst night.¡±


    What?!


    Luckily, Vonda had already finished her whole wheat bread. Otherwise, she was sure she would not have just choked on tomato or lettuce at that moment. She would have choked on the whole bread, stuffing, and all!


    ¡°To-to-together?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s breath felt disconnected.


    Doesn¡¯t Max have a brain? How could he tell Mom that we were togetherst night? Oh, God. He-


    ¡°Yes. Max told me that you had a fight a few days ago. You just made-upst night. Did he call you or anything, Von?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Vonda blinked repeatedly. It was as if her brain needed more time to process Riley¡¯s words.


    ¡°Ah,¡± Vonda murmured, trying not to scratch her head. ¡°Max told you that we had a fight?¡±


    ¡°Tsk! So that means you had a fight. You argued, right?¡±


    When Riley asked that, Vonda¡¯s brain immediately conjured up the events of the previous night when she and Max had argued. To the point where they had both ended up battered and exhausted in bed.


    ¡°Ah. It wasn¡¯t serious, Mom. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Riley¡¯s sigh sounded over the phone. ¡°Well, that¡¯s a relief. And that¡¯s why I called so early. To ask if maybe we could get together and talk, just the two of us, Vonda.¡±


    ¡°Talk about what, Ma?¡±


    Riley¡¯s answer made Vonda flinch.


    ¡°Well, your engagement date, of course. I don¡¯t want to talk about your payday. You¡¯re such a character. Hehehe.¡±


    ¡°Engagement date?¡±


    At that moment, Vonda decided not to eat her breakfast of whole wheat bread with half-cooked fried eggs. She suddenly felt immensely nauseous.


    Marry Max?


    Vonda could not imagine it.


    *


    ¡°He won¡¯t think you¡¯re cheap. Don¡¯t worry about that. Max isn¡¯t that kind of guy.¡±


    It was like a mantra that Vonda repeated in her head as she walked to her workstation. She hoped it would calm her escting nervousness and bring her heart rate back to normal. The excitement, which had be increasingly overwhelming, worried her. Her heart could explode. Shatter into pieces and she¡¯d die instantly.


    Oh my God!


    Vonda walked in, letting the door close on its own as she walked forward. As she made her way to her desk, her gaze fell on Max¡¯s office door.


    Is he there or not? Because the meeting is at eight, right?


    As Vonda wondered about his presence, a voice suddenly came from behind her.


    ¡°Good morning, Vonda.¡±


    Vonda jumped in surprise, almost jumping, and yelling out loud.


    ¡°Oh my God!¡±


    Vonda turned immediately to see Max greeting her with a smile. The door had closed, leaving just the two of them inside. Vonda swallowed nervously.


    It¡¯s just the two of us in here.


    Vonda waspletely nervous. Nervous, trembling and, you could even say, embarrassed. Max noticed immediately.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter with you?¡±


    This question made Vonda even more nervous. She could not think clearly and rushed her decision, hoping to ease the situation between them.


    ¡°Aboutst night¡­¡±


    It was the first topic of the day that Max hadn¡¯t expected. Inevitably, it made him struggle to catch his breath.


    ¡°Last night¡­.¡±


    Max could have said thatst night was a perfect night. A night that almost blinded him. A night that made him feel like the luckiest man in the world. A night that¡­


    ¡°It didn¡¯t mean anything, did it, Max?¡±


    The order of words in Max¡¯s head immediately copsed. For a moment he was speechless. He could only stand there and watch as Vonda stumbled a bit as she spoke.


    ¡°W-we¡¯re both adults. Having sex doesn¡¯t mean it¡¯s a bad thing, right? I mean¡­ we both know that sex is a biological need.¡±


    Vonda bit her lower lip.


    It doesn¡¯t mean that I¡¯m promiscuous. We could look at it as me fulfilling my own biological needs. Please don¡¯t think I¡¯m being inappropriate.


    Max froze. He took a deep breath and once again¡­ felt like something was squeezing his heart. But unlike yesterday, it was different. This squeeze brought a feeling he wanted to push far away. He tried to calm himself and forced a smile.


    ¡°Well¡­ of course. Th-That could happen to anyone.¡±


    *

 Conjecture and Surprise 2

    Vonda bit her lower lip and took a long breath. Strangely enough, Vonda did not feel any calmer, even though Max had given her the answer she wanted.


    Something was not quite right. Like a screw that had been improperly fitted into its hole. And just like Max, Vonda forced a smile.


    ¡°W-we can think of it as helping each other¡­¡± Vonda swallowed. ¡°¡­ out.¡±


    Ah, Vonda really did not know how to say it without leaving a feeling of embarrassment on her face. At least Max helped with a quick nod. Honestly, he didn¡¯t want to hear the rest of Vonda¡¯s words.


    I feel like such an idiot.


    ¡°Yeah, Vonda. I get it,¡± Max said then. ¡°Besides, there¡¯s no harm done here. We are both single. So, we¡¯re not hurting anyone.¡±


    ¡°Ah, absolutely.¡± Vonda nodded repeatedly. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right.¡±


    After that, they fell into a mutual silence. They took deep breaths, as if they needed time to regain theirposure.


    ¡°Um¡­ shall we go to the conference room, Max?¡±


    Max exhaled slowly.


    Maybe it¡¯s the effect of not having had a proper meal sincest night. On top of that, no breakfast, and a phone call from Mom. And on top of that, this conversation.


    Max feltpletely exhausted. He was drained.


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll put my bag away first.¡±


    Vonda was relieved when Max entered his office. But for some reason, the air she breathed felt different. It wasn¡¯t as refreshing as it usually was. Instead of making her feel better, it made her feel constricted.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    A momentter Max came out. Vonda smiled at him and they went to the conference room. They participated in an interdepartmental discussion thatsted about two hours. The break was a powerful respite for both Vonda and Max. Thanks to the meeting, the professionalism that had to be maintained improved their conditions somewhat.


    ¡°Are you still at your office? Do you want me to pick you up?¡±


    A call from Sarah during the break made Vonda realize how empty her stomach was. Even though she had eaten breakfast, something seemed to be draining most of her energy.


    ¡°Yeah. There¡¯s a letter I have to answer. Why don¡¯t youe over here first?¡±


    ¡°Okay-okay. I¡¯m down the hall. I¡¯ll be there soon.¡±


    The call ended, and momentster there was a knock at the door. Sarah entered with her usual cheerful smile. She sat and waited while Vonda finished her work.


    ¡°Alright! Let¡¯s have lunch now, Sarah. I¡¯m so hungry.¡±


    Sarah stood up as Vonda approached her. She nodded, but her eyes went to another door.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t say goodbye to your boss?¡±


    Vonda shook her head briefly. ¡°No need.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not having lunch either?¡±


    ¡°Um.¡± Vonda rolled her eyes briefly, thinking. ¡°He¡¯ll probably eatter. He likes the Mexican restaurant near the intersection.¡±


    Sarah nodded. ¡°Oh.¡±


    Vonda took Sarah¡¯s hand and led her out of the room.


    ¡°Enough about him,¡± Vonda said as she opened the door. ¡°I¡¯m getting hungry. So-¡±


    ¡°Vonda?¡±


    Both Vonda¡¯s footsteps and words stopped. A sudden voice in her ears made her eyes widen. Vonda¡¯s expression was as if she had seen a demon in broad daylight.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    Sarah¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Mom?¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, Vonda. I never expected to see you here,¡± said the middle-aged woman who was none other than Riley. She approached Vonda. ¡°This is such a coincidence to meet you.¡±


    Vonda swallowed nervously. Unconsciously, she let go of Sarah¡¯s hand and let Riley hold it.


    ¡°Are you on a break?¡± Riley asked enthusiastically. ¡°Ready for lunch?¡±


    Vonda nodded stiffly. ¡°Y-yes, Mom.¡±


    Riley smiled happily. ¡°Perfect timing then. Mama¡¯s here to invite Max for lunch. Well, also to have a little conversation.¡±


    A confused expression appeared on Sarah¡¯s forehead. ¡°Max?¡±


    ¡°Um, wait a minute.¡±


    Riley¡¯s brow furrowed as well. Just like Sarah, but for a different reason. She had just realized something she had overlooked.


    ¡°How did you get here, Vonda?¡± Riley asked, looking at the namete above the door. ¡°Isn¡¯t this Max¡¯s office?¡±


    Vonda swallowed nervously. Unsure how to answer, the door suddenly swung open again. Max stepped out, almost yelping in surprise at who was standing there.


    Max¡¯s expression turned to horror. ¡°Mom? Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Max!¡± Riley half eximed. ¡°I want to talk to you.¡±


    Max¡¯s answer left himpletely defenseless. ¡°Now?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I mention it on the phone this morning?¡± Riley asked.


    Max vividly remembered his conversation with Riley that morning.


    ~


    ¡°Oops! Yeah, you¡¯re right. Sorry if I went too far. Maybe we can get together, Max. We can meet soon. So, we can talk a little. Maybe your mind will open up.¡±


    ¡°Talking to you won¡¯t open my mind, Mom. In fact, it¡¯s the opposite. My mind will probably be even more clogged.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re something else, really. All right then. Let¡¯s continue this conversationter.¡±


    ~


    Max¡¯s eyes widened. His horrified expression intensified.


    ¡°You just mentioned this morning that we should meet soon, and now you show up outside my room this afternoon? Is that the ¡®soon¡¯ you are referring to?¡±


    Riley rolled her eyes. It was clear from her expression that Riley did not think her actions could cause Max to suddenly get a stomachache. But in reality, the boy did not suffer from stomach aches at all.


    ¡°Besides, it looks like I¡¯m really lucky. Meeting you and Vonda at the same time. Although I am actually quite surprised.¡± Riley looked at Vonda, who turned pale, and then at Max, who blushed in turn. ¡°Why did you twoe out of the same room?¡±


    Oh no! Vonda and Max exchanged trembling nces as if they felt the same.


    I¡¯m doomed.


    Meanwhile, where she stood, Sarah could only stare at the confusing scene before her.


    Is it because I¡¯m so hungry that my brain is slow, or are they all having a collective malfunction?


    ¡°Um, sorry.¡±


    Sarah¡¯s voice caught the attention of Vonda, Max, and Riley, who all turned to look at the elegant girl in the ck knee-length skirt. All three could see the genuine confusion on Sarah¡¯s petite face.


    ¡°Why do I feel so confused?¡±


    Riley tilted her head slightly. ¡°Confused?¡±


    Sarah raised a hand, pointing alternately at Vonda and Max as she asked,


    ¡°Since when do you and Mr. Hernandez share the same mother, Vonda?¡±


    Vonda fell silent. Max froze. Only Riley, brimming with confidence, lifted her chin and took charge of answering the question.


    ¡°Well, since they decided to get married soon.¡±


    Three pairs of eyes instantly widened.


    Three exmations were uttered simultaneously.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    *

 Insistence on Consideration

    Not just one person, maybe about seven people. Uh, or maybe you could say that almost everyone there was looking at one table.


    Located near the corner of the restaurant, the table was upied by a middle-aged woman with a rather entric appearance for her age, two young women dressed in office clothes, and a handsome young man who seemed to be in agony.


    It was not for nothing that all of the restaurant¡¯s patrons were fascinated by this table. The problem was that from the moment they entered, the four people at the table were engaged in such an enthusiastic conversation.


    ¡°Seriously, Vonda, are you and Maxing over this Sunday? I will be cooking a lot. If you don¡¯te, I¡¯ll send the food to disaster areas.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom. Yes, Mom. Don¡¯t worry. Vonda wille,¡± Max said as he tried to get Riley to get up from her seat. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean you can cook a lot of rice. Vonda is still a person, not a giant.¡±


    Ignoring Max¡¯s words, Riley continued to address Vonda. ¡°Dad can¡¯t wait to meet you, Vonda.¡±


    Vonda winced and nodded stiffly. ¡°Y-yes, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Mom,¡± Max coaxed next.


    Max felt so irritated that he wanted to carry Riley away. He did not care how people would perceive a son carrying his mother; he just wanted to get away.


    ¡°Come on. It¡¯s embarrassing to be seen by people, Mom.¡±


    Riley tried to wriggle out of Max¡¯s grip. ¡°Um, but actually, it¡¯s not just Dad who wants to meet you, Von. Kitty wants to meet you too. Kitty¡¯s kitten too.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Vonda grumbled with increasing frustration. ¡°Y-yes, Mom.¡±


    Now Max was really annoyed. ¡°Mom. Mom¡­.¡±


    Riley stared at Max, who was actually holding on to her to drag her out of the Mexican restaurant. She pped Max.


    ¡°You, seriously. It¡¯s a sin to forbid me from talking to her future daughter-inw. If not with my future mother-inw, who should I talk to?? The security at theplex?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom. Yes. But not like that. Aren¡¯t you embarrassed in front of people? And Sarah was watching us the whole time.¡±


    Riley looked at Sarah, who joined them for lunch that afternoon. It would not be polite for them to have lunch together without inviting Sarah after the surprising incident outside Max¡¯s room. The middle-aged woman put on an innocent expression and asked.


    ¡°Is it embarrassing to talk to my future daughter-inw, Sarah?¡±


    Sarah, ying with the straw in her iced tea ss, smiled broadly and shook her head. ¡°Well¡­ no. Absolutely not. I was like that before. In fact, it was worse. I was asked to stay at least one night a month. If I didn¡¯t want to, my future mother-inw would pick me up at home.¡±


    Max and Vonda both stared at Sarah. Then Riley said enthusiastically to Vonda.


    ¡°How about spending the night at our home, Vonda?¡±


    At that moment, Vonda felt like asking the owner of the Mexican Restaurant.


    Maybe the owner needs some internal organs to make a stew? There¡¯s a creature that needs to be sacrificed as soon as possible.


    Meanwhile, seeing the colorful expressions on Vonda and Max¡¯s faces, Sarah just shrugged her shoulders. She grinned mockingly, as if to imply a little teasing.


    Whose fault is it that no one was honest with me about such a big thing?


    *


    The strange thing was that Sarah acted as if nothing had happened. So, when she found herself being dragged by Sarah as they arrived at the parking lot, Vonda was not surprised.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think you owe me an exnation?¡± Sarah asked. ¡°Like when exactly did you and Hernandez start dating? Or ¡­ when¡¯s the engagement date? Or¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop!¡± Vonda nced around several times, worried that someone might overhear Sarah¡¯s words. ¡°Yeah, I know. Rx. I will tell you, of course.¡±


    Sarah folded her arms across her chest in a gesture of disbelief. ¡°Oh, yeah? Then when? When will you tell me? When the invitations go out? Like that? Or when you¡¯re about to go on your honeymoon?¡±


    Sarah¡¯s teasing look sessfully caught Vonda off guard. There was no need to ask; Sarah really was in a demanding mode.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll bribe HR to deny you honeymoon leave.¡±


    Vonda shrank immediately. ¡°Come on, it won¡¯t be like that, Sarah.¡±


    ¡°How won¡¯t it be like that?¡±


    With a pout on her face, Vonda knew this conversation would never end. Finally, she took the safe way out.


    ¡°Shall we talk over cake?¡±


    At least this offer might prolong Vonda¡¯s life in Sarah¡¯s eyes. They each got into their cars and drove to a cafe that was often their second choice when they wanted to rx for a while.


    Two pieces of cake and cold drinks were served shortly after they arrived. Vonda prayed in her heart that the small fork in Sarah¡¯s hand would not end up in her throat. At least not before she got to enjoy her honeymoon in the middle of a snowyndscape.


    ¡°So, are you ready to spill the beans?¡± Sarah asked without taking her eyes off the strawberry cake. The small fork in her hand cut a slice and she enjoyed a bite of the dessert.


    Vonda had not touched her pie yet. Instead, she decided to start exining everything to Sarah. From the first event where she and Max had met by chance at the CEO¡¯spany reception. The meeting that made Riley think they were in a rtionship.


    To the point where Max asked for Vonda¡¯s help to get out of an arranged marriage with Olivia. Of course, this was where Vonda omitted the fact that Max had threatened her with nude photos-photos that did not actually exist.


    After telling the whole story, Vonda found Sarah sitting silently with the small fork hanging in the air. Sarah stared for a moment.


    ¡°By the gods, Vonda Teresa.¡±


    She made a quick grimace and Vonda quickly corrected her. ¡°Vonda Raveena Scott,¡± she said. ¡°Besides, anyone would help someone in my position. Especially since I¡¯m the one who caused the problem. If I hadn¡¯t identally walked into his car, none of this would have happened.¡±


    Sarah nodded as she took another bite, but shook her head. She was stunned, absolutely stunned. ¡°Oh my God, really? But how could you help with something so important? This isn¡¯t an ordinary romance.¡±


    Vonda knew.


    ¡°Did you see how enthusiastic his mother was about your marriage?¡±


    Sarah¡¯s question made Vonda sigh deeply. Honestly, even without Sarah mentioning it, Vonda had already noticed.


    ¡°Well¡­ we¡¯ll find a way to end this rtionshipter. You don¡¯t have to worry,¡± Vonda assured her.


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Sarah shook her head, moving the fork in her hand as well. ¡°I¡¯m not really worried about it. Honestly, I¡¯m more worried about something else.¡±


    Vonda furrowed her brow. ¡°Something else?¡±


    Sarah confirmed with a single nod. She had hesitated to ask, but in the end, she was determined to voice the thoughts that had been troubling her since earlier.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I should ask. But it¡¯s better than wondering all the time, right?¡± Sarah took a deep breath. She looked at Vonda intently. ¡°Are you and Hernandez only involved because of the arranged marriage?¡±


    Vonda had a hard time understanding Sarah¡¯s question. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Sarah considered her words, thinking there was no more subtle way to phrase her next sentence. Although, in reality, she still managed to catch Vonda off guard.


    ¡°Friend with benefits,¡± Sarah said. ¡°You don¡¯t do that, do you?¡±All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Perhaps it was Sarah¡¯s look, or her question, or both, that made Vonda freeze. She remained still, staring at Sarah without blinking, until her friend put down her fork.


    Sarah pped her forehead in shock. ¡°Oh, shit! You did it.¡±


    Vonda tried to deny it, but the events of the previous night were still fresh in her mind.


    ¡°Oh my God, Vonda. How did you end up in a FWB situation with him?¡±


    Vonda winced. ¡°I¡­ it¡­ it just happened. I mean¡­ oh my gosh.¡±


    Vonda gave up. She did not know what to say. Nor did she know how to defend herself, for she was sure that Sarah was about to offer her advice.


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, Vonda. Do you seriouslyck a brain?¡± Sarah asked frustrated. ¡°How did you end up in a FWB situation? You know what? No matter who the guy is, FWB doesn¡¯t go with our culture.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ I know. It doesn¡¯t fit the norm-¡±


    ¡°No!¡±


    Sarah quickly cut Vonda off. She was so frustrated that she wanted to scream.


    ¡°It¡¯s not about morality or anything,¡± Sarah continued, staring wide-eyed. ¡°The problem is our culture, which is easily influenced by emotion.¡±


    Damn it!


    It felt like an arrow had been shot straight through Vonda¡¯s heart.


    ¡°You know what, Von? Comments with kissing emoticons can set people happy for a week. So, what about the FWB thing?¡±


    Vonda winced. Now her appetite for cake was gone. Reced by various uncertainties swirling in her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m not ming you or anything, but I just don¡¯t want you to suffer because of this FWB thing.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Sarah took a sip of her soda. ¡°Whatever you do is your responsibility. You¡¯re an adult. So, you need to know what you can and can¡¯t handle.¡±


    In silence, Vonda nodded her head.


    ¡°If you think you can control everything, go ahead,¡± Sarah continued. ¡°But if you feel things are getting out of control¡­¡± Sarah looked directly into Vonda¡¯s eyes. ¡°¡­ end it.¡±


    *

 Decision

    If yesterday it was Vonda who felt awkward and unsure of how to act after their romantic encounter, today it was the opposite. Max was the one experiencing all of these feelings.


    Actually, Max could already predict that he would be in an awkward position after yesterday¡¯s lunch incident. His head suddenly felt dizzy as he thought about what attitude he should have when he met Vonda this morning.


    What should I say to Vonda? She must feel so ufortable about what happened yesterday. And to make matters worse, Sarah was there to witness it. Ugh! This just gets moreplicated.


    These were some of the fleeting thoughts that had crossed Max¡¯s mind since earlier. Personally, he was not hoping for much this time. He would take it gracefully if Vonda did not want toe home with him.


    After all, what girl would not be scared in Vonda¡¯s shoes? They¡¯re not even official yet and she¡¯s being invited to his house.


    Max was one hundred percent sure that Vonda must have been scared by Riley¡¯s invitation yesterday. Something that actually made Max realize something.


    When has Mom ever sent out a normal invitation?


    Max¡¯s heart raced as he approached the office. He prepared himself.


    I¡¯ll talk to her. If she doesn¡¯t like it, she can refuse Mom¡¯s invitation. Besides, she doesn¡¯t have to feel ufortable or anything.


    Max opened the door and let it close on its own. He walked in and nced at Vonda who was getting up from her seat.


    This was clearly bad timing. Vonda was on her way to the pantry, not wanting to greet Max¡¯s arrival.


    ¡°Good morning, Max.¡±


    Vonda quicklyposed herself, adopting a casual demeanor that made Max sigh with relief.


    ¡°Uh.¡±


    Max was relieved by Vonda¡¯s attitude. Although¡­ notpletely relieved.


    ¡°Would you like some coffee?¡± Vonda approached Max. ¡°I¡¯m going to the pantry for a drink.¡±


    ¡°Coffee? Oh,¡± Max nodded quietly. ¡°Sure. Not too sweet, though.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Wait a minute. I¡¯ll bring it in.¡±


    Vonda left while Max immediately went into his room. He put his bag on the table and sat down. He checked a note with the list of tasks he had to do that day. At first nce, there were no heavy schedules waiting for him. Something for which Max was very grateful. At least his mental load would not increase.


    Ten minutes passed and there was a knock at Max¡¯s door. Vonda entered, carrying a tray with a cup of ck coffee and a jar of chocte chip cookies.


    ¡°I brought some snacks, too,¡± Vonda said as she ced the jar of snacks on Max¡¯s desk, next to the coffee she had already ced. ¡°Enjoy. And don¡¯t forget that five-star rating, Sir.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s words made Maxugh spontaneously. He, who had intended to take the first sip right away, put the coffee cup back on the coaster. He did not want to risk spilling coffee on his clothes fromughing.


    Vonda smiled yfully. ¡°In that case, enjoy your coffee and snacks. I¡¯m going back to my table.¡±


    Seeing Vonda about to leave, Max suddenly got up from his seat and hurried to intercept her.


    ¡°Wait, Von.¡±


    Vonda stopped and turned to find Max approaching her. Holding the tray to her chest, Vonda asked, ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Uh.¡± Max cleared his throat, rubbed his left temple briefly, and looked into her eyes. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡± Vonda blinked once in confusion. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    A grin appeared on Max¡¯s face. He smiled awkwardly. ¡°I guess I asked the wrong question.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? Why am I confused now?¡±


    ¡°I mean ¡­¡± Max took a quick breath. ¡°¡­ about yesterday. At lunch with Mom and Sarah.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes moved abstractly. Her expression seemed pensive. ¡°What about lunch yesterday?¡±


    ¡°You must have felt really ufortable, especially with Sarah there.¡±


    ¡°Oh. It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m fine.¡±


    But of course, Max did not think it was okay.


    ¡°Sarah must have asked you all kinds of questions about yesterday,¡± Max said with a hint of guilt.


    Vonda nodded weakly, not denying Max¡¯s words at all. ¡°Yes, but don¡¯t worry about her. You don¡¯t have to worry. She understands our situation. So, you don¡¯t have to think about anything strange.¡±


    Worried about Sarah? Well, Max was not sure. ording to him, that was not what was bothering him.


    ¡°Well, regardless¡­ I guess I still have to apologize,¡± Max continued. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for my mom¡¯s behavior. I know you have to understand what my mom¡¯s personality is like. Sometimes Mom can be over the top like that. But she shouldn¡¯t have gone too far in front of your friend.¡±


    Judging by the look on Max¡¯s face as he spoke, Vonda realized that he meant what he was saying. His words were not just casual or polite talk. More than that, there was a sense of difort in Max¡¯s tone.


    ¡°Why apologize?¡± Vonda smiled and shook her head once. ¡°I¡¯m fine, really. Besides, you don¡¯t have to worry about Sarah. Trust me. Sarah¡¯s life is even more over the top than your mom¡¯s.¡±


    Max fell silent and Vonda quickly corrected her statement.


    ¡°Well¡­ I¡¯m not saying your mom is over the top. It¡¯s just¡­¡±


    ¡°No-no.¡± Max shook his head, cutting Vonda off. ¡°My mom can be over the top sometimes. As her biological child, I¡¯ve been aware of that aspect of her for a long time.¡±


    ¡°Well, but the bottom line is, you don¡¯t have to apologize.¡±


    As if Max¡¯s words were meaningless to Vonda, she actually said the opposite, and of course it wasn¡¯t a lie.


    ¡°Instead of saying your mom is over the top, I think it¡¯s more like boundless enthusiasm,¡± Vonda said.


    Max stared, blinked once, and looked at Vonda as if she were a rare object in the world.


    ¡°Boundless enthusiasm?¡±


    Vonda nodded and chuckled. ¡°Well, any parent will do that when ites to their child¡¯s boyfriend or girlfriend. Besides, your mother¡¯s enthusiasm is a blessing to me. So, I don¡¯t have to worry about dinner next Sunday.¡±


    Max grinned unconsciously. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Vonda¡¯s chuckle faded, reced by a genuine smile on her face. She shook her head.


    ¡°Not just for dinner. Your mother¡¯s enthusiasm is truly a blessing. And I¡¯m sure that your future wife will be happiest woman. After all, she¡¯s getting a mother-inw like your mom.¡±


    Max blinked. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Okay, I have to return the tray now.¡±


    Without waiting, Vonda left Max¡¯s office immediately. But she did not go straight to the pantry. Instead, she reflexively leaned against the door of Max¡¯s room. Hugging the tray, Sarah¡¯s words echoed in her mind.


    ¡°If you think you can control everything, go ahead. But if you feel things are getting out of control, end it.¡±


    Vonda closed her eyes. She was grateful for the tray, which she had embraced without resistance. Not for anything else, but that strange fluttering made her worry that Max might hear it. She might be embarrassed.


    It¡¯s all because of Sarah. Talking about me getting emotional. Now I feel ufortable looking at him.


    Vonda took a deep breath and calmed herself.


    ¡°Just calm down. Max and I are only helping each other. I¡¯m not really losing anything,¡± Vonda decided. ¡°I can still control everything.¡±


    *


    After repeatedly asking for Vonda¡¯s decision, Max finally came to pick her up that Sunday night. He arrived around six o¡¯clock and immediately went to Max¡¯s parents¡¯ house.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    At first, they seemed rxed with each other. However, everything changed as they passed through the apartment¡¯s lobby. The reason was Rika, of course.


    ¡°There was a girl who said nothing going on. That¡¯s what she said, but every Sunday night they go out together. Ah don¡¯t forget about the plumber. It seems that there was a kind friend who fixed the sink. Uh ¡­ it¡¯s nice to have a good friend like that.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face and the tomato sauce-covered boiled shrimp looked indistinguishable. The same was true for Max. But at least Max was luckier because he did not live there.


    ¡°Rika sure talks like a leaky faucet.¡±


    Maxughed as he drove. Instead of responding to Vonda¡¯sment, he changed the subject. He kept the conversation light during the drive.


    Forty minutes passed unnoticed. Max¡¯s car came to a stop right in front of the driveway. At that moment, theughter and amused smiles that had resulted from their light conversation vanished. Reced by a nervousness that made Vonda¡¯s heart race.


    Damn it! Why am I so nervous?


    Max unbuckled his seatbelt, looked at Vonda, and spoke up.


    ¡°You recited the protection spell, right? I¡¯m afraid your soul will be shaken when you enter.¡±


    A joke that immediately brought a smile to Vonda¡¯s face. ¡°Of course. I hope I¡¯m still alive when I get back.¡±


    They got out of the car. Walking side by side, they approached the door. Max casually rang the doorbell and opened the door.


    ¡°Mom? Dad?¡±


    Max walked in, only realizing that Vonda was still standing at the threshold. So, he retraced his steps, shaking his head. He grabbed Vonda¡¯s right hand.


    ¡°This is my house. Juste in.¡±


    Vonda took a deep breath. ¡°Oh, okay.¡±


    At the right moment, footsteps were heard from inside. Vonda and Max both turned to see Riley approaching. But she was not alone. She was apanied by a middle-aged man, a cat and six kittens.


    ¡°Finally, my future daughter-inw is here.¡±


    As Max held her hand, Vonda swallowed nervously. The nine pairs of eyes staring at her made Vonda even more nervous.


    ¡°Meow.¡±


    A kitten approached Vonda and rubbed its furry body against her legs. Vonda, who was wearing a loose knee-length dress that night, felt ticklish.


    Riley stepped forward, picked up the kitten, and said, ¡°Rimbo really knows beautiful girls,¡± ncing at Max. ¡°Looks like you got somepetition, Max.¡±


    Crash!


    ¡°I¡¯mpeting with a cat?¡± Max asked incredulously. He turned to Vonda. ¡°Are you choosing me or the cat?¡±


    Blinking, Vonda¡¯s eyes looked innocent as she said, ¡°Well¡­ that cat is really cute.¡±


    Laughter erupted. Only Max seemed to pout.


    Seriously. I lost to a cat, huh?


    *

 Variety of Emotions 1

    ¡°Vonda, Sir.¡±


    Vonda introduced herself as she shook hands with Max¡¯s father, Edmund Hernandez. His appearance was fresh despite a few strands of white hair on top of his head. He smiled broadly and seemed pleased with Vonda¡¯s polite introduction. Although Riley¡¯s reaction was quite the opposite.


    Riley made a face as he yed with one of Rimbo¡¯s legs, moving it as if Rimbo were scratching.


    ¡°Why call him ¡®Sir¡¯? He¡¯s my husband, not a ¡®Sir.''¡±


    Edmundughed, while Vonda touched her neck reflexively, feeling embarrassed and realizing she needed to correct her address.


    ¡°V-Vonda, Dad.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes, yes,¡± Edmund nodded, lightening the mood with a question. ¡°So, you¡¯re the one who suggested Mom change her hair color?¡±


    Vonda grinned after looking at Riley¡¯s hair. ¡°Makes Mom look even more beautiful, doesn¡¯t it, Dad?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Edmund replied. ¡°You have a good eye. You know what suits Mom.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Still holding Rimbo, Riley chimed in. ¡°Vonda has a good eye, Dad. Proof is she picked Max. That¡¯s clear evidence that Vonda makes good choices, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Ahem!¡± Max cleared his throat, not wanting to prolong a conversation that might embarrass him. He quickly changed the subject. ¡°Shall we eat, Mom? What has you cooked?¡±


    Vonda smiled as she watched Max¡¯s face turn to embarrassment at Riley¡¯s words. Fortunately, Vonda did not want to make the atmosphere any more awkward, so she joined in.


    ¡°Oh, right! That¡¯s right. Mom said she would cook a lot when I came over, right?¡±


    Riley nodded, releasing Rimbo and taking Vonda¡¯s hand to lead her inside.


    ¡°Mom made dendeng batokok, just like she promised. Mom got the recipe from a Padang native. It¡¯s guaranteed to be delicious.¡±


    Max breathed a sigh of relief at the sight. He stopped and watched the scene.


    Riley was so happy. Holding on to Vonda¡¯s arm, they headed for the dining area. The same was true for Edmund. To liven up the atmosphere, seven cats trailed behind them, meowing, and making a ruckus.


    It was really lively and made Max pause for a moment. Only when Vonda turned and waved at him did he join in.


    Momentster, the four of them were seated at the table. The waiter arrived and served the appetizer, a Caprese sd. It consisted of slices of fresh tomatoes, mozzare, and basil leaves drizzled with a touch of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and ck pepper. It was a truly refreshing appetizer, especially since the main course for dinner was the sirloin steak.


    It was time to enjoy the delicious slices of grilled meat. Apanied by smooth mashed potatoes with butter and milk, served with steak sauce. Grilled asparagus was also included toplete the meal.


    A chocteva cake was served for dessert. A chocteva cake with a soft and melted center was indeed the perfect choice, especially as they began to engage in rxed conversation.


    Riley offered Vonda another piece of chocteva cake on her te. She said at that moment.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect you two to actually work in the same office. Sharing a workspace, even in adjacent rooms. The boss and the deputy. Oh my!¡± Riley nced at Vonda and Max alternately. ¡°You two are really something. You haven¡¯t even told Mom about this.¡±


    Vonda chuckled and happily epted the third piece of chocteva cake. Next to her, Max had to hold back hisughter.


    Is she a food lover or just really hungry?


    ¡°You didn¡¯t ask, did you?¡± Vonda said lightly. ¡°If you had asked where I worked, well¡­ I would have told her.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Riley grumbled with a mock annoyed expression. ¡°You¡¯re so good at answering me.¡±


    Edmundughed. ¡°Vonda is right. You should have asked in the first ce,¡± he said, turning to Vonda. ¡°So, did you two date before or after Max moved here?¡±


    ¡°Um.¡±


    Vonda nearly choked on the piece of dumpling. Max quickly offered her a drink. At that moment, their eyes met, as if silentlymunicating to decide on the same answer. But a momentter it was Riley¡¯s voice that was heard.


    ¡°They must have been together before Max moved here, Hon.¡±


    Vonda and Max both looked at Riley. They blinked in unison with innocent expressions.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Riley smiled. ¡°I think so. Did Max reallye all the way out here and leave his car collection just to help Lucas?¡± he asked. ¡°Even I, his biological mother, doubt that my son can be that good. It would be like the end of the world.¡±


    ¡°Ahem!¡±


    Out of nowhere, Max suddenly coughed when he heard Riley¡¯s words. This time it was Vonda who quickly handed Max a drink.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Edmund nodded and looked at his wife. ¡°That¡¯s true. He was very eager yesterday, saying he wanted to take care of his antique carpany, right?¡±


    ¡°An antique carpany?¡± Max raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s just seeing a market opportunity, Dad. The longer this goes on, the more antique car enthusiasts there will be in Oceana. I might as well start a spare parts business.¡±


    ¡°Still enthusiastic about cars, I see. Tsk tsk! Trying to change the subject,¡± Edmund teased. ¡°So, what does that mean?¡±


    Riley chuckled and looked at her husband. ¡°Well, it means that it¡¯s now proven that they¡¯ve been together for a while. On the night of Lucas¡¯ party, it was clear that I saw Vonda get into Max¡¯s car. That¡¯s another piece of evidence that they¡¯ve been dating.¡±


    Oh my. Vonda tried to smile, though it felt forced.


    ¡°So,¡± Riley continued, ying with the spoon in her hand, ncing briefly at Max and then at Vonda. ¡°We can say that Max went out of his way to help Lucas only because of Vonda. So that he could see Vonda more often.¡±


    Wow!


    In his heart, Max was already apuding like a cheerleader at a basketball game. He marveled at his mother¡¯s ability to draw conclusions out of thin air.


    Mom is really amazing at drawing conclusions from nothing.


    *

 Variety of Emotions 2

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Von?¡±


    Vonda blinked twice. Her awkward smile suddenly froze into a terrifying expression. In Max¡¯s eyes, that expression looked exactly like someone in desperate need of a bathroom break.


    Max took a deep breath and prepared to protest. ¡°Mom¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you could say that, Mom.¡±


    Huh?


    Max turned to Vonda, who had interrupted him. She spoke as she closed her spoon and fork in the middle of her already empty te.


    ¡°Because, how can I put it, Mom?¡± Vonda gave the middle-aged woman a teasing look. ¡°We¡¯re still young. Can we handle a long-distance rtionship for a long time?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Riley and Edmund¡¯sughter erupted. It was both pleasant and torturous for the middle-aged couple, considering that they were no longer young. They were torn between wanting to keepughing or risk choking on the red beans in the chicken stew. They finally gave in.


    After dinner, while two housekeepers cleaned the dirty dishes, Riley energetically dragged Vonda along. Seeing this, Edmund, who had originally wanted to chat with Max-since his son had not been home in a while-abandoned his original intention. Instead, he followed Riley and Vonda, who seemed to be heading for a room.


    ¡°I made this for you, Von. That¡¯s why I really wanted you toe over.¡±


    ¡°W-what?¡± Though confused, Vonda still followed Riley¡¯s lead. ¡°What did you prepare?¡±


    Edmund¡¯s voice could be heard behind them. ¡°You better like it, Von. I was so tired from apanying her to find this item all over the ce.¡±


    Looking back over her shoulder, Vonda questioned Edmund. ¡°What item, Dad?¡±


    Riley opened the bedroom door. ¡°An item for my future daughter-inw.¡±


    Riley let Vonda and Edmund sit on the avable sofa in the room. Meanwhile, she went over to the wardrobe. Opening a door, she pulled out a knee-length dress. She showed it to Vonda, who immediately felt overwhelmed.


    This isn¡¯t an heirloom dress, is it?


    The feeling of panic was not unfounded. Vonda trembled as she stood and reached for the lc dress. Simple in design, the dress looked incredibly elegant. With sleeves that reached her elbows, the dress red at the bottom and tapered at the top. Thebination of chiffon and brocade seemed perfect for a young woman like herself.


    Please, God, don¡¯t let this be a dress from Max¡¯s great-great-grandmother.


    Of course, the modern dress was not an heirloom, as Vonda had feared. Riley exinedter.


    ¡°Do you remember Via? Olivia.¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°What about her, Mom?¡±


    ¡°Since her engagement to Max was called off, her younger sister wants to get engaged first,¡± Riley replied. ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, Edeline is getting engaged next month.¡±


    Huh. Vonda still didn¡¯t understand the connection with the dress.


    ¡°So, you¡¯ll have toe to her engagement party.¡±


    Finally, Vonda understood. ¡°I a-attend?¡±


    It was Edmund who answered Vonda¡¯s hesitant question. His face was full of enthusiasm.


    ¡°Of course, you muste, Von.¡±


    Riley nodded energetically. ¡°So, I can introduce you to my friends.¡±


    Vonda froze.


    Introduce me to her friends?


    As this question spun around in her head, Vonda could see the radiant joy on Riley and Edmund¡¯s faces. Their eyes were sparkling. Unconsciously, Vonda clutched the dress in her hands.


    *


    It was almost ten when Max¡¯s car pulled up next to Vonda¡¯s apartment. ncing around, Max could see that the atmosphere was still lively. That was not unusual, considering it was a Sunday night.


    Max turned to Vonda, who was in the passenger seat. She was silent. Max¡¯s brow furrowed, as if he had just realized that Vonda had barely spoken during the ride back.


    ¡°Vonda?¡±


    Max called Vonda¡¯s name quietly. Vonda turned and unbuckled her seatbelt, offering a smile.


    ¡°Thanks for tonight, Max,¡± Vonda said.


    Max¡¯s eyes met Vonda¡¯s. He sensed that something was wrong with her.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Max asked, unbuckling his seat belt and turning slightly to face her. ¡°You seem a little different.¡± He studied Vonda more closely. ¡°Did something happen at dinner? Did my parents say something to you?¡±


    Vonda remained silent, but slowly bit her lower lip. Her action only increased Max¡¯s curiosity.


    ¡°My mom must have said something that¡­¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips tightened as she shook her head, causing Max to stop in mid-sentence. But her head shake did not ease Max¡¯s concerns. In fact, it had the opposite effect.


    Max became more alert to all possible scenarios. But he understood. He could not force Vonda to talk right away. He had to take it slow.


    ¡°And then?¡± Max asked carefully. ¡°Why do you look so desperate?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    Max sensed a change in Vonda¡¯s voice. And before he could fullyprehend the situation, he suddenly saw a tear rolling down her cheek.


    ¡°Vonda?¡± Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    Vonda quickly wiped away the tear. ¡°I¡­¡± Her teary eyes met Max¡¯s. ¡°Thank you, Max.¡±


    ¡°W-what? Thank you?¡± Max asked panicked. ¡°What are you thanking me for that you¡¯re crying like that?¡±


    Another tear rolled down her cheek. Oddly enough, Vonda let out a soft chuckle at that moment.


    ¡°I¡¯m really happy tonight.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s words and expression left Max speechless. He stood still as he watched Vonda wipe away her tears again, her smile seeming different.


    ¡°Not because of the dinner or the dress I got, but¡­¡±


    Once again Vonda could not finish her sentence. But Max seemed to understand.


    ¡°Because of my parents, right?¡± Max asked.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Vonda nodded twice. She could not say anything else. She tried to hold back her mncholy sobs.


    Max smiled and moved slightly, stretching out his arms.


    ¡°Come here.¡±


    Vonda chuckled through her tears and smile. But she epted his offer of a hug. Max gently stroked Vonda¡¯s back.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful too. For making my parents happy tonight.¡±


    Without words, but by burying her face in Max¡¯s chest, Vonda¡¯s arms tightened around his body. She took a deep breath of his scent, wanting to imprint that masculine aroma on every nerve in her olfactory system. She nned to remember this sensation for an indefinite period of time, not knowing how long it wouldst.


    *

 Just About

    Somehow, about half an hourter, this happened. Max was sitting in Vonda¡¯s living room, holding her in his arms. He was still trying to calm her emotional turmoil, with one hand constantly running soothing strokes down her back.


    Smiling slightly, Max felt a mixture of emotions. There was a sense of tenderness and amusement. So, it was not surprising that Max chuckled a few momentster.


    Vonda stopped sobbing. She lifted her face to look at Max and pout.


    ¡°You¡¯reughing? I¡¯m here crying and you¡¯reughing, Max? Seriously.¡±


    Max looked away, trying to hold back hisughter. But he could not help it. Finally, he spoke with a tone of amusement.


    ¡°I had no idea you could be so melodramatic, Von. Seriously, I never expected it. I mean, crying over something like that? How can I not find that funny?¡±


    Max¡¯s words made Vonda pout even more. ¡°Even though I may look like this, my heart is actually gentle, you know. Just like any girl¡¯s heart. What girl wouldn¡¯t be touched if she were in my position?¡±


    Max grinned, and Vonda yfully pinched his stomach, not too hard.


    ¡°You¡¯re annoying, you know that? I told you, and yet this is how you react.¡±


    Max looked at Vonda¡¯s pouting face. The tip of her nose was red, there were traces of tears on her cheeks, and her eyes still looked slightly moist.


    Exhaling once, Max stood up. He asked a question.


    ¡°Would you like something to drink? I¡¯ll get it for you to make you feel better. What would you like?¡±


    Still holding her pout, Vonda began her answer with a fake sigh. ¡°Tsk tsk tsk! Just like you, the owner of this device.¡±


    Max put his hands on his hips andughed. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve been waiting for a while and you haven¡¯t taken the initiative to offer me a drink. My throat is parched.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re such a character,¡± Vonda muttered yfully. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take you up on your offer. Um¡­ I have some juice in the fridge. How about that? You can take whatever you want. Check in the back and take whatever you want.¡±


    Max bent his body slightly, mimicking the posture of a medieval British royal servant. He spoke in a formal tone.


    ¡°Yes, mydy.¡±


    As Vonda chuckled, Max grinned and stood up. He walked to the kitchen and indeed found a carton of juice in the refrigerator, just as Vonda had mentioned. Mango juice to be exact.


    Max was not sure what the rules were about drinking juice at night, but he prepared a ss of the orange-colored drink anyway. As for himself, he simply chose water for the sake of convenience.


    As he was about to close the refrigerator door, something caught Max¡¯s attention. It brought a meaningful grin to his face.


    In the living room, Vonda pulled some tissues off the table to wipe away her tear stains and calm herself. She reached for the gift box that contained the dress Riley had given her earlier and peered inside with a smile before setting it aside.


    The sound of Max¡¯s footsteps made Vonda look up. Her eyebrows furrowed slightly as she saw the tray Max was carrying while he had an innocent grin on his face.


    ¡°When I was closing the fridge earlier,¡± Max said as he approached Vonda, ¡°I felt like I heard a call. Something like, ¡®Max, aren¡¯t you going to eat me? I taste so good!''¡±


    Vonda burst outughing. ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I brought these cupcakes,¡± Max continued, setting the tray on the table.


    Vonda looked at the cupcakes in front of them. Max had thoughtfully prepared two tes of cupcakes for her. However, Vonda could clearly see that one te had more cupcakes than the other-a ratio of one to three.


    Max grinned. ¡°Boys always eat more, by the way.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Boys always eat more. Especially since we had dessert earlier, that piece of cake.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness. You¡¯re right!¡±


    Vonda chuckled softly. She decided to take a sip of the mango juice before reaching for her cupcake, starting with a small forkful.


    ¡°I bought these cupcakes a few days ago when I was chatting with Sarah. It¡¯s a good thing you picked them up. Otherwise, I might have forgotten that I bought cupcakes yesterday.¡±


    Speaking of her conversation with Sarah, Vonda actually lost her appetite for cupcakes because of the topic of their conversation. So, she decided to buy a box of cupcakes to take home.


    With its luxuriousyers of chocte cream and decorated with cherry pieces, Vonda thought she would enjoy the cupcake over the weekend. And she was not wrong. After all, she did enjoy the cupcake over the weekend, didn¡¯t she? Specifically, on a Sunday night with Max.


    ¡°So, it looks like my weekend schedule for the next month is already starting to fill up,¡± Vonda said, taking a deep breath. ¡°For attending people¡¯s happy asions.¡±


    Max took a big bite and chewed quickly, swallowing enthusiastically.


    ¡°My mom must have talked to you about Via¡¯s sister¡¯s engagement party, right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why your mom gave me the dress,¡± Vonda replied, nodding. ¡°But it¡¯s not just the engagement party. It¡¯s also Kania¡¯s engagement party.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s tongue slipped between her lips to catch the sweet cream residue left on her upper lip.


    ¡°Ah, yes, your sister¡¯s engagement.¡± Max nodded. ¡°Will you be attending Via¡¯s sister¡¯s party?¡±


    Asking this question, Max stared at Vonda without blinking. His gaze was fixed on her, observing herfort as she pulled her legs up onto the sofa and sat in an almost cross-legged position.


    Vonda seemed to forget that she was wearing a knee-length dress. A slight movement of her legs might expose the dress and reveal her smooth skin.


    The possibility made Max take a hasty deep breath and decide to focus on the cake on his te.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll be there. Besides, your mother gave me this beautiful dress. It would be a shame not to wear it.¡±


    Another big bite and Max¡¯s cupcake was gone, leaving an empty te. He set the empty te on the table and switched to his ss of water, drinking it all.


    ¡°Just the food and just the dress,¡± Maxmented. ¡°What else?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s head lifted in a spontaneous burst ofughter that she could not contain at Max¡¯s question. Fortunately, she had already put her te on the table, so herughter did not make a mess of cake crumbs on the sofa.


    ¡°If food alone can make me happy, why bother thinking about anything else, right?¡± Vonda asked, lowering her face again. ¡°And when I think about it, I¡¯ve beenughing a lottely.¡±


    Max seemed to agree, watching her closely.


    ¡°But it¡¯s better tough a lot than to cry a lot, isn¡¯t it?¡± Vonda continued. ¡°If little things can bring happiness, why not just enjoy them?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­ like this?¡± Max asked, looking at the remains of their food and drink on the table. Empty sses and her two empty cupcake tes.


    ¡°Just like that,¡± Vonda nodded in agreement. ¡°I just noticed it too. It may seem trivial. Just chatting and snacking. But don¡¯t you find it quite pleasant?¡±


    Max did not answer the question verbally. He simply smiled; his gaze fixed on Vonda¡¯sughing face.


    Max noticed the feminine line of Vonda¡¯s exposed neck more often than usual when she unconsciously lifted her head. He also noticed when she put a hand to her mouth and when she closed her eyes.


    The next moment, when Vonda¡¯s eyes opened again, herughter immediately stopped, frozen more out of embarrassment when she realized that Max had been silently watching herugh all by herself. It made her feel ufortable.


    ¡°W-w-why are you looking at me like that?¡±


    Max blinked rhythmically once before giving Vonda a quick nod.


    ¡°Max,¡± Vonda whispered, her eyes narrowing. ¡°Why?¡±


    Max¡¯s lips curled at two different corners to form a crooked smile. He exhaled first.


    ¡°Not really. I just think I¡¯ve realized something, too.¡±


    Vonda blinked once. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I think seeing youugh is ¡®just about¡¯ something, too.¡±


    ¡°Is it?¡±


    Only that word escaped Vonda¡¯s lips. Max¡¯s gaze had erased all the ticklish and exuberant remnants of herughter in an instant. Reced by an unfamiliar aura that surrounded her so quickly. As if it had trapped her in a sensation that was difficult to describe in words.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Max stared straight into Vonda¡¯s eyes. Without blinking, his expression made Vonda¡¯s body tingle without warning. It made it hard for her to breathe.


    Swallowing hard, Vonda gripped the sofa and tried to find her voice.


    ¡°Max,¡± Vonda murmured hoarsely. ¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that.¡±


    In front of her, Max¡¯s demeanor wasn¡¯t much different from Vonda¡¯s. His Adam¡¯s apple bobbed up and down with a resigned expression.


    ¡°Believe me, Von. I¡¯ve tried.¡±


    His honesty made Vonda feel a sudden flush in her body. It made her feel restless with a surge of passion. Then the warmth came unexpectedly. Like a spark in the dry grass. Igniting into a fierce ze in the blink of an eye. Igniting two ordinary breaths into fervent ones.


    Then they both moved simultaneously, meeting in a sweet kiss. Like an unspoken oath, promising that they would navigate a long night together.


    *

 Amazing 1

    A pleasant morning. There were no work schedules that required an immediate wake-up, and no ringing phone due to mom¡¯s habit of pestering him. Beyond that¡­ there was the warm body of someone who gave him a different feeling when he opened his eyes.


    Vonda was in his embrace, still sound asleep, her hair all tangled. Her breathing was steady. Quite unlikest night, before they both fell asleep from exhaustion.


    Max exhaled and looked up at the ceiling, realizing it was the second time he¡¯d seen the same ceiling. It had be quite familiar.


    For a few moments Max stayed still. He let their naked bodies, covered by the nket, continue to warm each other intimately.


    He could feel it. One of Vonda¡¯s legs was lifted and resting on his, and her hand was still on his stomach. Meanwhile¡­ her face was nestled against his chest.


    This situation made Max¡¯s chest pound. His heart was pounding and he quickly tried to calm down.


    ¡°Ehm.¡±


    A long yawn from Vonda¡¯s lips made Max shift his gaze. In his embrace, Vonda squirmed. She lifted her face and opened her eyes the next moment. Then she smiled.


    ¡°Good morning.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice sounded hoarse as she greeted Max, causing a goofy smile to appear on his face.


    ¡°I thought you weren¡¯t going to wake up.¡±


    Vonda chuckled softly. ¡°I thought you were gone.¡±


    Max blinked. ¡°You can think while still half asleep?¡±


    A question that made Vondaugh. ¡°Not really, Max,¡± she sighed. ¡°Just for a few seconds when I started to wake up¡­ I thought you weren¡¯t here. You were gone, like the other day.¡±


    Max understood what Vonda meant. ¡°Sorry. I had to run to the office then.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Vonda whispered as she slipped out of Max¡¯s embrace. She sat up and grabbed the nket to cover her chest. ¡°You want some breakfast or something?¡±


    Max sat up as well, running his hand through his hair, which was just as disheveled as Vonda¡¯s. At that moment, he looked down at his fingers and noticed that not a single strand of hair had been lost.


    Hmm. Quite remarkable. Considering how hard she pulled my hairst night; I thought I might be bald this morning.


    ¡°Breakfast?¡± Max grinned. ¡°Who would turn that down?¡±


    Vonda stood up and struggled to pick up something from the floor, which turned out to be her bra. She quickly put it on and then turned to her panties, which were not far from where she had found her bra earlier.


    Vonda stood there wearing only these two pieces of clothing. Facing Max, who was getting his shirt from the nightstand.


    ¡°Um¡­ did you know? The other day when I left your ce in a hurry¡­ I was actually wearing your shirt.¡±


    Max held his shirt with one hand, apparently not nning to put it on just yet, as he was more interested in Vonda¡¯s words.


    ¡°Yeah, I know. My closet was a bit of a mess,¡± Max said. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±


    Without answering Max¡¯s question, Vonda sauntered over to the closet. She opened one of the doors, crouched down, and pulled out three pieces of clothing.


    ¡°Wow! My clothes!¡±


    Vondaughed. ¡°Instead of that shirt, you better wear this t-shirt,¡± she said, handing the clothes to Max. ¡°It¡¯s morefortable.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely, absolutely, absolutely.¡± Max took it with a chuckle. ¡°I never thought I¡¯d actually lose my clothes.¡±


    ¡°Typical! As for the flip-flops, don¡¯t worry. I actually kept them in the shoe closet by the door.¡±


    Originally, Vonda had nned to throw away these clothes and sandals. But she changed her mind, and Vonda was grateful.


    A momentter, Vonda was wearing afortable t-shirt and shorts. After washing her face, she spoke to Max.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be in the kitchen.¡±


    Max nodded once and grabbed his phone. He checked a few things before deciding to get up. He washed his face and followed Vonda into the kitchen.


    Vonda was taking rice out of the rice cooker after preparing cabbage, onions, and pepper for seasoning.


    ¡°I hope you¡¯re not allergic to fried rice in the morning.¡±


    Max approached and noticed that eggs and sausage were also being prepared. There was also a bowl of sliced papaya.


    ¡°Not at all,¡± Max replied, reaching for the bowl of papaya, and taking a piece with a fork. ¡°Honestly, fried rice is much more respectable than the pizza that almost turned into crackers.¡±


    Vonda set the rice down near the stove and frowned. ¡°Pizza crackers?¡±


    Max chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s because the pizza went in and out of the refrigerator and microwave several times. Well¡­ let¡¯s call them pizza-vored crackers or crispy pizza.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re something else,¡± Vonda said as she prepared a ss of water and handed it to Max. ¡°Drink this first.¡±


    Max grinned. He realized that he should start his day with a ss of water instead of diving into a piece of papaya.


    As Max enjoyed the papaya at the kitchen ind, Vonda reached for a teddy bear patterned apron. She put it on and got ready to cook.


    The distinct aroma of sauteed spices wafted through the air. Max, who was tasting the papaya, immediately started to sneeze. The same happened to Vonda. As a result, their sneezes seemed to be in response to each other, and they both burst outughing.


    Fortunately, the olfactory torture did notst long. In less than ten minutes, two tes of fried rice were served between them.


    The breakfast wasplete. There were eggs, sausages, tomato slices, and a few lettuce leaves. Judging by its appearance, Max was willing to bet that it would not disappoint in taste.


    Vonda pulled out a chair and sat down at the kitchen ind. She smiled meaningfully as Max grinned at his breakfast te.


    ¡°I remember. Boys always eat more.¡±Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Vonda¡¯s words managed to make Max look up and burst intoughter.


    ¡°So¡­¡±


    Max¡¯s voice sounded between bites of fried rice. He took a slice of tomato and devoured it in one bite.


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯ve heard it before. They say it¡¯s not good to have a te of fried rice for breakfast.¡±


    Vonda reached for another cracker. ¡°Really? I didn¡¯t know that.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m telling you. Eating a te of fried rice for breakfast isn¡¯t good,¡± Max said confidently, narrowing his eyes. ¡°What is good is having two tes of fried rice for breakfast.¡±


    Fortunately, Vonda did not choke on her food. But herughter exploded.


    *

 Amazing 2

    That afternoon, Vonda walked down the hallway of her office floor. The clock on her wrist showed it was ten minutes past twelve. Lunch break had already begun, and she picked up her pace. Sarah was waiting for her in the office cafeteria.


    ¡°Pssst. Pssst.¡±


    Vonda furrowed her brow. She was just passing through a room where the employees of her department were.


    The room was spacious. Big enough to hold about forty employees in their respective cubicles. At the door, three female employees smiled at Vonda in unison.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Ma¡¯am.¡±


    Vonda smiled back. ¡°Good afternoon.¡±


    As she continued on her way, Vonda heard a faint sigh of relief from behind her. It was as if the three employees were relieved. Vonda muttered to herself.


    ¡°Afraid I was going to scold them, huh?¡±


    Arriving at the office cafeteria, Vonda immediately spotted Sarah. She was sitting at a table with her lunch already served.


    ¡°Just as you requested,¡± Sarah said as she watched Vonda pull out a chair. ¡°Sd with fried chicken.¡±


    Vonda smiled, picked up her te, and took her first bite, savoring the delicious taste that immediately greeted her taste buds.


    ¡°Okay, if I remember correctly,¡± Sarah continued after taking a sip of her iced tea. ¡°Kania¡¯s engagement is next week, right?¡±


    A small drop of sauce clung to her lips. Vonda noticed and grabbed a tissue to wipe it off before answering Sarah¡¯s question, nodding briefly.


    ¡°Yeah. You¡¯reing, right? Mom asked about you.¡±


    Sarah scooped up some soup and sipped at it, sighing as the various spices tantalized her taste buds.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. It¡¯s just¡­ well, Von. I don¡¯t think I can stay overnight. Lili¡¯s been a little fussytely.¡±


    Understanding, Vonda nodded. ¡°Maybe Lili knows that she¡¯s going to have a sibling soon. So, she¡¯s getting jealous in advance.¡±


    ¡°Tsk! You¡¯re something else. Besides, I still don¡¯t know if those five sets of lingerie from yesterday were a sess or not.¡±


    Vonda nearly spit out sd she had in her mouth. Sheughed while Sarah lookedpletely serious.


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t it been about a month?¡±


    Sarah shook her head. ¡°Only three weeks.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes rolledzily in response. She clicked her tongue as she looked at Sarah again.


    ¡°Well, you could check, I suppose. All you have to do is buy a testpack.¡±


    ¡°Maybe not that easy. Besides, I get nervous every time I have to check. I can¡¯t wait for the results, Von.¡±


    Vondaughed. ¡°Well, you¡¯re happy about it, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    A mischievous grin appeared on Sarah¡¯s face. ¡°Of course, I am. I mean, I¡¯m not just happy about the uh-oh part?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re something else.¡±


    A ring interrupted Vonda and Sarah¡¯s casual conversation. It came from Vonda¡¯s phone in the form of a video call from Riley.


    It got Vonda¡¯s attention again. In the past few days, Riley had not invited her to a video call through her phone¡¯s screen.


    ¡°Hey, am I bothering you at lunch again?¡±


    Vonda shook her head. ¡°No, not at all, Mom. I¡¯m done eating.¡±


    Riley let out a long sigh. ¡°Uh. Thank goodness. I was really looking forward to hearing from you. It¡¯s been a while since we had a video call.¡±


    ¡°You must be busy, right? Too busy to remember me.¡±


    Across the table, Sarah simply remained silent, watching her friend deepen her conversation with Riley.


    For a friends-with-benefits rtionship, you¡¯ve gone too far, Von. Tsk tsk tsk! I bet you a new pair of lingerie you, can¡¯t handle it.


    Sarah decided to go back to enjoying her chicken soup, still keeping her ears tuned to the conversation between the two women of different ages.


    ¡°Not very busy, but uhm maybe a little busy. My friends and I are nning to start a business.¡±


    ¡°Wow! Impressive!¡±


    Riley blushed at Vonda¡¯s spontaneous praise. ¡°You¡¯re even more impressive,¡± she said. ¡°Um, actually, I called you because I want you toe over, Von.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Is there an event, Mom?¡±


    ¡°Not really. I just want to chat. Um¡­ how abouting here next Saturday? I wanted you toe this week, but I have to do something with my friends. So, let¡¯s make it next Saturday. What do you say?¡±


    When Vonda thought about it, she had just been at Max¡¯s house a few days ago. It had only been a week. And now Riley wanted to see her again?


    Despite this reality, meeting Riley was not a bad idea. Vonda liked it, but¡­


    ¡°How about next Sunday, Ma?¡±


    Riley¡¯s face showed a hint of disappointment. ¡°Why? Are you busy?¡±


    ¡°Well, you know. My sister¡¯s engagement is next Friday night. So, I guess I should go home.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Riley¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°So that means Max ising with you?¡±


    Vonda looked surprised. ¡°W-what?¡±


    ¡°Yes, of course he should go home with you,¡± Riley said enthusiastically. ¡°Later I¡¯ll have Max talk to your parents about your rtionship, okay?¡±


    This time Vonda¡¯s eyes widened and Sarah in front of her just shook her head. As if she was not surprised at all.


    I told you, Von. Our people are emotional. Especially those mothers who only have one child. Especially if that child is already in the marriageable age range.


    While Sarah seemed calm, Vonda was the opposite. She looked like a fish out of water, gasping for air, trying to stay afloat.


    ¡°Mom, this-¡±


    ¡°Just stay calm, Vonda,¡± Riley said firmly. ¡°You¡¯reing back this time, so this can also be a moment for Max to have a serious talk with your parents.¡±


    Vonda was horrified.


    ¡°Basically, Max has toe. Just calm down, okay?¡±


    ¡°Mo-¡±


    Riley smiled triumphantly. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll call Max.¡±


    This made Vonda even more anxious.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    Vonda tried to stop her, but the video call was disconnected. Now Vonda could do nothing but stare nkly at her darkened phone screen.


    ¡°Um!¡±


    Sarah¡¯s sigh got Vonda¡¯s attention. Sarah seemed rxed and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s the guy now?¡±


    Vonda blinked briefly and answered nkly. ¡°I think he¡¯s eating at his favorite Mexican restaurant.¡±


    Sarah nodded in understanding while Vonda¡¯s mind wandered. She imagined Riley calling Max while he was eating. The shock of Riley¡¯s demand could be fatal for Max.


    What if he choked on a whole of burrito?


    The image of Max struggling with a piece of beef intestine stuck in his throat made Vonda cringe.


    ¡°Oh my God!¡±


    *

 Each Other鈥檚 Mind

    The only reason Max never ate in the office cafeteria was because he knew he would only be working there temporarily. So, he decided not to blend in too much and preferred to eat lunch elsewhere. He also felt a little ufortable when other employees greeted him just to talk about Lucas.


    Fortunately, Max found a Mexican restaurant to his liking. As for the taste, don¡¯t even ask. Max¡¯s consistent visits there were solid evidence that both the food and the service were excellent.


    For lunch, Max ordered fajitas. He enjoyed the menu while observing the typical lunchtime bustle; busy and very active.


    Ding!


    Max reached into his pocket and pulled out his ringing cell phone. He saw Riley on a video call.


    ¡°Hello, Mom.¡±


    Max answered the video call and greeted his mother casually. Not out of rudeness, but because Max¡¯s attention was still focused on his fajitas; the grilled slices of meat were truly delicious. He reached for another bite, swallowed arge mouthful, and heard Riley¡¯s voice on the other end.


    ¡°You¡¯re going home with Vonda next week. Ask her parents when Vonda can be proposed to and how much they want for the engagement.¡±


    Gulp!


    ¡°Uhuk!¡±


    Max was startled. His body lost control. A piece of barbecued meat slid prematurely down his throat and then got stuck.


    Max choked. His eyes widened and he gasped for air.


    Hastily, Max put his phone down on the table. He grabbed a ss and quickly downed its contents. He tried to dislodge the piece of grilled meat that was making him look awful. Half of it was in his mouth and the other half was already in his throat.


    Max coughed. His eyes were red. And his breath was all over the ce.


    Oh dear!


    It took Max a full ss of water to swallow the bite of fajitas he had not yet chewed. How did it taste? Argh! Torturous.


    ¡°Mom.¡±


    Max growled, his nose running and his eyes watering. One look and everyone would know how annoyed this guy was right now.


    ¡°Next time, Mom, use a signal when you want to say something. Can¡¯t you see I¡¯m eating?¡± Max asked, showing off his lunch. ¡°If I lose my breath because my throat chokes, then what? You don¡¯t want to have a kid anymore?¡±


    On the phone screen, Riley¡¯s face looked guilty. Her eyes blinked as her lips pursed.


    ¡°Um, sorry,¡± Riley whispered. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were eating.¡± The middle-aged woman¡¯s face lifted. ¡°Besides, why did you have fajitas for lunch today? Can¡¯t you eat something else? A sd or a sandwich. Try some salsa. You won¡¯t choke on it.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened dramatically. ¡°Wow! You totally went against my menu choice. Seriously, Mom.¡±


    Riley let out a long sigh. ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know I was wrong. I apologize. Besides, I really wanted to talk to you about Vonda.¡±


    Thank God he had not resumed eating.


    Unconsciously, Max¡¯s eyeballs moved uneasily. He clearly remembered Riley¡¯s words from earlier that had almost taken his breath away.


    ¡°Next Friday night, Vonda¡¯s sister is going to engaged,¡± Riley continued. ¡°Did you know that?¡±


    Max nodded once.


    ¡°Well then! Why don¡¯t youe along? You¡¯ll walk her home. Ask her parents when you both can get engaged? How much do they want for the engagement? Just ask everything.¡±


    Max grimaced.


    ¡°Mom, this is really sudden,¡± Max protested. Besides, he couldn¡¯t possibly ask Vonda¡¯s parents those questions, could he?Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Riley¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Sudden? What do you mean, sudden? You and Vonda are already together. You¡¯re close. Well, it¡¯s not sudden when you n to get married. It¡¯s sudden when people who aren¡¯t close suddenly start sending out wedding invitations.¡±


    Oh dear. I think I¡¯ve been eating too much beeftely. My head feels so dizzy.


    Riley took a deep breath before continuing, this time with seriousness in her voice.


    ¡°Anyway, when you get back from Vonda¡¯s, you better have a report for me. If not, watch out. I¡¯m going to Vonda¡¯s house myself. So, you can get married quickly. If necessary, you¡¯ll get married before her younger sibling does.¡±


    What?!


    ¡°Mom¡­¡± Max cleared his throat. It seemed that even without the spicy stew, his throat still felt stuffed. It was really hard to talk.


    ¡°If Vonda¡¯s parents ask for a billion-dor dowry, what am I supposed to do? I¡¯d have to save first. We can¡¯t get married fast.¡±


    Riley¡¯s eyeballs rolled dramatically as she shed azy smile. ¡°Save up? Your savings are already considerable, Max. Look! Just sell your new Lamborghini. Easy, right? You can use the rest for a honeymoon in Europe.¡±


    Oh, my God!


    Max¡¯s eyes seemed ready to pop out of their sockets. His mouth was hanging open and his voice sounded like he was choking.


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Max asked incredulously. ¡°Sell my Aventador?¡± He struggled to breathe. ¡°Don¡¯t you know how long I waited for this car? How long the pre-order took? How long the transaction took? Not to mention how long customs held it up? It¡¯s already equal to the time from when Kitty was born to when Kitty has grandchildren and great-grandchildren.¡±


    ¡°Why are you bringing up Kitty?¡± Riley muttered, pushing her lips forward. She gave up. ¡°Fine, don¡¯t sell it. Just pawn it for a while.¡±


    ¡°How is a pawn shop going to ept a Lamborghini, Mom!¡± Max shouted in frustration. ¡°Do you really want to see me in the Guinness World Records as the biggest idiot in all of Oceana or what?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Laughter suddenly erupted all around Max. It made him realize that he had just screamed without caring about the reality of where he was at that moment.


    Oh, God.


    Max dramatically closed his eyes. The sudden embarrassment froze his face for a moment. Then he heard Riley¡¯s voice again.


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you if you want to sell your Lamborghini or your other cars. The point is ¡­ when you get back from Vonda¡¯s tomorrow, you have to tell me about your rtionship. Don¡¯t even think about lying to me, Max. Basically, we¡¯re going to have a video call during the engagement event. I need to be sure that you really went.¡±


    Max was astonished, unable toprehend Riley¡¯s determination.


    ¡°Not just show up. But also ask her parents seriously. If you don¡¯t show up, watch out, Max,¡± Riley continued. ¡°I will take you off the family inheritance list.¡±


    Frustrated, Max replied.


    ¡°Do you want me to pick you up, Mom? Let¡¯s go see the familywyer now.¡±


    Riley frowned. ¡°Huh? What are you nning?¡±


    ¡°Take my name off the inheritance list, Mom. Please!¡±


    *


    When the door made its characteristic sound, Vonda immediately rose from her seat to greet Max as he walked in with his shoulders slumped. He looked like a soldier who had just been scolded by hismander.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Max lifted his face and looked at Vonda as she approached with a worried expression. She extended her hand and invited him to sit down.


    Vonda quickly inserted a straw into the mineral water on the table. She handed it to Max and let him take a weak sip of the water.


    Vonda put the mineral water back on the table and turned her attention to two sheets of tissue. She wiped the sweat from Max¡¯s face.


    ¡°Did your mom call you?¡± Vonda asked carefully.


    Max nodded.


    ¡°Did she mention my sibling¡¯s engagement?¡± Vonda asked again.


    Again, Max nodded.


    ¡°Then¡­¡± Vonda felt her heart pound. ¡°¡­ did she talk about us?¡±


    It was not a nod from Max, but a long breath. It was obvious that hecked the strength to answer Vonda¡¯s question.


    ¡°Please, tell me. You didn¡¯t eat burrito, did you? You didn¡¯t choke on the whole burrito, did you?¡±


    Dramatically, Max slowly turned to face Vonda. His face lookedpletely defeated.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t eat any burrito.¡±


    Vonda let out a breath of relief.


    ¡°I just had fajitas. Pieces of grilled meat and peppers used to get stuck in my throat. I never thought I could breathe again until now.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, Max. Next time just have sweet tofu. At least you¡¯ll still be able to breathe when you choke.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really like rice with sweet side dishes, Vonda.¡±


    Vonda shook her head, feeling a little touched by something. ¡°I actually didn¡¯t think that you really like eating at Mexican restaurants.¡±


    ¡°Because the food there is spicy. That¡¯s why I like to eat there.¡±


    ¡°Well, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Are we seriously talking about my favorite food?¡±


    ¡°Oops!¡±


    Vonda covered her mouth, realizing they had strayed onto an inappropriate topic. They were talking about their rtionship, weren¡¯t they?


    They both fell silent for a moment. The only sound was the sound of their breathing echoing in the room. At least that was a sign that there was still life there.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have toe, Max. I¡¯ll talk to Mom myself.¡±


    Max turned around. Whether he knew it or not, he was holding Vonda¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯ming.¡±


    ¡°W-what?¡± Vonda blinked. ¡°Well, but¡­ you can¡¯t possibly ask my parents about our engagement or anything like that. We¡¯re¡­¡±


    Max¡¯s hand tightened around Vonda¡¯s. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it outter. Besides¡­ I think Mom really means it this time. At least when Ie to your house, Mom won¡¯t nag me anymore. As for us, I can always bring up the subject if your parents are still busy with Kania¡¯s engagement.¡±


    Max paused.


    Is that really the reason, Max?


    On the other hand, Vonda seemed to think about Max¡¯s words and realized that there was some truth in what he had said. She smiled.


    ¡°Okay then. Besides¡­ it would be advantageous for you toe to the engagement night,¡± Vonda continued. ¡°I¡¯m sure there¡¯ll be plenty of food at my ce. We can take some hometer.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Why do I feel like I¡¯m being reduced to just food?¡±


    Vonda justughed. Although, of course, herughter was not due to Max¡¯s amusing words. Instead, it was an attempt to cover up something that was making her heart race.


    This is just to keep Max from getting scolded by Mom. It¡¯s not because he really wants to meet my parents.


    At that moment, Vonda suddenly heard Sarah¡¯s words echoing in her head.


    ¡°The problem is our culture, which is easily influenced by emotion.¡±


    *

 Welcome

    On Friday afternoon, the Development and nning Department had an internal meeting. The topic of discussion was the ountability of the recentlypleted tower project, which had beenpleted about two weeks ago. There was an ountability report that needed to be submitted immediately. There was also a team evaluation for future reference.


    It was exhausting for Vonda, not physically, but mentally. All because the team meeting forced her to face Andrew, whether she liked it or not. Yeah¡­ the risk of being a moron, right? How could she have let someone like him on the team when they were dating? Fortunately, the other team members were sharp.


    A female employee stood up and handed a folder to Vonda, who was sitting next to Max. She was Ma Morris.


    ¡°This is the draft statement of ountability, Ma¡¯am. Perhaps you¡¯d like to review it before I submit it to Finance.¡±


    Vonda took it and opened it as she said, ¡°Thank you, Ma.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, Ma¡¯am.¡±


    Max put down his pen after making the final notes on the document he had read. He closed the folder and looked around the conference table.


    ¡°Whose name is on the final project report?¡± Max asked.


    The question made Vonda turn her head. She wanted to answer, but a voice was heard first. Along with the raising of a man¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I did, Sir.¡±


    Max furrowed his brow. The man¡¯s face seemed familiar. He asked reflexively, his eyebrows furrowed.


    ¡°You?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me, Andrew. Andrew Phillips,¡± Andrew replied. ¡°I wrote the final report. Is there a problem, sir?¡±


    For some reason, Vonda held her breath at that moment. It was as if she was the one who was afraid. Just as Andrew had nced at her after introducing himself to Max.


    It was just a quick nce. But it made Vonda feel shaky. Fortunately, Andrew quickly looked back to Max. Vonda breathed a sigh of relief.


    Is this just my imagination? Why is Andrew looking at me differently? Is it because of the car payments?


    It took Vonda two deep breaths to calm herself. It happened just as Max spoke again.


    ¡°I¡¯ve read the report. Please make the necessary changes. As for the evaluation section, it needs aplete overhaul. It¡¯s not just about evaluating the implementation process, but more importantly, evaluating our cooperation with the contractor. That¡¯s crucial for the next project. So, I want all of this to be settled by the next meeting.¡±


    ¡°Understood, Sir.¡±


    The meeting ended shortly thereafter. They immediately put their materials away.


    A short timeter, Vonda and Max left the meeting room ahead of the other employees. As they walked toward their office, Max slipped a hand into his pants pocket as they turned into the hallway. He asked a question.


    ¡°So when are we leaving, Von?¡±


    Vonda lifted her face slightly and looked out of the corner of her eye. ¡°Maybe about six in the afternoon, Max. I¡¯ll get ready as soon as I leave here. I¡¯m afraid we won¡¯t make it in time for the event.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Max nodded, held out his hand, and opened the door to their room, inviting Vonda in first. ¡°What time is the event?¡±


    ¡°Half past eight,¡± Vonda replied as she stepped inside. ¡°So, for that¡­¡± Vonda turned to face Max as he closed the door behind him. ¡°¡­ how do we want to go? Separately, or¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up,¡± Max interjected. ¡°Besides, it would be quite inconvenient if we went separately. I don¡¯t even know your address.¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°All right then. I¡¯ll meet you at the apartment.¡±


    That was her n for Vonda¡¯s home visit. When the clock was about five minutes from exactly five in the afternoon, they decided to leave the room. They simply checked out of the parking lot and drove straight home, each in their own car.


    Arriving at the apartment about thirty-five minutester, Vonda immediately got ready. As the shower water soaked her body, she realized how fortunate she was that her trip home had been without any traffic incidents. Although the traffic had not been too smooth, thirty-five minutes was a rtively quick time to get to the apartment, considering it was almost the weekend.


    As she thought about it, Vonda thought about Max. He was even luckier than she was. Max¡¯s apartment building was not too far from the office,pared to the distance between her office and her apartment building.


    This fact was enough to prove that Max¡¯s antique car business, which he had mentioned a while ago, was not just an empty venture. His apartment building was close to the central business district, indicating considerable value.


    Vonda finished her evening shower in only ten minutes. She dressed modestly, as she would do her makeup at hometer before the event.


    The sound of the doorbell seemed to be a direct order to Vonda. She grabbed her moderately sized bag, made sure her phone, wallet, and a few makeup tools were in it, and then hurried out.


    Max was waiting outside. ¡°Ready?¡± he asked.


    Vonda nodded, adjusting the sandals on her feet as she pulled the door of her unit shut.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    As they descended into the lobby, they seemed to share a look. It was the moment when Vonda and Max realized that a pair of eyes was watching them. It conveyed a sense of curiosity. Without waiting for any teasing, Vonda took the initiative to exin to Rika.


    ¡°My younger sibling¡¯s engagement is happening. So, we¡¯re on our way to my sibling¡¯s engagement.¡±


    Rika raised both hands and folded them in front of her chest, stroking her chin with one hand.


    ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s your sibling who¡¯s getting engaged and not you, Miss?¡±


    Vonda rolled her eyes. ¡°If I was getting engaged, I would have been home since yesterday.¡±


    Rika just grinned in response while Vonda and Max walked out and got into the car. It was not long before the car was cruising down the street.


    During the whole trip Vonda thought about a lot of things, weighing pros and cons, until she felt the need to exin some things to Max. She did not want him to have a heart attackter.


    ¡°Um, Max.¡±


    Max, who was driving the car, looked away for a moment. He looked at Vonda before returning his focus to the road ahead. He asked in a single, sinct word.


    ¡°What?¡±


    At first Vonda hesitated, but finally she decided to speak up.


    ¡°When we get to my house, don¡¯t be surprised, okay?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes looked at her again for a moment. ¡°Surprised?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve got five super active younger siblings, a mom who talks like a firecracker, and a dad who likes to crack jokes, even if they¡¯re dry. So¡­ before anything happens, it¡¯s better if you prepare yourself mentally from now on.¡±


    ¡°You doubt my mental strength while I have a mother whose nature you know very well,¡± Max said with a chuckle.


    Vonda nodded in agreement. ¡°Ah, yes. You¡¯re right.¡±


    With one hand on the wheel, Max let out a brief sigh before continuing.


    ¡°Besides, we¡¯ve talked about this before, haven¡¯t we?¡± Max¡¯s eyes shed. ¡°Your mom must be a lot like yours.¡±


    Vonda pouted her lower lip. ¡°I don¡¯t know if that¡¯s apliment or the opposite.¡±


    ¡°What do you think yourself?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ actually, I feel like I have a lot of faults, too. So¡­ being a bit like my mother isn¡¯t so bad.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a tough kid. It¡¯s funny that you¡¯re the one who says that to your own parents.¡±


    A sigh escaped Vonda¡¯s nostrils. A moment before, she remembered something and spoke up immediately.


    ¡°But you remember how toxic my home environment can be, right?¡±


    Max nodded. ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°You will find out first hand how toxic my environment can be,¡± Vonda replied with a sigh. She adjusted her posture and decided to lean back against the seat. Her gaze was straight down the road. ¡°My family may be a little crazy. Well, their craziness is simr to mine. But when ites to the craziness on my mother¡¯s side of the family¡­ oh boy! That¡¯s another story.¡±


    Max¡¯s brow furrowed as he heard Vonda¡¯s exnation. ¡°That intense?¡±


    ¡°Um.¡± Vonda nodded.


    ¡°Should I be scared? Or¡­ do you have a strategy for dealing with it?¡±


    ¡°A strategy?¡± Vonda chuckled briefly. ¡°With my mother around, it¡¯s fine. We just have toe up with a strategy to deal with her annoying cousins.¡±


    In fact, Vonda¡¯s answer did not reassure Max at all. Having grown up in afortable environment, Max had no defense mechanism for dealing with annoying cousins, especially since Max¡¯s cousins tended to be quiet. As a result, Max was confused as to how to handle the situation.


    As the clock neared half past seven in the evening, they arrived. It was then that Max realized the truth behind Vonda¡¯s words. That Vonda¡¯s mother was indeed their strategy.


    Not for nothing, but because their arrival was greeted with a remark that sent a shiver down Max¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Hey, Vonda? Have you changed your boyfriend again? You¡¯re not like Kania, who is loyal to her boyfriend. Always changing. When are you going to get serious? Are you stepping over Kania now?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s face turned as red as a cooked crab, while Max was still trying to figure out the best way to save Vonda¡¯s face. But just then a middle-aged woman appeared from inside the house and said,


    ¡°It¡¯s not Vonda who¡¯s not loyal, it¡¯s the boyfriend who¡¯s not loyal. Why should my beautiful daughter be stuck with an unfaithful man? Besides, the matter of marriage has already been decided by God. If you want to me fate, did you me fate a few months ago when your young sister died before you?¡±


    Max¡¯s jaw dropped. His expression conveyed a multitude of emotions that Vonda could not decipher. There was shock, surprise, admiration, and just a lot of nanos!


    ¡°This is why I pray to God so often. When leftover materials don¡¯t turn into people. See, this is the result.¡±


    At that moment, Max looked at Vonda as if to convey his words.


    Okay. I understand now.


    Vonda could only nod slightly, grimacing.


    Wee to the jungle.


    *Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.

 Different Hobbies 1

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Heidi. It¡¯s not a good idea to have too many children. The more, the closer they are in age. The older sibling gets overshadowed by the younger ones. It¡¯s really sad.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, that¡¯s true. It should have been you, Rose, who was taken first. This is what happens when your younger sister died before you. Just wait, Rose. Maybe next year it¡¯ll be yours turn to be called by God. Just be patient and wait for the time.¡±


    ¡°You are stubborn even when advised. Look at poor Vonda being overshadowed by Kania. Well, that¡¯s the risk of having children so close in age. And there are so many of them. I wouldn¡¯t be surprised to see Renata overshadowing Vonda again next year. Seriously! Don¡¯t you care about your own child? How can you allow her younger sister to overshadow her?¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness. Von, are you sad to be overshadowed by Kania?¡±


    Gulp!


    Vonda tried to catch her breath as Heidi directed her question at her. She had been shaking ever since she had heard the debate between her mother and her mother¡¯s cousin. She tried to answer.


    ¡°N-n-no, Mom. Not one bit. I don¡¯t mind if Kania gets married before me.¡±


    Heidi raised her thumb. ¡°This is a big sister caring for her younger sibling. Her spiritual strength and affection are not half-hearted. Not like someone, right? Someone who gets upset when she is overshadowed?¡±


    Vonda cleared her throat. ¡°M-M-Mom¡­¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Max watched as Vonda tried to calm her mother, but Heidi quickly turned her attention to something else. At that moment, there would be no one who could stop Heidi¡¯s words.


    ¡°Vonda is an adult. Adults understand that everything has a purpose.¡±


    On the opposite porch, where a few mothers sat enjoying light snacks, Rosa rolled her eyes briefly. Her stubborn expression remained.


    ¡°Hey, Heidi. I was just asking, you know? I¡¯m just caring about your daughter.¡±


    Vonda grabbed Heidi¡¯s hand and tried to stop her. She was afraid her mother would lift the table on the porch and knock it to the ground.


    ¡°Mom, let¡¯s go inside.¡±


    Heidi ignored Vonda¡¯s words. Instead, she let go of Vonda¡¯s hand.


    ¡°You said you cared. Maybe you want Vonda to meet someone, right?¡±


    Heidi scowled. But a momentter she shook her head.


    ¡°No no no. I¡¯m sure the guy you know looks like you. Besides¡­¡± Heidi nced. ¡°¡­ hasn¡¯t you seen how handsome Vonda¡¯s new boyfriend is?¡±


    Oh, my goodness.


    Max, who had been frozen for a while, suddenly became nervous when he noticed that all the mothers¡¯ eyes were on him. Dear God, this seems scarier than facing an angry thesis advisor in college.


    ¡°Are you Vonda¡¯s new boyfriend?¡±


    Gulp!


    The first question immediately made both Vonda and Max ufortable. They exchanged awkward nces, and Vonda decided to answer.


    ¡°Um¡­ actually, he¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am.¡±


    Swoosh!


    Vonda turned to Max, who cut her off. His face was frozen, and he actually confirmed the question.


    Oh, but that¡¯s not all. Just wait until Max reached out for Heidi¡¯s hand and shook it politely. Introduced himself. That¡¯s when Vonda almost lost herposure.


    ¡°Maxwell Hernandez, Ma¡¯am. Just call me Max. I apologize foring to your house just now.¡±


    Heidi¡¯s eyes, which had been burning with fire, suddenly softened like a snowfall. Her tense expression rxed. A smile even appeared.


    ¡°Ah, Max. Yes, yes, yes. It¡¯s all right. I¡¯ve been waiting for you.¡±


    A sentence that made both Vonda and Max furrow their brows in confusion.


    ¡°Waiting for me, Ma¡¯am?¡±


    Heidi nodded. ¡°Sarah¡¯s told me a lot about you. I¡¯m so excited and I¡¯ve been waiting for you.¡±


    Sarah!


    Vonda¡¯s eyes immediately darted to the door. As if her gaze could pierce through walls and locate Sarah, who had apparently arrived at her house before them. No need for a sixth sense; Vonda knew exactly where Sarah was right now.


    Probably in the kitchen! Getting the engagement snacks ready!


    The information from Heidi made Max nod stiffly, feeling confused and curious.


    What exactly had Sarah told Vonda¡¯s mother about me?


    While this question spun around in Max¡¯s head, a sigh came from the other side. It seemed to remind the three of them that there were also information-hungry mothers to be dealt with. Max quickly walked over and greeted the mothers while introducing himself.


    Oh God. The one time he came to Vonda¡¯s house, he was immediately greeted by nosy family. And now he had to introduce himself in this situation. A twist of fate.


    After introducing himself, Max, feeling awkward, returned to Vonda. He looked at her with a sympathetic gaze that made Vonda feel both pity and amusement. Well, maybe a little irritation.


    Guilt? Strangely enough, it did not ur to Vonda at all.


    ¡°Um, Max. If you¡¯re going to marry Vonda, you need to know something, okay? Vonda¡¯s got a lot of siblings. If you mess up, you¡¯re going to have a hard time being married to her. They don¡¯t use birth control. They just keep having kids.¡±


    All this time, Max had thought nosy family only existed in soap operas. But apparently, they existed in real life, too. And to be honest, he was kind of impressed. For seven minutes, there was no blood on the porch. So amazing, right?


    Although, of course, the debate would not end quickly. Heidi chimed in again.


    ¡°That¡¯s the job of parents, Celine. Hopefully, I raised my children not to be troublemakers. That includes teasing their inws. But if we help each other¡­ isn¡¯t that what family is for? Besides, it¡¯s better for Max to help Vonda¡¯s sibling than it is to help nosy family like you. Is it right, Max?¡±


    No. Of course Max would not answer that question. Not because he disagreed with Heidi, but because Max did not want to get involved in this damn conversation. Besides, he had to admit that his whole body was already hot and cold.


    Vonda reached for Heidi¡¯s hand again. ¡°Mom, let¡¯s go inside. Please, I beg you.¡±


    Because no matter what, Vonda had to admit that she was embarrassed to have Max witness this argument. So, the only way to do it was to invite Heidi into the house.


    *

 Different Hobbies 2

    But the problem was, Heidi clearly wasn¡¯t going to leave the argument. She would keep arguing until she was satisfied.


    ¡°If you want to go inside, go inside. Did you forget the way in or something?¡± Heidi blinked and turned back to Max. ¡°Right, Max?¡±


    Atst, Max nodded. ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am.¡±


    With a short sigh, Heidi turned back to the other mothers. ¡°As for birth control, I¡¯ll show you how many condom wrappers my husband usedst night. As proof that we are using contraception. Oh, I¡¯ll also show you the almost-finished pack of pills I have.¡±


    ¡°Mom, please!¡± Vonda eximed. Ignoring the redness on Max¡¯s face at that moment, she tried to pull her mother away. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to get inside the house, Mom. Take me inside. I might get lost. Please.¡±Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Trying to free her hand, Heidi kept talking. It seemed she would not be satisfied until she got all her frustrations out.


    ¡°And ever since we got married, my hobby has been having children with my husband. Am I the kind of woman who enjoys having children with someone else¡¯s husband? And my husband is like every girl¡¯s dream. Wow! So, whether we use condoms or pills or whatever, it¡¯s going to fail anyway. I even used an IUD once. But instead of my husband¡¯s sperm melting, the device itself broke. So that¡¯s a lesson to all of you. Find a man who¡¯s great in bed. If not, you¡¯ll regret it until death.¡±


    Vonda closed her eyes. She felt unable to face the world again. Heidi was the one doing the talking, but why was Vonda so embarrassed?


    I¡¯m begging you, God. Don¡¯t let Mom talk any further. I¡¯m ashamed of Max.


    ¡°But don¡¯t even think about flirting with my husband,¡± Heidi continued, narrowing her eyes. She warned her neighbor. ¡°The only one who can stay up all night without sleeping is me. Only me.¡±


    At that moment, Vonda was sure that inviting Max to her house was a fatal decision. She realized it when she saw Max¡¯s truly shocked expression. You could tell by the changing color of his face. First red, then purple, then white, then a rainbow of colors, none of them pleasant. Especially since Heidi¡¯sst sentence was thest straw.


    ¡°I feel sorry for women who don¡¯t enjoy having children with their husbands. Tsk! They¡¯re missing out on the joy God gave them.¡±


    *


    Sarah burst intoughter as she tried to bnce a slice ofyered cake on herp. In stark contrast, Vonda continued to grumble while attempting to stay calm as her face was being worked on by the salon artist.


    ncing through the corner of her eye, Vonda could see Sarah, looking beautiful in her pink dress, sitting on the edge of her bed. It was as if she did not care that cake crumbs might fall onto the bed and be a calling for ants.


    ¡°Hahaha! Your mom is truly the best!¡± Sarahughed. ¡°Because what your mom said is absolutely true. After getting married, I also enjoy having children with Evan. Although, of course, the hobby needs to be done carefully so as not to ruin our future ns.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes rolled dramatically. ¡°Do you all have to talk about this hobby of having children?¡±


    Sarahughed even more. ¡°You can choose, Von. Do you want the hobby of having children with your own husband, someone else¡¯s husband, or the hobby of gossiping about your neighbors?¡±


    ¡°Well, I choose the hobby of having children with my own husband.¡±


    ¡°See! Hahaha! A hobby with unparalleled pleasure.¡±


    ¡°Argh! But the correct is having sex, not having children.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, maybe you¡¯re right. But the bottom line is they have the same process.¡±


    Vonda felt like scratching her head due to the strange conversation. Especially when she nced at the mirror and noticed the salon artist chuckling softly repeatedly.


    Oh, no. I¡¯d better change the subject before things get any more embarrassing.


    ¡°Hey, Sarah. I want to ask something.¡± Vonda suddenly remembered something Heidi had said earlier. ¡°Did you tell Mom about Max?¡±


    Sarah enjoyed another piece of theyered cake before nodding. She casually exined, ¡°I was just worried that your mom might be shocked to meet Hernandez. You know, I was practically interrogated by your parents earlier. They asked me about you and Andrew. Wait a minute. You didn¡¯t tell them about you and Andrew breaking up, did you?¡±


    Vonda bit her lower lip. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t,¡± she replied softly. ¡°I¡¯m just toozy to tell Mom about everything. But I¡¯m pretty sure you already told Mom.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s confusion about Heidi¡¯s earlierment on the terrace was now cleared up. Of course, it was because Sarah had spilled the beans. It was a relief for Vonda. She did not have to struggle to exin, and her family finally knew what had really happened.


    ¡°Yes, of course I told them. So that your parents could be relieved that their child had broken up with a crocodile like him. When he couldn¡¯t handle the responsibility of even a casual rtionship, let alone a marriage with such huge responsibilities? Tsk tsk tsk tsk!¡± Sarah eximed.


    Vonda took a long breath.


    ¡°Besides¡­ when I see you bringing Hernandez home this time, I¡¯m really sure. Your parents must have forgotten that you once had a boyfriend named Andrew.¡±


    Vonda remained silent as the salon artist finished her work. At exactly seven in the evening, Vonda looked stunning in her soft blue dress. After the salon artist left Vonda¡¯s room, Sarah asked.


    ¡°Um, but after you guys arrived, I didn¡¯t get a chance to meet Hernandez. Where is he?¡±


    Vonda rose from her chair and turned to Sarah. ¡°Where else but in conversation with Mom and Dad?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s counter question made Sarah burst intoughter again.


    ¡°Hopefully he¡¯ll still be alive when he leaves here.¡±


    Vonda took a long breath. Her face showed weariness as she epted the fate thaty before her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve got the contact of the nearest hospital ready. Just in case he needs to be taken to the emergency room.¡±


    Sarah¡¯sughter broke out even more.


    *

 Not a Plan 1

    Max swallowed hard, silently muttering incantations in his head to keep himself from fainting. Facing Vonda¡¯s extended family was proving to be more nerve-wracking than he had expected during the car ride earlier.


    ¡°Have you been seeing Vonda for a long time?¡±


    ¡°Why did you juste now?¡±


    ¡°When did you meet Vonda?¡±


    Max did not know what questions were bombarding him in rapid session. He only knew one thing; he would have copsed if a member of Vonda¡¯s family had not hurried into the room and said, ¡°Come on, Yale and his family have arrived.¡±


    Phew!


    Max did not care if anyoneughed at him for reflexively tapping his chest twice. Just as everyone¡¯s attention shifted to the news of the Munro family¡¯s arrival, Max let out a sigh of relief. He needed a moment topose himself before he joined them at the front.


    ¡°You¡¯re just like a little kid being scolded for stealing the neighbor¡¯s mangoes,¡± Vonda¡¯s voice sounded as a handkerchief wiped away the beads of sweat on Max¡¯s forehead. He looked up to find Vonda standing half bent over in front of him.


    Vonda smiled sweetly. Max thought she was trying to reassure him.


    Max exhaled deeply and let Vonda wipe the sweat from his face with the handkerchief before he said, ¡°It seems worse than that. You have five younger siblings, both your parents, not to mention aunts and uncles whose names I can¡¯t remember. Imagine that. Oh my God. I thought I wasn¡¯t going to make it out of here alive.


    Vonda chuckled, straightened her back, and took a deep breath. ¡°There¡¯s steak on the menu tonight, by the way. Do you like it?¡±


    Max narrowed his eyes. ¡°Trying to bribe me, huh?¡±


    Vondaughed again, not denying the usation at all. And of course, Max did not mind.


    Momentster, Vonda and Max joined the others in the living room. Sarah, who had been there earlier, waved at Max as a form of greeting.


    Remembering the previous incident, Max had a tendency to think that Sarah would find it difficult to maintain a professional demeanor around him. Consequently, he perceived her wave as a form of mockery.


    Speaking of waves, something else puzzled Max. He noticed a guy next to Sarah who immediately pulled her along. Not by holding her hand, but by her chin. Max¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief.


    In a public ce like this? Seriously?


    Max¡¯s confusion continued as he watched Sarah¡¯s nonchnt reaction to the guy¡¯s actions. She lightly patted the man¡¯s chest and exchanged a brief word.


    Deciding not to dwell on Sarah and the guy, Max turned his attention to the engagement ceremony.


    Walking solemnly, Max was puzzled by something. He realized that the women who had been on the porch earlier were still watching the engagement ceremony.


    The atmosphere was magical. At least that¡¯s what Max felt. Sitting next to Vonda, he could clearly see the happiness on her beautiful face.


    Max was proud of Vonda. Maybe it was her mature nature. Maybe it was the radiant love she had for her younger siblings. Or maybe it was both.


    So Max was not surprised when Vonda gave Kania a big hug. She would have almost cried if her other siblings hadn¡¯t teased her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry now, Vonda. Just wait until the wedding.¡±


    ¡°I know. Even though she¡¯s all grown up, she¡¯s still crying. Ugh, so sensitive!¡±


    Vonda cursed yfully. ¡°Okay, okay. I won¡¯t cry.¡±


    ¡°If you cry, people might think you¡¯re getting engaged.¡±


    The event continued with dinner. Some of the guests satfortably. Sarah, who knew Vonda¡¯s family, moved gracefully around the room. She greeted several people as she allowed her waist to be held gently.


    ¡°That is Evan, Sarah¡¯s husband. Evan Burton.¡±


    Max turned to see Vonda. ¡°Ah.¡±


    ¡°If I were Sarah, I might not be able to handle this,¡± Vondamented.


    Max took a sip of the tea. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Vonda snorted quietly. ¡°Haven¡¯t you seen how protective Evan is of Sarah? Let me tell you. Even when they¡¯re at the mall, Evan waits for Sarah outside thedies¡¯ room. He can¡¯t let Sarah out of his sight. But it¡¯s the opposite of what you saw. Even if someone has to act protective, it¡¯s definitely Sarah. Evan was a former model, he had a lot of ex-girlfriends, they could be used for the parade¡±.


    ¡°Um, but I didn¡¯t see it that way. In fact, the guy looked at me like he wanted to fight. Sarah was just enjoying it.¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°It¡¯s the other way around who¡¯s being protective, isn¡¯t it? I didn¡¯t even think Sarah could talk that guy into letting her work. Um.¡± She stroked her chin and whispered, ¡°Maybe it has something to do with some of her costumes.¡±


    Max¡¯s forehead wrinkled. ¡°Costumes?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Vonda chuckled, then took Max¡¯s hand. ¡°Never mind, Sarah. Let¡¯s just eat.¡±


    Vonda invited Max to leave the bustling living room and her family behind and head for the kitchen-a morefortable ce. Max grinned. That meant there would be more food, right?


    Vonda and Max sat down at the dining room table, ignoring the bustling family. They decided to dig into their bted dinner.


    ¡°Why are you eating in the kitchen? You should be up front. Even Sarah and Evan are in the front. Feels like she¡¯s my daughter. Not you, Vonda.¡±


    Heidi¡¯s long chatter could be heard as Vonda and Max enjoyed their meal. They exchanged nces, both looking a little embarrassed.


    ¡°Um, you considered Sarah to be your own child, right?¡± Vondaughed. ¡°Well, just think of Sarah as my recement.¡±


    Heidi blinked. ¡°You, when you¡¯re told-¡±


    ng!


    Max, who had stopped eating to watch the mother-daughter interaction, was suddenly surprised by the ringing tone on his phone. Even Heidi stopped talking and looked at him.


    Without waiting much longer, Max reached into his pocket and decided he should not have to guess who was calling him on a video call. The same went for Vonda, who immediately looked at him. Max cleared his throat.


    Answer or let it go, it¡¯s only getting worse.


    At first, Max did not answer the call. But Heidi, who was still there, asked.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you answer, Max? Who¡¯s calling?¡±


    Not just a simple question, Heidi also looked at Max¡¯s phone screen and read the caller¡¯s contact.


    ¡°Just answer it. It¡¯s your mom calling.¡±


    Max nodded and got out of his seat. ¡°Let me get that. Excuse me for a moment.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Heidi reached out, stopping Max with a furrowed brow. ¡°Where do you want to answer? It¡¯s pretty crowded out there. Just answer here. It¡¯s okay. I understand.¡±All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Glek!


    Understand?


    It did not mean that Max pretended to be considerate of the host. He did not think it was rude to answer a video call in front of Heidi. Not at all.


    ¡°Um. That¡­¡±


    *

 Not a Plan 2

    Max was nervous. He looked at Vonda, but she seemed just as confused. So, Max had no choice. He sat back in his chair and answered the video call in front of Heidi and Vonda.


    Max and Vonda immediately tensed. Ready for any eventuality. Max nced at Heidi, hoping the middle-aged woman would walk away. But he was wrong. It seemed that Heidi was really proving the phrase ¡®I understand¡¯.


    Ah, forget it.


    Max took a quick breath and answered the call. He started to say hello, but on the other side Riley¡¯s eyes widened and she almost snapped at him.


    ¡°Oh. Not answering my call, huh? Why not? Aren¡¯t you with Vonda? Aren¡¯t you going to ask Vonda¡¯s parents about the engagement?¡±


    Max really was not prepared for Riley¡¯s attack. He was flustered, but things had not gotten so chaotic that Heidi was about to explode.


    ¡°Dear God, Max, are you going to propose to Vonda?¡±


    Oh-My-God!


    Both Max and Vonda froze at Heidi¡¯s words. The middle-aged woman was staring at them. Confused as to how to respond, Max heard Riley¡¯s voice in the next few seconds.


    ¡°I seem to be hearing a strange voice, Max. Who is it? Vonda¡¯s mom, right?¡±


    Max looked at the phone screen again. ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes! It¡¯s Vonda¡¯s mom!¡±


    Vonda looked at Heidi who quickly took a seat next to Max. She sat down and immediately said hello to Riley.


    Oh God! Vonda really wanted to bury herself in the garden. And if she really wanted to do it, she should think about bringing Max with her. After all, his face looked just as helpless as hers.


    ¡°Oh, God. Vonda¡¯s mom?¡± Riley asked from the other side, covering her mouth with one hand.


    Heidi nodded. ¡°Yes. I¡¯m Vonda¡¯s mom, Heidi.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Max¡¯s mom. I¡¯m Riley.¡±


    Forget it! As this back-and-forth conversation began, both Max and Vonda were resigned to the course of fate. They both stayed quiet and watched as Max¡¯s phone finally found its way into Heidi¡¯s hands, and the two middle-aged women began chatting like long lost friends.


    ¡°Um¡­ actually, I asked Max toe over to ask a few questions. Well¡­ it may not sound very formal, but it¡¯s just to get an idea first. Because it was kind of sudden. My husband and I were supposed toe with him tonight.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s okay. They haven¡¯t been together very long. So, you cane as a family when you have time.¡±


    ¡°How about wee to your house next Sunday?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened and Riley¡¯s question shocked him to the core. ¡°Mom! Isn¡¯t next Sunday Edeline¡¯s engagement?¡±


    Riley and Heidi both looked at Max. Riley let out a sigh.


    ¡°Oh, right! We have a n for next Sunday. My friend¡¯s daughter is getting engaged.¡±


    Heidi nodded in understanding. ¡°That¡¯s fine. Maybe the following Sundays will work too.¡±


    ¡°Or how about before next Sunday? How about Wednesday? Thursday?¡±


    Max really could not believe how casually Riley was offering Heidi dates. Max became more and more confused.


    Th-they¡¯re picking the day? Huh? What? Why is this happening? Seriously!


    ¡°Um¡­ Thursday? Tomorrow?¡± Heidi suggested.


    ¡°Yes. So, we can talk quickly about the engagement and everything. How Vonda wants the engagement to be or if there are any special requests.¡±


    Heidi¡¯s face turned slightly red. ¡°Vonda¡¯s special request is probably just a pair of shoes. She really likes shoes.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right! When we went shopping together, she bought shoes like that.¡±


    Heidi¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡¯ve been shopping with Vonda before?¡±


    Riley nodded enthusiastically. ¡°We went shopping, then to the salon and basically just hung out.¡±


    Riley¡¯s answer caused Heidi to turn her face to Vonda and give her a meaningful look.


    Oh! Your rtionship with Max hase this far, but you haven¡¯t told your mom, huh?


    *


    As Max¡¯s car pulled up to the side of Vonda¡¯s apartment building, they both felt a sense of relief. They had not expected to make it out of the night unscathed. Considering how things had gone beyond their ns, it was not an exaggeration.


    Max had not expected Riley to call him right when Heidi was around. Meanwhile, Vonda had toe up with a cover story involving office meetings, financial reports, and all sorts of things to avoid Heidi¡¯s insistence that they stay the night.


    No need to ask what would have happened if Vonda and Max had ended up staying the night. Just one word would sum it up: disaster.


    ¡°Tonight¡­¡± Max started, his voice breaking the silence. ¡°¡­ waspletely unexpected.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Vonda let out a long breath, reflexively unfastening her seatbelt. It made her chest feel more open.


    Max also unbuckled his seatbelt and took a deep breath.


    ¡°This is all because of my mom. If she hadn¡¯t called right then¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, if my mom hadn¡¯t grabbed your phone so fast, none of this would have happened.¡±


    A momentter, they both sighed in unison, synchronized in their exhtion. And then they simultaneously uttered a rather magical phrase.


    ¡°We have amazing moms.¡±


    They burst outughing at the synchronicity of their thoughts.


    ¡°But at least I¡¯m really grateful to you, Max.¡±


    After a satisfiedugh, Vonda said what she had been meaning to say. Max, wiping away tears ofughter, turned to her.


    ¡°My mom didn¡¯t pester me with all kinds of questions because of you.¡±


    Max looked at Vonda. ¡°No problem. Besides, I¡¯m d I got to eat for free tonight. Where else am I going to see such a rare spectacle that I¡¯ve never seen before in my life? Middle-aged women arguing at an engagement party.¡±


    Vondaughed again. ¡°This is just the tip of the iceberg. You¡¯ll see more when Kania gets married. It¡¯ll be even more chaotic. You¡¯re going to be even more shocked, Max. Why isn¡¯t the party at home? Why didn¡¯t they rent a ce? Ah! Everything is just a dilemma.''¡±


    They both shared anotherugh, relieved that they had managed to navigate the unexpected twists and turns of the evening.


    Max could picture this scenario in his mind. But strangely enough, there was something else that made him ask spontaneously.


    ¡°Does that mean I¡¯ll be apanying you to Kania¡¯s wedding again next year?¡±


    Thud!


    This question left Vonda stunned for a moment. Next year? Speaking of next year, Vonda remembered Max¡¯s status as temporary acting department head. In other words, the end of the year marked the end of Max¡¯s tenure at Greatech.


    How is that even possible?


    Unlike Vonda, Max¡¯s thoughts were in a different direction. The idea of joining Vonda for the next year felt right. There was a sense of joy in finding this thought floating around in his mind.


    Max lost consciousness. His mind suddenly went nk, filled with a euphoric imagination he could not control.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes blinked as she softly called his name. Her expression was one of surprise and anticipation. She was puzzled when she noticed that Max¡¯s hand spontaneously reached for his neck.


    Max¡¯s consciousness returned. It left him equally confused. He did not understand why his body had moved on its own, as if reacting instinctively.


    But it did not seem to be a problem. For Max found that Vonda could not resist the touch of his lips on hers.


    Vonda closed her eyes as Max¡¯s kissnded on her lips. The touch was incredibly soft, as if filled with emotion.


    Vonda¡¯s hand moved up to rest on Max¡¯s chest. She returned the kiss with equal tenderness.


    Time passed without words orughter. All that remained was a series of heart-pounding kisses.


    *

 Right on Target

    ¡°Last night ¡­ it didn¡¯t mean anything, did it, Max?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice echoed in Max¡¯s mind as he opened the door to the room and saw Vonda¡¯s face. Max¡¯s gaze immediately focused on one spot on Vonda¡¯s face: her lips, painted in pinkish-red lipstick.


    Lips that had yielded to his kisses a few nights ago. Lips that had responded gently to his kisses. Lips that had ignited his fantasies in an instant. But unfortunately, those fantasies had evaporated in an instant because of Vonda¡¯s words.


    ¡°Last night ¡­ it didn¡¯t mean anything, did it, Max?¡±


    Damn it!


    Max really wanted to erase Vonda¡¯s voice from his mind. But he could not. Vonda¡¯s voice and words were strongly imprinted in his memory, as if she was trying to make Max realize something.


    Vonda didn¡¯t see our rtionship as more than it should be.


    She honestly crushed Max¡¯s ego. Considering that she had made that clear after they had spent that passionate night together. What else could the guy expect?


    But maybe it was different this time. Judging by Vonda¡¯s implied invitation and the way she had weed that kiss, Max spected. Maybe Vonda felt the samefort he had felttely.


    Still just maybe. What if it was the opposite? Max might lose the chance to stay with Vonda if she chose to leave. The feeling that Max had vited his own wish. Just helping, right?


    ¡°Um, Max? Are you okay?¡±


    Max blinked twice, realizing that he had been silent like a fool in the middle of the room all this time. Even when Vonda had approached him, he had not noticed her presence. He waspletely lost in his own thoughts.


    ¡°Oh, that¡­¡±


    Before Max could give an answer that would not embarrass him even more, Vonda ced her hand on his forehead. She furrowed her brow, as if she wanted to feel his body temperature.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have a fever.¡±


    Max took Vonda¡¯s hand and lowered it. ¡°I don¡¯t have a fever. I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been so quiet since before. Like you¡¯re lost or something.¡±


    Lost?


    ¡°I thought you were sick,¡± Vonda continued with a mischievous smile. ¡°Don¡¯t get sick now. We have another meeting this afternoon.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s chuckle eased Max¡¯s anxiety. It made him feel peaceful again, if only for a moment.


    That afternoon, after the departmental meeting had ended, Max felt the anxiety in his chest rise again. However, this turmoil felt different than the previous one. It was like a volcano ready to erupt.


    It all started when the afternoon meeting ended. Max, too excited that all the tower issues had finally been resolved-the final report, the financial statements, and the team evaluation-thought he had left his phone in the meeting room while he and Vonda were walking back to his office.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Let me get it.¡±


    That¡¯s what Vonda said. Finally, Max epted the stack of documents Vonda handed him as she turned back toward the meeting room.


    At first, Max wanted to go straight to his office, but he changed his mind. With a strange feeling, he decided to wait for Vonda.


    ¡°What¡¯s taking so long?¡±


    Just as the surprised look slipped off his tongue, Max felt a vibration in his jacket pocket. His eyes widened and he pped his forehead.


    ¡°Oh, you idiot! How could I keep that in my pocket? It¡¯s usually in my pants pocket, right?¡± Max muttered to himself. ¡°Ah! Vonda must be taking so long because she¡¯s looking everywhere for my phone. Oh my God! She¡¯s going to be so mad.¡±


    Not wanting to see Vonda¡¯s anger after feeling he had been yed, Max made a decision. He decided to go after her.


    Max¡¯s steps were hurried. He was almost running down the hall. He turned a corner and from a distance he noticed something else strange. Vonda was standing at the door. Her hand was on the doorknob, but strangely, she was not opening it all the way.


    Ignoring the oddity, Max approached Vonda. He stood right behind her and was about to call out to her when something stopped him.


    ¡°Hahaha! I told you. You didn¡¯t believe me, did you? I heard her talking to Mrs. Roberts in the parking lot. They¡¯re dating.¡±


    ¡°So, what, Andrew? Are you jealous?¡±


    ¡°Huh?! Jealous? Anyone could tell she¡¯s still bitter about breaking up with me. Trust me! With Mr. Hernandez, it¡¯s just a rebound. Yeah, it seems like Vonda¡¯s getting smarter about finding rich people, right?¡±


    ¡°A rebound like Mr. Hernandez? You¡¯re crazy, Andrew. If I were Miss Scott, he wouldn¡¯t be just a rebound anymore. And you? You¡¯ve really gone far.¡±


    ¡°Damn! But you don¡¯t know how Vonda begged me to get back together with her, do you?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Laughter echoed around the meeting room. It echoed so loudly that its vibrations reached Vonda¡¯s hand gripping the doorknob.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Vonda instantly stiffened. She raised her face to find Max standing right next to her.


    Vonda¡¯s face went pale and her lips trembled. They trembled so much that she could not pronounce the guy¡¯s name as strongly as she usually did.


    ¡°M-Max.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Without saying a word, Max took control of the door and pushed it open roughly.


    Brak!


    While Vonda froze, a sound of readiness and surprise echoed through the meeting room. More than that, everyone in the room stared wide-eyed in disbelief when they saw who had just entered.


    ¡°Mr. Hernandez.¡±


    Everyone in the room, who had initially been rxed-some sitting on the table, some turning chairs, and some sitting in the department head¡¯s special chair-suddenly stood up with tense expressions. Among them, Andrew¡¯s face was the tensest, which was not surprising considering the sharp look Max was giving him.


    ¡°Could you repeat everything you said about Miss Scott, Andrew?¡±


    Not only Andrew, but also the other employees turned pale. None of them dared to move from their seats.


    ¡°Do you know something? The one who answered your messages a few months ago was not her, but me. If you want to gossip in this office, go ahead. There¡¯s no rule against me and Vonda dating. Besides, I¡¯m relieved that you know about my rtionship with her. That means you won¡¯t be bothering my girlfriend with your car payments anymore, right?¡±


    Max looked around at each of the employees, then continued, pointing at Andrew.


    ¡°This guy is still harassing my girlfriend to pay off his car loan. You want to gossip, right? Spread that gossip. I want to see if he has the decency to quit without a warning letter from HR.¡±


    Andrew swallowed nervously. He looked scared, trembling even more this time.


    ¡°S-Sir.¡±


    ¡°Remember one more thing,¡± Max continued. ¡°This is the way girls should be. They should choose their mates wisely. You heard what your friend said, right? Compared to me, you¡¯re definitely not even close. So don¡¯t think I¡¯m just an escape. Our levels are different.¡±


    Without giving Andrew a chance to defend himself-which he didn¡¯t seem to have anything to say anyway-Max left the room immediately. He walked over to Vonda and took her hand, leading her away.


    *


    ¡°I just realized that I¡¯ve been feeling weird around some of the staff for the past few days. Turns out they¡¯ve been talking about me. Oh my God, Max. I feel so stupid.¡±


    Max remained silent, choosing to fan Vonda with a magazine rather than engage in her chatter. He knew Vonda did not need any inspirational words right now. What she needed right now was to vent her feelings.


    ¡°What¡¯s even sillier is how did I end up dating a guy like that?¡±


    Max continued fanning Vonda.


    ¡°Evenpared to my own stupidity, I have to admit something. You¡¯re really smart, Max.¡±


    Well, this time Max¡¯s fan stopped.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Vonda, who had been massaging her temples all along, suddenly straightened up. She turned and looked at Max, who was sitting next to her.


    ¡°Our levels are different,¡± Vonda rolled her eyes. ¡°While you make me look stupid, you make yourself look smarter.¡±


    Max burst outughing at Vonda¡¯s words. He did not feel the need to argue. Moreover, upon reflection, Max¡¯s statement in the meeting room gave the impression of his superiority.


    ¡°When ites to levels and all that stuff, I¡¯m just curious about one thing.¡±


    Vonda looked frustrated. ¡°Oh, please. Don¡¯t ask me why I went out with him in the first ce. My circle of friends is limited and it just happened.¡±


    ¡°No, no, no.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Max shook his head.


    ¡°I just want to know why you didn¡¯t report Andrew¡¯s actions to HR? I think what he did to¡­¡± Max furrowed his brow. ¡°Who did you say was ying horsey with him in the office?¡±


    Vonda replied briefly. ¡°Livy.¡±


    ¡°Ah, I see,¡± Max nodded. ¡°I mean, why didn¡¯t you report this to HR? I don¡¯t think actions like that should be tolerated.¡±


    ¡°Well, Sarah already told me to report it. The problem is that there¡¯s no CCTV in the right position to catch them entering the empty room. If I report it based on what I saw, they¡¯ll just think I¡¯m making excuses to get rid of Andrew because I¡¯m bitter about the breakup.¡±


    Max understood Vonda¡¯s point. He nodded in agreement and rubbed his chin.


    ¡°But Max¡­¡±


    Vonda smiled sincerely, attracting Max¡¯s attention like a ma.


    ¡°Thank you for what you did earlier,¡± Vonda sighed. ¡°I may speak my mind, but I¡¯ve never been good at confronting people who talk behind my back.¡±


    ¡°Well, Andrew should have said it to your face, shouldn¡¯t he?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s head lifted as sheughed spontaneously. ¡°I can imagine how your mother¡¯s shoes got stuck on his head.¡±


    Max just smiled broadly in response to Vonda¡¯s words, allowing her tough as much as she wanted. When Vonda finally stoppedughing, Max said, ¡°Treat me.¡±


    Vonda blinked. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I need to know how sincere your thanks were, Von,¡± Max grinned. ¡°I checked earlier, there¡¯s a new movie on.¡±


    Vonda gave him a teasing look. ¡°A horror movie?¡±


    ¡°No, a romanticedy.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! You¡¯ve got to be kidding me.¡±


    *


    And so, they spent the rest of the day. Enjoying a supposed horror movie, even though they couldn¡¯t stopughing throughout the entire movie, which made their bodies tired by the end-horroredy movie.


    Afterughing endlessly, Vonda dragged Max to a restaurant in the mall. It was time for dinner, and they enjoyed a delicious meal in a rxed andfortable atmosphere.


    During dinner, various conversations flowed smoothly, like water flowing steadily to its destination. They were interspersed withughter and yful teasing, including the mischievous acts of stealing food from each other¡¯s tes. Eventually, Max had to give in and hisrge shrimp ended up in Vonda¡¯s mouth.


    Max sighed and shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s proven. You really didn¡¯t mean it when you thanked me earlier.¡±


    Without denying the usation, Vonda justughed. After all, it was a fair trade for the piece of chicken she had snatched from Max earlier.


    It was indeed a delicious dinner. They were satisfied not only with the delicious food, but also with the joyful feeling it brought. Unconsciously, they spent a lot of time there.


    So, it wasn¡¯t surprising that the waiter sighed with relief when Vonda and Max left the restaurant. It was about ten minutes to ten in the evening.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Vonda sighed and rested her head on the passenger seat. She looked tired, but happy. She turned to Max, who showed no signs of starting the car.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s best if we go together with your car while mine stays at the office,¡± Vonda said. ¡°I don¡¯t feel like I have the energy to drive right now. Although it¡¯s clear that I ate a lot earlier.¡±


    Max smiled. ¡°Besides, it would be weird if we wanted to hang out but ended up going separately.¡±


    ¡°True,¡± Vonda agreed.


    Gettingfortable in her seat, Vonda looked at Max. He seemed a little distracted, not wearing his seat belt and lost in thought.


    Max let out a long sigh, trying to calm himself as his blood rushed and his chest pounded.


    ¡°Max?¡±


    Max¡¯s jaw moved up and down. His hand reached out and took Vonda¡¯s hand, holding it tightly.


    He said, ¡°Come home with me tonight, Von.¡±


    *

 All the Flavors

    ¡°Compared to horse, lizard, snake, or even kangaroo, do you know any other animals that are as amazing?¡±


    The voice sounded deep. Too close to Vonda¡¯s ear. Until a warm exhtion made her feel the skin around her neck stretch.


    The question that greeted her eardrums¡­ sounded so sensual. Causing Vonda¡¯s eyes to close even tighter as her breathing becamebored. Staying sane was a difficult thing for the girl to maintain.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s trembling question made Max grin. His hands moved gently. He kept Vonda¡¯s hands on either side of the girl¡¯s head. Pressing them into the hollow of the soft mattress beneath them.


    Max lowered his body even further. Letting Vonda feel the weight of him as he moved his lips to give her a small bite on her earlobe. Vonda immediately felt short of breath.


    ¡°Honey bear.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s chest rose and fell restlessly. ¡°Honey bear?¡±


    Max deliberately lowered his face a little. Past the earlobe and resting on the side of Vonda¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Honey bear. One of the animals with the longest tongue in the world,¡± Max whispered softly. ¡°Can you imagine what that tongue could do to make you float?¡±


    Oh my!


    Erotic thoughts immediately shed through Vonda¡¯s mind. ying wildly with her imagination, she unconsciously moved restlessly beneath Max. Her heart beat very fast.


    ¡°Like this, for example.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s ten toes curled instantly. Her chest deted. Her breath caught in her throat.


    Then Vonda felt a warm, rubbery object brush the skin of her neck. With slow and very sensual movements. Leaving a wet, sensual impression.


    ¡°Max!¡±


    Max¡¯s tongue swirled. ying on Vonda¡¯s skin with movements so intoxicating. Making Vonda unable to resist the urge to sigh. Even to raise her face. Letting Max make warm explorations along the skin of her neck.


    Vonda¡¯s sigh escaped. Max¡¯s tongue gave her a warmth that thrilled her whole body. Slowly descending. cing long, wet strokes around her corbone. Making Vonda hold her breath again as she clenched both hands tightly.


    ¡°This¡­ is a barrier that must be removed.¡±


    Max¡¯s breath yed around Vonda¡¯s chest. She opened her eyes and gave him her misty look.


    Vonda waited, her heart pounding. Her eyes followed Max¡¯s hands as he slowly unbuttoned his shirt one button at a time.


    Never in her life did Vonda thought that unbuttoning a shirt would be so erotic.


    Max helped Vonda to sit up. He finished his work in an instant. He skillfully removed the ck shirt from Vonda¡¯s white skin.


    Vonda gasped. Seeing Max¡¯s eyes fixed so intensely on her breasts clearly made her feel hot and cold. The very thing that made her breasts rise and fall in a very seductive motion.


    Max¡¯s hand was extended. It moved to Vonda¡¯s back and grabbed something there.


    Vonda held her breath. She clearly felt Max¡¯s fingers unhooking her bra. Letting a piece of her underwear came loose and then slide off.


    Max¡¯s eyes darkened. He realized that this was not the first time he had seen Vonda¡¯s chest, but this time it was different. It felt¡­ absolutely amazing.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s sigh escaped her again as shey back down and Max continued the torture of pleasure. And this time it was her breasts that were the target of Max¡¯s fondling.


    ¡°Ma¡­ x.¡±


    Max¡¯s tongue darted out. Giving a light touch to a tip of Vonda¡¯s already erect breast. Sessfully making Vonda gasped even more.


    ¡°Oh, Max.¡±


    Sigh after sigh escaped Vonda¡¯s lips. As did the lick after lick that Max gave her. Rubbing the smooth skin on the sides of her breasts, then giving rhythmic twirls to her nipples and finishing the torture with a powerful suck that made Vonda arch her body.


    As if that was not enough for Max, his hand moves to the other breast. At first, he only wanted to tongue fuck her, but Max could not resist the urge to feel the softness of Vonda¡¯s breasts in his hands.


    Vonda closed her eyes tightly. Max¡¯s tongue ying with her nipples and the squeezing of his hands massaging her breasts, made Vonda feel even more intoxicated.


    Vonda¡¯s free hand moved wildly. It groped for the mattress andnded on Max¡¯s shoulders. Squeezing hard, as if to channel her increasingly unbearable desire.


    Vonda tried to pull Max¡¯s body apart. Reluctantly, Max released Vonda¡¯s nipple from his mouth. He looked up at Vonda¡¯s flushed face.


    ¡°Why?¡± asked Max, panting. ¡°You don¡¯t like it?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s mouth opened and she gasped with a helpless look on her face. ¡°I-I can¡¯t take it anymore, Max.¡±


    As Vonda finished, Max felt Vonda¡¯s legs move restlessly beneath her.


    Max smiled crookedly. A hand yed with Vonda¡¯s nipple and said.


    ¡°I¡¯m not even halfway through, Von.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes bulged. ¡°N-not yet?¡±


    It was torture, but also a shadow of pleasure. And Max proved it.


    Rising for a moment, Max undressed his body. Even the clothes that were still on Vonda¡¯s body.


    Vonda held her breath. Her body trembled as she saw Max¡¯s manhood. Intimate images came to mind and her desire could no longer be contained.


    ¡°Shhh. Wait, Von. I¡¯m not done yet.¡±


    Max pushed away Vonda¡¯s hand that was trying to reach him. It was as if he wanted to emphasize what he had said earlier. That the torture he was going to give Vonda was not half done. And he proved his words.


    It was very difficult for Vonda to hold on. She closed her eyes, squeezed the sheets under her body and let out long sighs. That¡¯s all she could do when Max ced his lips on Vonda¡¯s skin again.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Max gave Vonda a peck on the neck, then switched to fondling her nipples. ying with them with his tongue. Moving around, flicking and then sucking hard.


    Vonda became more and more excited. Her legs moved chaotically. She opened them and put Max between them.


    One of Vonda¡¯s legs rose. Itnded on Max¡¯s body and the boy felt Vonda¡¯s moisture on his skin. Tempting, but Max didn¡¯t want to touch her yet. Not yet.


    Max¡¯s hands held on to Vonda¡¯s body, which twitched restlessly. Max was determined to finish the game he wanted.


    Releasing Vonda¡¯s breasts from his mouth, Max made a long, warm stroke with his tongue. He started at the belly and worked his way up to Vonda¡¯s cleavage.


    ¡°Oh my, oh!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s sighs hypnotized Max. It made him chase her even more and give her another lick that was no less intoxicating.


    Not only that, but the suction from Max¡¯s mouth was causing signs of redness. It seemed to spread over the entire skin of Vonda¡¯s body. From her belly to her chest.


    Then¡­ Max slowly worked his way down. Toward one of the most tantalizing ces he could imagine.


    Vonda opened her eyes. She held her breath as she watched Max¡¯s lips peck at her womanhood. It made her feelings even more intense.


    Down below, Max lifted his face slightly. He stared at Vonda with passionate eyes.


    The same was true for Vonda. The passion in her was growing more intense by the moment.


    Max decided to waste no time. He immediately goes down to the softness down there with his outstretched tongue.


    The tip of Max¡¯s tongue made its first contact at the threshold of Vonda¡¯s femininity. It moved up. Up, then in long strokes until it ended in a single touch on Vonda¡¯s clit.


    ¡°Max!¡±


    Vonda screamed the name, both hands clutching the sheets tightly. As her body began to rise. She gasped as her chest rose and fell.


    Max grinned. He stood up slightly and pushed Vonda¡¯s body back down. He whispered in her ear.


    ¡°Don¡¯t disturb my pleasure just yet, Von,¡± Max said. ¡°I still want to enjoy you with my tongue.¡±


    Vonda swallowed. She clearly knew that this would be a truly excruciating pleasure for her.


    She did not want to, but her mind gave her visions. What kind of torture Vonda would getter.


    ¡°M¡­ ax-¡±


    Max muffled her name in the kiss he gave her. A deep, tender kiss. A kiss that made Vonda surrender. A kiss that unfortunately didn¡¯tst long.


    ¡°I want you¡­¡±


    Max grabbed Vonda¡¯s legs and she let him guide her legs to spread them. Allowing Max a clear view of the scene.


    ¡°¡­ open.¡±


    Max¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple rose and fell as his eyes saw the shiny hole down there. With the curls trimmed, oh my! In Max¡¯s eyes, it was the most intoxicating temptation of all.


    Slowly descending, Max said. ¡°Stay like that, Von. Let me taste your taste.¡±


    Holding her breath, Vonda¡¯s eyes watched Max¡¯s face as he moved closer and closer to her womanhood. She was ashamed to open her legs like that, but the thought of pleasure made her unable to resist.


    In the next second, Vonda could no longer look down. Max¡¯s touch immediately made her press her head against the pillow and close her eyes. The touch felt so¡­ intoxicating.


    Max¡¯s tongue returned. The tip went straight to Vonda¡¯s womanhood. Entering and moving wildly. Touching the moisture and all the warmth inside.


    It felt just like Max had imagined, or maybe¡­ more. It really made him feel like he was in heaven and getting the most beautiful treat, which was Vonda.


    Max sensed that Vonda was getting restless and that¡¯s why both of his hands grabbed Vonda¡¯s legs. He tried to keep the position open.


    Max was not satisfied with just feeling Vonda¡¯s pleasure in there. Max¡¯s tongue moved in circles. Feeling the walls of Vonda¡¯s asshole, then moving up. Pressing in there. Trying to find the spot where¡­


    ¡°Oh! Ah! Max! Oh!¡±


    Vonda babbled, growing more agitated. Max held Vonda¡¯s leg without stopping his teasing. Max¡¯s tongue moved with increasing dexterity. He pushed, twisted and stabbed as deep as he could go.


    Vonda¡¯s sighs were gone. They were reced by long moans. Even her breaths became short, and as Max¡¯s tongue made its final twist and squeeze, Vonda squealed loudly.


    The pleasure that hit Vonda sublimated into many tastes. They flooded Max¡¯s taste buds inside. He tasted them too. Not letting the evidence of Vonda¡¯s pleasure go to waste.


    ¡°Oh my God, Max.¡±


    Vonda gasped. Dizzy from the sensations, but it was not over yet. Downstairs, Max finished his tongue y with a single kiss that crushed both of Vonda¡¯s feminine lips.


    Max walks over to Vonda and gets her down on all fours. He holds her with one hand while his other hand reaches out. He strokes Vonda¡¯s cheek, removing the hair that clings to it. She smiled with a look that conveyed pride and satisfaction at the same time.


    ¡°How was it?¡± asked Max. ¡°Did you like it?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips were still open, trying to take in as much air as she could. She looked at Max with apletely foggy and helpless look.


    Really. Vonda felt very weak right now. And if she could be honest, Vonda would say so. She had never thought that the tongue¡­ could make her so helpless.


    ¡°That was¡­¡± Vonda swallowed, trying to help her parched throat. ¡°¡­ amazing.¡±


    An answer that sent Max¡¯s male ego soaring. A grin appeared on his face.


    ¡°We¡¯re not there yet, Von.¡±


    Vonda knew that. More than knew. If you want to add, it was not knowing. Rather, she was waiting for the core.


    Vonda¡¯s gaze dropped from Max¡¯s eyes to his private parts. To the manhood that stood proudly, as if teasing her. Vonda gets up to sit down.


    Max pulled himself up a little. He knelt down and Vonda grabbed his manhood.


    This time Max¡¯s eyes were full of anticipation. Waiting and what happened next was something he had never imagined. That was Vonda¡¯s mouth scooping up his manhood and Max¡¯s sighs echoing.


    Vonda could tell that Max liked her touch and to be honest, she did too. To feel Max¡¯s manhood in her mouth. To swallow it. Giving him a soft massage by her lips. Oh my God! It made her body feel like it was on fire again.


    But Vonda found Max¡¯s hands pressing gently on her shoulders. Making the manhood that had been in her mouth slowlye out.


    Max looked into Vonda¡¯s eyes, then lowered his face. He kisses Vonda¡¯s lips with a deep hug. Vonda immediately pulled her legs together as she felt the urge toe again.


    Vonda reached out. Grabbed Max¡¯s neck. Returning the kiss with no less fervor. She stuck out her tongue and let Max suck on it.


    A secondter, Vonda was back on the pillow as Max stood. He grabbed a pack of condoms and quickly put them on. Then he went back to Vonda, who was very ready.


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyeballs rolled once before her eyes closed. Her hands shot up and squeezed the pillow under her head.


    That was when Max rhythmically thrusted his manhood into Vonda¡¯s womanhood. She let out a long sigh as she savored the full taste of Max¡¯s manhood.


    Propped up on one elbow, Max gently caressed Vonda¡¯s cheeks with the back of his hand. Smiling, he nted a kiss there.


    ¡°How¡¯s it going?¡± Max asked. ¡°Ready?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s lips immediately broke into a smile. Her eyes opened and she looked at Max. She nodded very slowly.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready.¡±


    It only took one answer and then the rhythmic movement began. Creating a serene atmosphere for both.


    Max grabbed Vonda¡¯s waist as she began to move. Back and forth with the proper intonation. They were beginning to enjoy their lovemaking that night. And so did Vonda, who could not stop sighing as Max moved to lead the two of them.


    Vonda felt it. Max¡¯s manhood that often plunged so deeply into her womanhood. Making her moan long.


    And not only that. While Max¡¯s manhood was moving inside her, there were lips that did not stop giving her pleasure. Max cupped Vonda¡¯s earlobe, then reached down to nt a wet kiss on Vonda¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Oh, Max.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes were closed tightly. The caress of Max¡¯s lips made her even more intoxicated.


    Just like Max felt. Feeling the warmth of Vonda¡¯s femininity, tasting the taste of Vonda¡¯s skin, and hearing Vonda¡¯s sighs was too much for him. They encouraged Max to push even harder.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    Max growled. Pressing down on his manhood with a force that made Vonda gasp even more.


    But the touch only made Vonda want more. She wrapped her legs around Max¡¯s waist. Allowing Max to go deeper and deeper.


    As time passed, Vonda becamepletely overwhelmed. All the sensations Max was giving her made her feel even better. Until she grabbed Max¡¯s hair. Squeezing it with all her might as her sighs echoed through the room.


    ¡°Max, oh!¡±


    Max¡¯s sighs became more and more intense. He lifted his knees slightly and moved more wildly. The thrusts became faster and stronger. Creating a heat that made them both burn with the fire of passion.


    ¡°Oh, Von.¡±


    Max clenched his jaw. He felt the exquisite urgency as Vonda stood and pushed his body away. Switching positions, Vonda sat on top of him.


    Max¡¯s grin widened. Vonda smiled mischievously. Her hands clung to Max¡¯s chest while her ass moved beautifully over his body.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s head lifted. She savored the sensations she was causing and gave Max a glimpse of her beautiful body movements.


    ¡°Oh my God, Vonda. You¡¯re really¡­¡±


    Max did not know what to say. But he was absolutely mesmerized by Vonda. With her back hair disheveled, her face flushed, her breathing ragged, and her breasts heaving with excitement, Vonda was the very essence of temptation.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± Vonda asked with a seductive smile.


    Max swallowed. His hands tried to rise. But then Max decided to actually stand up. Facing Vonda who was still moving on top of him. Max squeezed both her breasts.


    ¡°Oh!¡±


    Max¡¯s lips sought a ce in Vonda¡¯s ear. ¡°More than like,¡± he whispered as he squeezed Vonda¡¯s breasts.


    Vonda closed her eyes, enjoying Max¡¯s squeeze, and sighed again.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Max asked back. ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes opened and she replied. ¡°More than like.¡±


    Max grabbed her slender waist with one hand as Vonda continued to move. Max¡¯s other hand squeezed her breast.


    Even Max¡¯s mouth participated. Squeezing Vonda¡¯s breasts. Putting them in his mouth until Max felt drunk.


    There was Vonda driving them both. There were breasts in his mouth and in his hands. Oh! All these sensations werepletely unimaginable to Max before.


    ¡°Max! Max! Max!¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice sounded changed. Her breathing became shorter and shorter. And Vonda¡¯s movements became stronger and faster.


    Max let go of Vonda¡¯s breasts. He decided to hold them tightly as Vonda continued to whimper.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Max held Vonda in his arms. Even then he spurred her on down there. Meanwhile, he whispered as well.


    ¡°Yes, Von. Keep going, sweetheart.¡±


    Vonda returned Max¡¯s hug with great force. Her face became more and more grimacing by the second.


    ¡°Max, I¡¯m ¡­..¡±


    Max reassured Vonda, ¡°Let go, Von. Give me this pleasure.¡±


    Max¡¯s words made Vonda move even more erotically. Max was overwhelmed because he had to hold Vonda in his arms. And then Max felt it.


    Vonda was pulling Max hard. She grabbed his neck and pulled his hair. With short breaths, Vonda pushed her womanhood to really get Max¡¯s manhood inside her. She whimpered as she felt the impact inside her and then screamed.


    A scream that was so beautiful to Max¡¯s ears. It was also a sign to Max that Vonda wasing again.


    The shock of her orgasm tightened Vonda¡¯s female muscles. Max¡¯s manhood, still moving inside her, seemed trapped.


    Lost in the wash of pleasure, Vonda was almost surprised to find her body being pushed back by Max. Shey on the bed and Max continued to move. Harder. Faster. Spurred on by Vonda¡¯s pleasure.


    Minute after minute passed. Max knew he was going to the edge and Vonda understood.


    Vonda helped guide Max. Moving her feminine muscles to tighten in there. Giving Max¡¯s manhood a soothing massage sensation. Finally, Max cried out.


    ¡°Von! Von!¡±


    With thest stroke, Max went in hard and deep. Vonda was stunned and panting.


    Max growled loudly into Vonda¡¯s ear. Her defenses were shattered. A storm of orgasms hit her. Her body seemed to melt. Broken into pieces. It was almost as if she was dying of pleasure.


    For a few moments, Max pulled himself together. He did not want to rush out of Vonda¡¯s body. Either he was afraid to let go of her body or he was afraid that he would copse without strength. Or maybe it was both.


    When he felt calm enough, Max pulled himself up. He steps out of Vonda¡¯s body and their eyes meet.


    Vonda smiled as she extended her hand. She wiped the sweaty spot on Max¡¯s jaw.


    Max looked away slightly. He pecked Vonda¡¯s palm before getting up and going to the bathroom. He threw away the used condom.


    Back on the bed, Max found Vonda slightly dislocated on the pillow. Correcting the position of the pillow and duvet that had been disturbed by their lovemaking.


    Max joined Vonda under the duvet. Vonda greeted him. She reflexively hugged Max, even burying her face in his broad chest.


    Max hugged Vonda back and nted a kiss on her head. Whispering as he rubbed Vonda¡¯s innocent arm.


    ¡°Go to sleep. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll take you to the unit and we¡¯ll go to the office together.¡±


    Exhausted and sleepy, but also so happy, Vonda nodded weakly. Saying nothing but enjoying Max¡¯s stroke after stroke that lulled her. Making her slowly lose consciousness in a smile on her face. A smile that came from a single thought.


    Max was¡­ calling me¡­ sweetheart?


    *

 Sparks of Chaos

    ¡°Yes¡­ Your mom already told me about the origin of your name.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Seriously?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha. She said it means maximum effort.¡±


    ¡°I know you like to talk. I just didn¡¯t expect she to say something like that.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! I think you¡¯ll probably tell me everything. Just waiting for the time.¡±


    ¡°Tsk! Yeah, but I think you¡¯re right.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of names, aren¡¯t you afraid to ask me to stay here?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°What if your mom catches us? I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll be shocked.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! That¡¯s what I¡¯ve been working on since day one.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I changed the door password.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! You¡¯re bad, Max.¡±


    ¡°Again, Mom likes to show up out of the blue. You can imagine meing out of the bathroom wearing only my underwear. I was about to fill my stomach, which I had just emptied, and she was already standing in the kitchen. I was in shock, Von.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! I¡¯m sure you¡¯re even more shocked.¡±


    ¡°The thing is, we were both shocked. I got hit in the head by a cucumber that time. But it was Mom¡¯s fault, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! That¡¯s why you don¡¯t like to do the same thing.¡±


    ¡°Again, this is my house, right? I live alone. It¡¯s only natural that I go everywhere in my underwear. Um¡­ or do you mean it¡¯s better not to wear them at all?¡±


    ¡°You bastard!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Are you saying you don¡¯t like it?¡±


    Vonda was determined not to answer this question. So, it was no surprise that Vonda decided to change her position. She turned and faced Max, who was giggling.


    The boy, however, decided the opposite. Determined to get the answer. As a result, Max reached under the curve of Vonda¡¯s neck. He approached her from behind and whispered.


    ¡°Or very?¡±


    Vonda felt Max¡¯s voice and warm breath instantly tense her body. Max noticed.


    With his other hand, Max gently tugged at Vonda¡¯s shoulder. There was no resistance from Max until Vonday back in her original position.


    Max lifted his face slightly. He looked down and saw Vonda¡¯s eyelids fluttering gently. Her hands were clutching the edge of the bedspread that covered her chest.


    Without warning, Max lifted Vonda¡¯s chin. He lowered her facepletely and crushed her lips.


    Vonda¡¯s eyes closed suddenly. She felt both of her lips being gently touched by Max. A touch that made her let go of the nket and wrap her arms around Max¡¯s neck. Pulling him to deepen their kiss. When Max broke the kiss, their eyes slowly met.


    Vonda held her breath. Max¡¯s hand slipped under the covers. It brushed lightly over her nipples, then moved to her stomach, stroking her thighs very gently. And then Vonda had a natural urge to nce at the clock on the wall. Half past four in the morning.


    Max knew what Vonda was looking at. Because that¡¯s what he¡¯d seen a few minutes ago, when Vonda had turned her back on him. Then Max¡¯s hand moved again. This time to a ce that immediately made Vonda choke.


    Max grinned. He nted a quick kiss on Vonda¡¯s lips and then asked.


    ¡°Would you like a thirty-minute meal? Before we get ready to go to your unit?¡±


    It was not an answer that Vonda gave Max, but a tug on his neck that led to a long kiss. The next second Max was already on his way. Taking his ce between Vonda¡¯s wet slits. Pressing his body against hers, he reached as far as he could for the bedside table. Picking up a pack of condoms, which¡­ er, turns out to be ready for him at any time.


    *


    Sarah had known Vonda for a few years, well¡­ maybe eleven years. When they were in college to be exact. While friendships usually fade when school or college is over, the opposite was true for these two.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Perhaps it was the simrity of their craziness that made their rtionship flourish. So, it¡¯s not surprising that they already know each other well. Even better whenpared to remembering previous college material.


    As a result, it was not difficult for Sarah to spot the differences in Vonda. In the office cafeteria that afternoon, Sarah shook her head.


    ¡°Something has happened to you.¡±


    Words that made Vonda frown. She put down her spoon and asked.


    ¡°Pardon?¡±


    Sarah looked at Vonda. ¡°I said¡­ something wrong happened to you.¡± The girl leaned in, whispering a little this time. ¡°Let me guess. Something to do with your friend with benefits?¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Robbers!¡± interrupted Vonda. ¡°Don¡¯t you look around when you talk?¡±


    Sarah replied with a scowl, ¡°Oh my God, Vonda! Did you even look around before you smiled like that? You make me sick.¡±


    Oops!


    ¡°Did I?¡±


    Sarah still scowled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Vonda chuckled nervously. ¡°Sorry. I didn¡¯t realize I was smiling like that and making you sick all the time.¡± Something crossed her mind. ¡°But let¡¯s make sure. Are you sure you¡¯re feeling nauseous because-¡±


    ¡°Stop!¡± Sarah cut her off. ¡°I just got my period. Sorry, Von. We¡¯ll try again after this.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Seeing Vonda¡¯sughter, Sarah could only take a long breath. She remained silent. She decided not to say anything more. After all, Vonda seemed to have forgotten Sarah¡¯s question.


    Sarah took a sip of her tripe soup. Trying to stay calm.


    Well ¡­ I hope Mr. Hernandez is a real Oceanan too. If only Vonda is a real Oceanan, things could get messy.


    *


    ¡°Can you pick me up tomorrow? What time?¡±


    Vonda asked casually. Still with a potato chip in her mouth, her eyes looked up briefly. At Max, who asionally looked seriously at the news on the TV screen.


    Max looked down when the newscast was interrupted by amercial. His eyes went to Vonda, whoy rxed on her thighs.


    Seeing that, Max could not resist the urge in his chest. He reached out, grabbed a lock of hair that had fallen on Vonda¡¯s cheek, and gently stroked her head. When Vonda¡¯s eyes closed from his caress, Max immediately remembered Kitty, who had be more and more pampered with such stroking.


    Um¡­ it doesn¡¯t seem to matter what species it is; girls seem to like being petted, don¡¯t they?


    What a coincidence. It seemed that Max had also been petting Vondately.


    ¡°The event is tomorrow night at seven, but let¡¯s try Sunday night, Von. Let¡¯s leave at five. Instead of getting stuck in traffic and all that.¡±


    Vonda nodded. She grabbed another chip from the bowl and put it on her own stomach.


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll see you tomorrow at five.¡±


    ¡°Um.¡±


    Max cleared his throat. He was still ying with Vonda¡¯s hair while his brain was thinking. Seeing Vonda rxing with him that afternoon gave him mixed feelings.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you stay here tonight?¡±


    Vonda, still munching on chips, got up from herfortable position. She looked at Max, who had changed into casual clothes while she was still in her office attire.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    Max exhaled. He took the bowl of chips and quickly ate four pieces at a time. He replied casually.


    ¡°Stay here again. Let¡¯s go to your unit tomorrow and leave together. How about that?¡±


    Vonda swallowed and didn¡¯t answer Max¡¯s question for a while. Instead, she tried to control her mind, which was beginning to act out of control. Vonda¡¯s heart was pounding.


    ¡°Do you want to?¡±


    Max asked again. This time after putting the bowl of chips on the table. He wiped his hands with a napkin. He took a sip of water and turned back to Vonda, who looked frozen. As if she needed time to digest Max¡¯s invitation.


    In the next second, Max moved. Approaching Vonda. Catching her gaze.


    Being stared at like that made Vonda¡¯s heart beat even faster. She held her breath and answered with a nod of her head. Slowly, but enough to make Max smile. A smile that strangely managed to stop Vonda¡¯s heartbeat.


    Later that night, Vonda awoke from her sleep. Her eyes opened to the familiar dimness of Max¡¯s room. Even more familiar was the touch that greeted her skin. It was Max¡¯s hand cupping her innocent body under the covers.


    Slowly, Vonda tried to pull away. Not to get away, but to get closer to the boy. Shended a light kiss on Max¡¯s jaw before finally falling back into his arms. Sinking into the boy¡¯s chest.


    Max stirred in his sleep. He pulled Vonda tighter and tighter into his embrace. Vonda¡¯s face lifted slightly, looking up at Max, who was still asleep, as his hand moved to stroke her back.


    ¡°Shhh. Shhh.¡±


    Max¡¯s hiss made Vonda smile. She felt like a child being lulled back to sleep. But that did not mean Vonda did not like it.


    On the contrary, Vonda liked it very much. It made her fall back asleep in Max¡¯s arms. She was sleepy and tired from their lovemaking.


    *


    On a Saturday night, Max and Vonda arrived promptly at the ballroom of the Riviera Royale Hotel. Several invited guests had already filled the magnificent room. With its golden tones and shimmering luxury lights, the decorations seemed to indicate that the couple entering into a serious rtionship that night was no ordinary couple.


    As they walked together, Vonda let her hand rest on Max¡¯s left as she gracefully led their steps.


    ¡°Where are Mom and Dad?¡± Vonda asked.


    Max looked around. ¡°I¡¯m sure Mom said they got here earlier.¡±


    Vonda scanned the room, smiling as her eyes met those of other guests, including a girl across the room.


    ¡°So where do you think they are now?¡± Vonda inquired again.


    Max¡¯s hand gently patted Vonda¡¯s, still trying to find his parents. Just as a girl approached them in a panic.


    ¡°Via.¡±


    Max¡¯s brow furrowed as Olivia approached them, out of breath. She looked at Vonda with regret in her eyes.


    ¡°d to see you two are still going strong.¡±


    The greeting made both Vonda and Max nervous. They could not answer the words because Olivia spoke again.


    ¡°I¡¯m just¡­ I¡¯m sorry, Von. It seems I need to borrow Max for a moment.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Borrow me? Am I some kind of mannequin or¡­¡±


    ¡°Edeline escaped!¡± Olivia cut him off.


    ¡°Escaped?¡±


    Vonda remained silent, confused by the conversation between Max and Olivia. She did not even know who they were talking about.


    ¡°Yes. Escaped! When we checked her room earlier, all that was there was her dress. It looks like she¡­ she¡­¡±


    ¡°What is it, Via?¡± Max asked impatiently. ¡°Please speak clearly.¡±


    Olivia clenched her fists in frustration. ¡°It looks like she took chloroform from my room to drug the hotel staff.¡±


    Max was shocked. ¡°Huh? Why do you have chloroform in your room?¡±


    ¡°That is my Ph. D. research material, Max.¡±


    ¡°That is a room, not ab!¡±


    The conversation became even more confusing for Vonda. She worked up the courage to interrupt.


    ¡°Excuse me, but what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Max and Olivia both looked at Vonda, perhaps just realizing that she was there and seemed to have no idea what they were talking about.


    Max pointed at Olivia. ¡°She has a sister who has a habit of running away. This time she even ran away from her own engagement party.¡±


    ¡°Ran away?¡± Vonda asked incredulously.


    Olivia nodded. ¡°Not just ran away. She even openly med you and me, Max. Because if we hadn¡¯t broken off our engagement, right now, at this party, it wouldn¡¯t be Edeline as the main character. It would be us.¡±


    ¡°So?¡±


    Vonda asked in a worried tone. For some reason, her heart suddenly started to race.


    ¡°So, I was supposed to help Olivia find her sister,¡± Max concluded. ¡°Instead of getting dragged into this party.¡±


    Olivia¡¯s face turned horrified. ¡°I¡¯d rather drown in the Antic Ocean than marry you, Max.¡±


    ¡°Same. I¡¯d rather be struck by lightning than marry you, Via.¡±


    Max sighed deeply and looked at Vonda, who blinked as if she knew she would be left alone at the big party.


    ¡°Could you call Mom? Tell her I¡¯m going to help Via for a while. Is it okay if I go?¡±


    Vonda was clearly not the type to enjoy parties alone, but she understood the situation.


    Max cupped one of Vonda¡¯s cheeks, his thumb gently caressing it.


    ¡°Hopefully this won¡¯t take long.¡±


    Olivia rolled her eyes in exasperation. ¡°Oh, please. Are you two really going to get all cuddly when lives are at stake?¡±


    Vonda smiled, taking Max¡¯s wrist, and lowering it. She nodded. ¡°Take care.¡±


    Max exhaled deeply, and as Olivia pulled his hand away, she said, ¡°I¡¯m going to borrow your boyfriend for a while, Von.¡±


    Vonda blushed and Max reminded her before they left, ¡°Call Mom right away.¡±


    Vonda could only nod briefly. She watched Max and Olivia walk away from her. Briefly, she heard Olivia ask Max something.


    ¡°What? You forgot to give Vonda a goodbye kiss?¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding me? You¡¯re so dramatic. That¡¯s why it¡¯s time to get married at thirty.¡±


    ¡°Just like you, who¡¯s already married.¡±


    Then Vonda could not hear their voices anymore, drowned out by the ambient noise.


    Vonda took out her cell phone, intending to call Riley, but a voice made her change her mind.


    ¡°Are you¡­ Max¡¯s girlfriend?¡±


    Vonda turned to see a girl she remembered making eye contact with earlier. They exchanged a brief smile, but Vonda felt that a smile was not a strong enough reason for strangers to greet each other and asked something like that.


    Wait a minute. Something caused Vonda to furrow her brow.


    Max¡¯s girlfriend?


    ¡°Oh¡­ that,¡± Vonda cleared her throat, but answered anyway, ¡°Yes. My name is Vonda.¡±


    Vonda held out her hand and offered an introduction that the girl epted.


    ¡°Giselle,¡± she replied. ¡°Giselle Thompson.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Vonda nodded quietly. ¡°A friend of Max and Via¡¯s, right?¡±


    Then the girl in the ck ankle-length dress shook her head. Her eyes blinked once before she answered.


    ¡°I¡¯m Max¡¯s ex-fiancee.¡±


    *

 An Explosion of Feelings

    ¡°Nothing, really. It¡¯s just that I feel like his face is familiar to me.¡±


    ¡°Familiar?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I asked if you¡¯ve known him for a while. It seems he was once engaged to my cousin of nephew¡¯s sister-inw¡¯s friend.¡±


    ¡°Engagement?¡±


    ¡°That was in the past. Don¡¯t worry about it. Besides, I just wanted to check. Is he really the Max I know? Besides, I don¡¯t think he knows me. I mean, I only vaguely remember now because we only met at his engagement party before.¡±


    ¡°Seriously?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. That was a long time ago. I think it was over five years ago. They were only engaged for three or four months.¡±


    ¡°They didn¡¯t get married?¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Von. If they got married, there¡¯s no way he¡¯d be here with you. That would mean their rtionship had failed.¡±


    ~


    At that moment, Vonda was suddenly reminded of her conversation at a high school friend¡¯s wedding party. A conversation with Samuel where he briefly mentioned Max¡¯s failed engagement. At the time, Vonda had thought that Samuel might be mistaken, or that even if it was true, it was just a thing of the past.


    But wait. Why should she convince herself that it was just in the past? To calm the strange turmoil that had suddenly arisen in her chest?


    ¡°Max and I¡­ were engaged once.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s voice shattered Vonda¡¯s suddenly chaotic thoughts. She blinked twice and looked at Giselle¡¯s beautiful face. Honestly, Vonda did not know how to react to this information.


    Earlier she had said that she was Max¡¯s ex-fiancee, right? So that meant by default that she and Max had been engaged. What did she mean by that? I¡¯m not that clueless.


    Still, Vonda tried to keep herposure. Instead of expressing her thoughts, she smiled broadly.


    ¡°Oh, yes. I know.¡±


    Ironically, that was all Vonda could say. However, her brief words brought a frown to Giselle¡¯s face.


    ¡°You know?¡±


    Vonda nodded once.


    ¡°Did Max tell you?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes blinked again. ¡°Uh, well¡­¡±


    ¡°Did he tell you why we broke up?¡±


    A question that made Vonda ufortable. It was clear from her expression that Vonda did not like the questions Giselle was asking her.


    ¡°That¡­ is your business,¡± Vonda repliedter. ¡°I have no connection to your past.¡±


    There was a moment of silence. For a while there was no sound between Vonda and Giselle. There was only the buzz of the confused guests around them, wondering why the evening¡¯s event had not started yet.


    ¡°Have you been with him long?¡± Giselle asked.


    Vonda took a deep breath. Frankly, she was surprised by the girl¡¯s next question. No wonder what Vonda said was not an answer but another question.


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve been asking me questions all this time, what do you mean? Are you interrogating me or something?¡±


    Giselle looked as if she swallowed hard and clenched her hands. ¡°I¡¯m just¡­ asking.¡±


    ¡°Oh! In that case, you seem to be the kind of girl who doesn¡¯t know how to find topics of conversation on a first meet,¡± Vonda remarked. ¡°Does that make sense? We just met and you¡¯re asking me weird questions? Why not ask where the toilet is or something?¡±


    ¡°Sorry. I-¡±


    ¡°Enough with the apologies,¡± Vonda cut in quickly. For some reason, her breath was suddenly heated. ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    Vonda decided to leave, feeling useless to continue being alone with Giselle. Especially since those questions made her ufortable.


    However, Giselle reached out her hand as Vonda was about to turn around, grabbed Vonda¡¯s hand and stopped her in her tracks.


    Vonda was taken aback. She looked down at her hand, and then her face slowly regained itsposure as she looked at Giselle.


    ¡°I need to ask you something,¡± Giselle began.


    Vonda tried to be patient, although patience was clearly not one of Vonda¡¯s qualities.


    ¡°You still want to ask?¡± Vonda inquired.


    Giselle seemed to bite her lower lip.


    ¡°You want to ask about my rtionship with Max?¡± Vonda asked again. ¡°Is that it?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s face looked shocked, but she did not deny it. Instead, she nodded.


    Wow! Extraordinary honesty.


    Trying to remain calm, Vonda realized that Giselle¡¯s earlier honesty had had a tremendous effect on her. Now Vonda could feel her chest heating up. Even the airing out of her nostrils felt hot. It was as if she had suddenly turned into a dragon and could breathe fire out of her nose. It was a strange sensation that really drained her energy.


    So, Vonda slowly tried to release Giselle¡¯s hand that was still holding her wrist. She tried to smile, even though her face looked incredibly stiff at the moment.


    ¡°In that case, you can ask Max directly about our rtionship. I don¡¯t want to reveal anything about our rtionship to someone I don¡¯t know.¡±


    But Giselle did not let go of Vonda¡¯s hand. She persisted until Vonda¡¯s brow furrowed in difort.


    ¡°Is your rtionship serious?¡±


    Darn!


    ¡°W-what?¡±


    This time, Vonda paid no attention to her hands, focusing instead on Giselle¡¯s question. When Vonda¡¯s eyes met hers, she could see how serious Giselle was. Giselle was really waiting for Vonda¡¯s answer, and that was difficult for Vonda.


    ¡°That¡­ um¡­¡±


    ¡°I know that Max and I broke up five years ago. I know it was my fault. I left him, but Max needs to know. I still love him to this day.¡±


    Perhaps it was at that moment that Vonda experienced the truth of the saying, ¡°The heart seemed to stop beating. For a moment after Giselle uttered that sentence, Vonda felt as if her heart had indeed stopped beating.


    A cold sensation enveloped her, trapping Vonda and making her instantly weak. For a few moments, Vonda could only remain silent, as if to give Giselle time to continue.


    ¡°I really do still love him and I want to apologize to him. Max needs to know that I never forgot him all this time,¡± Giselle said as she took a deep breath. ¡°I still love him.¡±


    Vonda was stunned. She remained silent, not knowing what to say in response to Giselle¡¯s confession. All she knew was that this reality made her feel lifeless.


    At that moment, memories of the past shed through Vonda¡¯s mind. Specifically, the incident in the parking lot involving her, Max, and Andrew. Max had scolded her mercilessly in the car, expressing his disapproval of a girl who chose a bad guy. Worse, Max had said one word. ¡°Hate.¡±


    Finally, Vonda understood. Finding Giselle in front of her made her understand Max¡¯s attitude. It waspletely understandable. Max had been hurt by Giselle.


    ¡°I-if you really love him¡­¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice was soft, almost a whisper, but still clearly audible to Giselle.


    ¡°If you really love him, then why did you leave him?¡±


    Giselle blinked. ¡°What?¡±


    Vonda swallowed hard and jerked her hand out of Giselle¡¯s grip.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    At first, Giselle thought Vonda would leave, but she was wrong. On the contrary, Vonda confronted her with a flushed face.


    ¡°If you really love him, why did you leave him? Why did you marry someone else?¡±


    There was anger in the question and it startled Giselle. She quickly nced left and right, at some of the other guests who seemed to have noticed the change in the atmosphere between them.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    A minute ago, Vonda had felt as if her body had gone numb. But now she felt something different, something more disturbing, as Giselle¡¯s words echoed in her mind.


    She said she loved Max?


    There was a sudden surge of anger and Vonda felt her vision darken. She seemed to feel thousands of emotions, ready to explode at any moment.


    ¡°Is that what love is, leaving him to marry someone else?¡± Vonda shouted again. ¡°I may not be very smart, Giselle, but I do know one thing. If we love someone, that means we don¡¯t leave them!¡±


    Giselle¡¯s feet moved back again. That was when Vonda, consciously or not, moved forward.


    Both of Vonda¡¯s eyes locked on Giselle. The fiery gleam in her eyes made Giselle shrink instantly. Vonda was truly angry.


    ¡°If you really loved him, you should have married him. Not someone else!¡±


    Repeatedly insulting someone in front of the public was certainly shocking to Giselle. Her face turned red, just like Vonda¡¯s. The difference was that if Giselle¡¯s face was red from embarrassment, Vonda¡¯s was red from anger.


    ¡°Why are you getting so mad at me?¡± Giselle askedter. ¡°Do you realize what you¡¯re doing? This is in public! Are you trying to embarrass me?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Vonda blinked. ¡°Angry?¡±


    That one word seemed to stick in Vonda¡¯s throat.


    Am I angry? Why am I angry?


    Vonda blinked once, feeling the heat in her eyes.


    ¡°Yes, I am! I am angry! I know exactly what I¡¯m doing. Meanwhile, you who think about embarrassment, have you ever thought about how Max felt back then?¡±


    Whispers immediately spread around them. As if onmand, the guests moved closer to form a circle with Vonda and Giselle in the center. Perhaps they saw it as free entertainment while they waited for the event to begin.


    For Vonda, she did not care about anything else at that moment. In her eyes, there was only herself and Giselle.


    ¡°I¡¯m angry, Giselle! How could you waste someone like Max!¡± Vonda shouted again. She bit her lower lip hard, trying to hold back her frustration. ¡°You¡¯re a brainless girl! Max is the best, the most amazing guy¡­¡±


    Vonda¡¯s fists clenched at her sides. No matter how thunderous her voice was, that was Vonda. She was a girl who always spoke her mind, regardless of where she was. She did not seem to care that many people were interested in themotion she was causing. She did not care that there were people in different corners trying to get to her as fast as possible.


    Vonda did not care. She only cared about one thing: expressing herself, even if her voice eventually lost its strength.


    ¡°¡­ the most incredible person I¡¯ve ever met.¡±


    Giselle was silent for a moment. ¡°I¡­¡±


    Vonda wiped her face, lifted her head and took a deep breath. She forced a painful smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ve only known him a few months, but it¡¯s enough to know what kind of person he is. The way he treats his parents. His love for his mother. His kindness to the people around him. His maturity. His spoiled nature.¡±


    There was a truly suffocating feeling in Vonda¡¯s chest as she said all this. An uneasiness that managed to bring a tear to the corner of her eye.


    ¡°For a guy like that, you traded him for someone else who made you suffer?¡± Vonda asked. ¡°Don¡¯t you know there are hundreds of girls out there hoping to find a guy like Max?¡±


    Yelled at, cornered and humiliated, Giselle tried not to react at first. She was still trying to keep herposure in front of so many guests. But it seemed that Vonda¡¯s words managed to ignite Giselle¡¯s emotions.


    ¡°I know I wasted Max before. I was stupid back then, but I still really love him.¡±


    ¡°Even the dumbest person wouldn¡¯t let go of someone they love!¡± Vonda shouted. ¡°You¡­ you¡­ Max loved you once. You shouldn¡¯t have wasted his feelings.¡±


    Vonda blinked. Something ran down her cheeks.


    ¡°You were lucky to be loved by Max, but you wasted it all.¡±


    She tried again to regain control, but failed. Vonda could not hold back her tears and her voice trembled with a painful tone.


    ¡°If it were me¡­ no matter how stupid I might be¡­ I would never waste Max for another man or for¡­ anyone else.¡±


    As this sentence fell from Vonda¡¯s lips, there was a sudden silence. Especially as Vonda lowered her head.


    Vonda tried to wipe away her tears with shaking hands. It happened just as a voice came from the crowd.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    It was a deep voice calling Vonda¡¯s name. It came from the crowd of onlookers who were still watching the situation. Ironically, some of them were videotaping the situation.


    Vonda lifted her head to look at the source of the voice, and so did Giselle. Both girls were equally shocked when they saw who it was. Of course, it was Max, the guy who had be the subject of the two girls¡¯ excitement.


    Max stepped forward, followed by Olivia. He looked straight into Vonda¡¯s eyes without blinking.


    ¡°Vonda, you¡­¡±


    But Vonda was too confused. Various overwhelming emotions tightened in her chest so that she spoke immediately.


    ¡°Forgive me, Max,¡± Vonda whispered, beating her chest once. ¡°I know I have no right to speak like this, but¡­ it really is suffocating me.¡± She pointed at Giselle. ¡°¡­ to see her left you for another man.¡±


    Max¡¯s jaw seemed to move up and down rapidly. He raised his hands and held both of Vonda¡¯s upper arms to steady her.


    ¡°Vonda. Vonda.¡±


    But Vonda seemed to be losing consciousness. She was so dazed that she didn¡¯t pay attention to Max¡¯s attempts to calm her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry too, Max. I can¡¯t go on with all this.¡± Vonda shook her head. ¡°I can¡¯t keep pretending when I¡­ I¡­¡± Vonda looked tired as she finished her sentence. ¡°Everything between us feels so real, Max.¡±


    Max¡¯s hands caressed Vonda¡¯s arms. ¡°Vonda-¡±


    ¡°Excuse me. What¡¯s going on?¡±


    A voice interrupted Vonda¡¯s words, drawing the crowd¡¯s attention to a group of well-dressed individuals emerging from the other side. Several people in formal attire appeared.


    Vonda did not know who they were. However, there were two middle-aged faces that she certainly recognized. So, Vonda let go of Max¡¯s grip.


    ¡°Dad. Mom. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Max reached for Vonda again. ¡°Vonda, listen. Vonda.¡±


    But Vonda ignored him. What happened next was that Vonda spoke again.


    ¡°I can¡¯t go on with all this, Max. I hope you¡¯ll be happy.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Max¡¯s words hung in the air as in the next second Vonda pulled away again. This time she ran away from Max and themotion, not giving Max a chance to speak.


    The incident happened too quickly and had deadly consequences. At least a middle-aged woman was in shock.


    ¡°Vonda!¡±


    When Riley suddenly screamed hysterically, Max knew he had to go after Vonda. He had to exin the situation right then and there. He did not want Vonda to draw her own conclusions. But Giselle, who had been silent the whole time, suddenly sprang into action. She grabbed Max¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    *


    Vonda did not care about her appearance as she left the hotel. Disheveled, with tears streaming down, and an aching heart. She hastened her steps. When she managed to g down a taxi, she immediately called Sarah.


    ¡°Sarah.¡±


    On the other end, Sarah froze upon hearing Vonda¡¯s voice, which sounded different than usual. She approached cautiously and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Von?¡±


    Vonda paused for a moment, trying to hold back her sobs. But it was futile. Her shoulders shook even more with the pressure of the pain. Her chest was getting increasingly painful, and she could not hold on much longer.


    ¡°I love him, Sar. I really love him.¡±


    Sarah was the first person who was not surprised at all by Vonda¡¯s confession. That¡¯s why Sarah just sighed deeply.


    ¡°Come back and cry your heart out. Tomorrow, I¡¯lle to your ce. Okay?¡±


    Vonda did not respond. She nodded through her tears, letting the pain squeeze her heart even tighter.


    Oh God. I love Max.


    *

 Meaning of Waiting

    By that time, Max and Olivia had given up trying to find Edeline, who had escaped. They both realized that Edeline had most likely left the hotel. The conclusion was clear: the evening¡¯s event was a failure. So, they were nning to return to find Vonda when shouts rang through the air.


    Max did not know what was going on and honestly did not care. His only concern was every word that came out of Vonda¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°If it were me¡­ no matter how stupid I might be¡­ I would never waste Max for another man or for¡­ anyone else.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry too, Max. I can¡¯t go on with all this. I can¡¯t keep pretending when I¡­ I¡­ Everything between us feels so real, Max.¡±


    When Riley¡¯s voice rang out, calling out Vonda¡¯s name, Max snapped out of his own thoughts.


    Vonda.


    Max¡¯s legs moved. He wanted to run after Vonda right away. But a hand stopped him, apanied by a soft voice.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Max realized that another girl had been there all along. A girl who had been absent for a long time and who had once been an inseparable part of his life.


    ¡°Giselle.¡±


    Giselle cleared her throat and looked at Max with a mixture of emotions: longing, regret and hope.


    Max refrained from taking another step. Riley noticed and went into a hysterical fit.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to go after Vonda, Max?¡±


    Max turned to Riley, who had turned red-either from anger or something else-but her face had hardened.


    ¡°Riley.¡±


    Giselle immediately greeted Riley before she could speak to Max. She let go of Max¡¯s hand and tried to shake the middle-aged woman¡¯s hand, but was rebuffed.


    ¡°Why have youe back here, Giselle? What is your purpose in seeing Vonda? If you¡¯re here for family reasons, go ahead, but don¡¯t make my future daughter-inw leave like you did before!¡±


    Riley¡¯s statement shocked Giselle. Her lips parted, but she could not say anything. Her lips trembled and her eyes darted from Riley to Max.


    ¡°Your future daughter-inw?¡±


    Giselle¡¯s voice was barely a whisper as she asked, especially when she asked Max another question.


    ¡°Is she your future wife, Max?¡±All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Riley¡¯s patience was running out. She reached out and grabbed Giselle¡¯s hand, unable to contain her anger.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t get angry at all when you left Max, Giselle. That was your choice. But if you make Vonda leave, I will never forgive you for the rest of my life!¡±


    ¡°Mama.¡±


    Max grabbed Riley¡¯s hand and let go of Giselle¡¯s. He slowly tried to calm his mother.


    ¡°Mom, how about we go in the back?¡± Max suggested.


    Max quickly assessed the situation. It was too embarrassing to continue their private conversation in front of the public. But Riley did not seem to understand that.


    Riley looked at Max in disbelief and pointed at Giselle as she spoke to her son.


    ¡°You¡¯re defending that girl, Max? The girl who chose another guy when your rtionship was already serious?¡±


    ¡°Ma, I-¡±


    ¡°I know I was wrong, Riley. I apologize and I will make it right,¡± Giselle quickly interrupted. ¡°I truly regret it.¡±


    Themotion erupted immediately. Max made a decision. He approached Giselle, further infuriating Riley.


    ¡°Max! If you leave Vonda, I will never forgive you, Max! You¡¯re not my son anymore!¡±


    Max froze, not only because of the outburst, but also because of the tears streaming down Riley¡¯s cheeks.


    Edmund tried to calm his wife, but it seemed useless.


    ¡°Honey, we¡¯re making a scene in front of everyone.¡±


    Max turned to Olivia, who was still there. With a pleading look, he asked, ¡°Please help Mom for a moment, Via.¡±


    Olivia understood. She reached out tofort Riley, whispering softly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go in the back, okay? I¡¯m sure Max knows what¡¯s best for him and you.¡±


    Riley looked pained and squeezed Olivia¡¯s hand. ¡°Via, but that girl¡­ she¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know.¡±


    Olivia continued to soothe her. They slowly led Riley away and left the area.


    Max let out a small sigh of relief. He was grateful to have a friend like Olivia in moments like this.


    Turning to Giselle, Max motioned for her to leave the scene.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk, Giselle.¡±


    Giselle was surprised but said nothing, following Max¡¯s footsteps as he led her away from themotion and whispering crowd.


    Max led Giselle into a messy room, a ce originally intended for Edeline and her partner to prepare before their public appearance.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Giselle called his name just as Max closed the door. Max turned to face her, his expression unreadable, at least in Giselle¡¯s eyes.


    Max took a deep breath. ¡°Why did you meet with Vonda, Giselle?¡±


    ¡°Max, I-¡±


    ¡°You knew you shouldn¡¯t have met Vonda, didn¡¯t you? You also shouldn¡¯t have shown up in front of all of us, Giselle. What do you want?¡±


    In an instant, Giselle stepped forward and grabbed both of Max¡¯s hands, her face looking pitiful. ¡°I know my mistake was huge, Max. But I¡¯ll do anything to get back to you. Anything.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s words made Max furrow his brow in disbelief. ¡°Come back to me?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Giselle replied, nodding. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m already divorced from Brody, and¡­¡±


    ¡°And after the divorce you thought ofing back to me?¡± Max interjected quickly. ¡°Is that it, Giselle?¡±


    Giselle was silent, then nodded. ¡°I know that marrying Brody was the worst mistake I ever made in my life, Max. It¡¯s been a hard lesson for me,¡± she said seriously. ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose you again. This time I¡¯ll fight for you, no matter what.¡±


    Max blinked once. He exhaled, his jaw moving up and down for a moment.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Max said with a bitter smile. Giselle¡¯s words left him incredulous. ¡°You lost me? Seriously? You left me, in case you forgot, Giselle! How can you say you lost me? Seriously?¡±


    ¡°Max,¡± Giselle said, her voice choking. ¡°I¡¯ll do anything to get back to you. Anything. I¡¯ll make up for every mistake I ever made. Give me a chance, Max. I¡¯ll prove it all.¡±


    ¡°Oh God.¡±


    Max looked around slowly. He walked to the center of the room, perhaps needing more air than usual because his body was experiencing a fiery sensation that made his blood rush through his veins.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you see, Giselle, that Vonda is in my life now?¡± Max asked. ¡°You and I are no longer together.¡±


    The question made Giselle pause. ¡°Are you serious about her, Max?¡± she asked in return, and then something urred to her. Something Vonda had said some time ago.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry too, Max. I can¡¯t go on with all this. I can¡¯t keep pretending when I¡­ I¡­ Everything between us feels so real, Max.¡±


    Giselle¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°You and Vonda aren¡¯t really together,¡± Giselle said. ¡°Vonda mentioned pretending. You¡­ you don¡¯t have a real rtionship.¡±


    Max immediately turned and looked directly at Giselle.


    ¡°Giselle, you need to know something,¡± Max said. ¡°Whether my rtionship with Vonda is fake or not, only we know the real feelings involved. What right do you have to judge how Vonda feels about me or how I feel about her? You don¡¯t know anything.¡±


    ¡°Max, you¡­¡± Giselle blinked, her eyes beginning to well up. Tears slowly began to fill her eyelids. ¡°You can¡¯t possibly love her, Max. I know that. All these years, even after my marriage, you¡¯ve been alone. You¡¯re not married, and-¡±


    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s all because I¡¯ve been waiting for you?¡± Max asked, cutting her off. ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    Terrifyingly, Max reflexivelyughed. As if he had just watched aedy show that tickled his funny bone.


    ¡°Hahaha! Oh my God, Giselle! Do you really think I didn¡¯t get married all this time because of you?¡±


    There was a mocking tone, a sense of amusement in Max¡¯s words, but he was deadly serious. Especially when he went on.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t been married all this time¡­¡±


    Max wiped his face. Something stirred in his chest, as if he had just realized something.


    ¡°Why am I only realizing this now? Hahaha!¡±


    As Max¡¯s hands dropped, his vision seemed blurred by the umtion of tears.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t been married¡­ that¡¯s because I¡¯ve been waiting for Vonda all this time.¡±


    Some people might say that Max could not move on from Giselle after their failed rtionship five years ago. They might conclude that Max could not get over Giselle, which is why he had not been with another woman and was still unmarried at his current age. But what might have really happened was this.


    ¡°Because even though I didn¡¯t know it¡­ I was subconsciously waiting for the right person toe into my life. Damn!¡±


    A single tear rolled down Max¡¯s cheek. At that moment, his memories rewound and he imagined the first time he met a girl he called a ¡°crazy virgin¡±. Fate seemed to be ying games, trapping them in the same room.


    That¡¯s how their days passed. Unconsciously, they were always together from day one. And now Max wondered when a single basil leaf would make himugh.


    Oh, of course. Only with Vonda could a single basil leaf be a reason tough. Something so small, and yet it turned out to be something so significant.


    ¡°And it¡¯s not you, Giselle. It¡¯s Vonda,¡± Max whispered with deep emotion.


    In that moment, Max seemed to realize something new. That maybe this was how fate worked. He felt heartbreak, then loneliness, and there was someone guiding time to bring them together.


    Max was not waiting for Giselle; he was waiting for the right person. She was¡­ someone Max had been waiting for. Even if Max did not know who this girl was.


    ¡°She¡¯s Vonda.¡±


    It was a reality Giselle found hard to ept. She was willing to swallow her pride and embarrassment to try to win Max back. But things weren¡¯t going as she had hoped.


    ¡°Max, please. Give me a chance. Just once. I¡¯ll prove that-¡±


    Max shook his head quickly. ¡°I¡¯m not like you, Git. I would never be stupid enough to leave someone who loves me for someone else who isn¡¯t worthy. I would never be stupid enough to let go of Vonda for you.¡±


    ¡°Max, I-¡±


    ¡°Enough, Git. Our rtionship really ended the day you left me.¡±


    Tears streamed down Giselle¡¯s cheeks. She seemed to realize that her hopes had faded. And Max solidified everything with his next words.


    ¡°You need to know something¡­¡±


    Max took a deep breath, knowing that what he was about to say was something he would promise for the rest of his life. As long as he had breath in him, Max would make this one promise.


    ¡°If it were me¡­ no matter how stupid I might be¡­ I would never waste Vonda for another woman or for¡­ anyone else. Including you.¡±


    *


    Perhaps no one expected that what was supposed to be a beautiful evening would end in chaos. In the midst of all the turmoil that night, Olivia was suddenly struck with dizziness, migraines, and anemia all at once.


    Who could me her? She was still on the phone, desperately trying to find her beloved sibling, while also trying tofort Riley. It was not until the door to the room where they were resting opened and Max appeared that Olivia could finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Mama.¡±


    Max immediately approached Riley, who seemed ready to unleash a string of curses at him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me Mama anymore, Max. I won¡¯t-¡±


    ¡°I have to go now, Ma.¡±


    Max¡¯s quick statement cut off Riley¡¯s words.


    ¡°Go?¡± Riley blinked. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°To meet your future daughter-inw,¡± Max said with a smile on his lips and in his eyes. ¡°So, don¡¯t get mad anymore, okay? You don¡¯t want to have a stroke and go to a wedding in a wheelchair, do you?¡±


    Tears immediately welled up in Riley¡¯s eyes. Her hand shot out and made a small flick to the side of Max¡¯s ear.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Riley struggled to find the words. So, she decided to hug her son instead.


    ¡°I love Vonda, Max.¡±


    In Riley¡¯s embrace, Max echoed a simr sentiment.


    ¡°It¡¯s the same for me, Mom,¡± Max whispered. ¡°I really love her.¡±


    *

 End and Beginning

    Max felt immensely grateful when the car he was driving was finally parked safely in front of Vonda¡¯s apartment building. Considering how he had driven earlier; he had briefly thought that he might end up in the hospital instead of Vonda¡¯s unit.


    But here Max was, right outside Vonda¡¯s apartment door. He rang the doorbell repeatedly as he spoke into the inte.


    ¡°Vonda, I know you¡¯re in there. Open the door, Von. We need to talk.¡±


    Max pushed the doorbell again. But there was still no sign of the door being opened by its owner.


    Damn it!


    Max growled and pressed the doorbell again.


    ¡°Open the door, Von. We need to talk.¡±


    Still the same. The door remained stubbornly closed. Max¡¯s patience began to wear thin, and for the umpteenth time he pressed the doorbell angrily. This time he spoke with the utmost seriousness and a hint of threat.


    ¡°I promise you, Von. I won¡¯t leave until you open this door. If you don¡¯t believe me, go ahead. I¡¯m deadly serious. If necessary, I¡¯ll make a scene here. Let security catch me and I¡¯ll tell them it¡¯s all because of you. So, if you don¡¯t want me to make a scene, I suggest that you¡­¡±


    Creak!


    Suddenly, the door in front of Max opened and his long speech stopped abruptly in mid-air.


    Vonda appeared. Her face was half-downcast, her eyes averting Max¡¯s gaze.


    Max¡¯s half-panic vanished. He breathed a sigh of relief, although a momentter he felt very anxious.


    Vonda¡¯s appearance was a mess. Her hair looked disheveled and she was still wearing the dress from earlier.


    Guilt weighed on Max. He would not be wrong to suspect that he was partly responsible for what had happened to Vonda that night.


    ¡°You finally opened the door.¡±


    Holding the door, Vonda nodded quietly. ¡°Yes. Instead of you making a scene, I might as well open the door. I don¡¯t want you making a mess. My life is chaotic enough as it is.¡±


    Whether Vonda meant it as a jab or not, the statement sounded like a dig in Max¡¯s ears. It only strengthened his resolve.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the mess tonight, Von. I-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Vonda interrupted Max, nodding her head repeatedly, though she still avoided looking into the man¡¯s eyes. ¡°It¡¯s called chaos for a reason. No one ns for chaos. So, it¡¯s nobody¡¯s fault. Besides¡­ my life is often a mess.¡±


    Max swallowed hard. ¡°Vonda, I-¡±


    ¡°Besides, if anything was wrong before, it was probably me. If I hadn¡¯t lost my temper like that, everything wouldn¡¯t have gone haywire.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, but-¡±


    ¡°But I was really stupid back then. Didn¡¯t think it through and ended up making things worse.¡±


    ¡°Nothing went wrong, Von. There was just-¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Just what? Do you and Giselle have any other problems?¡±


    Max blinked. He fell silent as Vonda¡¯s question reached his auditory senses.


    Vonda¡¯s face suddenly lifted, bringing her two eyeballs into line with Max¡¯s gaze. Those eyes appeared¡­ red. Max wouldn¡¯t be wrong in guessing that those eyes had already used up their supply of tears due to earlier events.


    ¡°Vonda.¡±


    Max¡¯s sigh made Vonda realize that she had unconsciously raised her face. Vonda tried to calm herself as she tried to read Max¡¯s thoughts from his gaze.


    This caused Vonda to unconsciously wipe her cheeks. There were no tears, just a cold sensation from the dried tears.


    Vonda took a deep breath and smiled.


    ¡°I ¡­ was really emotional, Max. It¡¯s just¡­ it didn¡¯t really mean anything. Just calm down. I-¡±


    This time it was Max who cut Vonda off. If he had let Vonda cut him off before, now it was the other way around.


    Max could not hold out any longer. Not because Vonda had mentioned Giselle¡¯s name. No, that was not it. But there was a fatal sentence that Vonda had just spoken.


    It was so fatal that it forced Max to speak up. Without warning, he immediately cupped both of Vonda¡¯s cheeks. It made her stare because in the next second Max had cut off her words with a peck on the lips.


    Vonda¡¯s hands immediately shot up. They grabbed Max¡¯s chest and squeezed his suit jacket. Her chest deted and she froze. She let Max kiss her so passionately.


    When Max pulled away, Vonda was silent. Max¡¯s face looked so upset.


    ¡°Is this the only way I can get you to shut up for a minute, Von?¡± Max asked hoarsely. ¡°Can you give me a chance to talk?¡±


    Vonda blinked twice. ¡°I-I can¡­¡±


    Max let out a breath, trying to be patient and keeping his hands on Vonda¡¯s cheeks.


    ¡°In that case, listen to what I have to say, okay?¡±


    Stiffly, Vonda answered Max¡¯s request with a nod of her head. But at least Max felt a little relieved.


    Max stared intensely into Vonda¡¯s eyes, trying to tell her everything.


    ¡°First,¡± Max said quietly. ¡°I hate to hear you say ¡®it didn¡¯t mean anything¡¯.¡± Max paused for a moment to catch his breath. ¡°Please, Von. How can you say ¡®it didn¡¯t mean anything¡¯ when you feel the opposite?¡±


    ¡°I-I-¡±


    ¡°Do you have any idea what it does to my self-esteem when you say ¡®it didn¡¯t mean anything,¡¯ especially after we¡¯ve had a night that we both know¡­ meant a lot?¡±


    Max took a deep breath, creating a momentary pause to calm his emotions.


    ¡°And now¡­ again? After saying something like that in front of everyone¡­ you say ¡®it didn¡¯t mean anything¡¯?¡±


    Vonda bit her lower lip, winced, but remained the same. She was trying to control her own upset.


    ¡°Max, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Second¡­ I also hate hearing you talk about me and Giselle. Don¡¯t you realize it¡¯s really inappropriate? Come on, Von. Don¡¯t you know that what I¡¯m hoping for right now is you and me?¡±


    Vonda blinked once. The movement caused two tears to roll from the corners of her eyes. Especially because in the next moment Max said something that Vonda had probably never expected. Words that sounded so full of emotion and seriousness.


    ¡°Because the third thing is¡­ I love you, Vonda.¡±


    It felt as if Vonda¡¯s legs suddenly went weak. Like she could not breathe. Like a thousand emotions were swirling around her, making her dizzy.


    ¡°You¡­ you don¡¯t¡­¡±


    But Max did not want to hear any form of doubt from the girl. So, before Vonda could voice her disbelief, Max pulled at Vonda¡¯s face again. Hended on her lips and kissed her again.


    Shock was the best word to describe Vonda¡¯s feelings when Max uttered that sacred word. She seemed suddenly confused by what she heard.


    Love?


    Vonda questioned the meaning of the word. But once again, Max silenced her lips before she could voice her question. She did not allow herself to utter a single word.


    Vonda questioned the meaning of the word. But Max silenced her lips again before she could finish her question. He did not allow her to utter a single word.


    However, Vonda was strangely not at all surprised by this one kiss. Instead, she weed it. Receiving the soulful touch with no less tenderness. She put her arms around Max¡¯s neck and returned it with all her heart.


    Max realized that Vonda¡¯s eptance would always leave him wanting more. So don¡¯t be surprised if one of Max¡¯s hands moves in the next second. It came down slowly and grabbed Vonda¡¯s waist. Pulling her body against his. Almost lifting Vonda¡¯s body. Even her feet almost floated above the ground. Vonda clung to him even tighter.


    Max stepped up. He quickly got them both into the unit and pushed the door shut with one foot. Amazingly, Max did all this without breaking their passionate kiss.


    ¡°I love you, Vonda.¡±


    That was the next thing Max said as their kiss broke. Just as he saw Vonda¡¯s eyes slowly open and their gazes meet.


    There were different emotions that Max found in those clear eyes. There was emotion, disbelief, hope, and everything that made Max feel like his throat was choked by a thousand feelings of happiness.


    Vonda held her breath for a moment. Her face seemed to harden as she tried to hold back the flood of emotions that had suddenly erupted in her chest. But she was too emotional to hold back her tears.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    With great difficulty, Vonda managed to whisper the boy¡¯s name.


    ¡°At one point with you, it really gave me hope. But I was afraid it wouldn¡¯t be reciprocated. In the end, it was the only option I had. I convinced myself that it all ¡®didn¡¯t mean anything.''¡±


    A very simple reason. Sometimes hope can backfire. Either an encouragement or the opposite. The fear that hope is just hope. In the end, it was better to choose to imagine nothing than to feel like you were being floated by empty hopes, and Max clearly knew that.


    ¡°I know, Von.¡± Max nodded. ¡°Sometimes I feel the same way.¡±


    Max¡¯s words were not just words offort. He did not mean to make light of Vonda¡¯s situation, but he really felt exactly what she was feeling.


    ¡°I also feel ustrophobic knowing that Giselle is still expecting you,¡± Vonda continued, shaking her head repeatedly. ¡°I don¡¯t like you being with her. I don¡¯t like it, Max.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God! I don¡¯t like it either, Von.¡±


    Vonda knew then that she could not hold on any longer. So she let her tears fall as hard as she could as she continued to say.


    ¡°Because what I like is Vonda and Max. Right?¡±


    Max smiled broadly. He chuckled once, but unconsciously his tears fell as well.


    ¡°Sounds like a good match, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Vonda nodded through her tears. She could barely see Max¡¯s face. ¡°This is ¡­..¡±


    But Vonda couldn¡¯t finish her sentence. She could only take a deep breath, wipe away her tears, and then look deeply into Max¡¯s eyes. She realized that this was the face that would apany her days now. A face she hoped would continue to be with her in the days toe. Vonda decided to say something else that she hadn¡¯t had a chance to say.


    ¡°I love you too, Max.¡±


    The answer left Max stunned. He didn¡¯t say anything because he was captivated by the sparkle in Vonda¡¯s eyes. In the end, all Max could offer was a smile, a form of happiness he could not put into words. A happiness that was fully felt by Vonda as well.


    *


    Finding someone who loves us as much as we love them is truly heartwarming. Equally heartwarming is the realization that they are still there when we open our eyes in the morning. That face. That smile. Even that morning greeting. It¡¯s undeniably heartwarming.


    ¡°Good morning.¡±


    For a moment, you might just be in awe. Realizing that there will always be those little things that make you love them. Just like Vonda, who was happy to hear Max¡¯s raspy voice that morning.


    Oops!


    Maybe that happiness was also because Max then pulled Vonda into his arms. So that Vonda could feel Max¡¯s gentle touch on her back. And that clearly made Vonda¡¯s happiness level skyrocket that morning. Well¡­ especially after the chaos of the night before.


    Speaking of chaos, the chaos of the failed party continued into another chaos. This one took ce in Vonda¡¯s room, and um¡­ it¡¯s pretty easy to guess what kind of chaos happened next.


    ¡°So, what do you think about getting married soon? In a month? In two months? Or maybe in three months?¡±


    Vonda put her sandwich on the te. She tilted her head, trying to keep the contents of her mouth from spitting out the urge tough.


    ¡°Why are youughing?¡± Max asked as he finished thest of his breakfast. ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my goodness, Max. Are you in such a hurry to get married?¡±


    Max quickly finished his ss of water before answering. ¡°Why not?¡± Max replied. ¡°Look, mentally and financially, I¡¯m in the marriage zone.¡±


    Oh! Mom would be so happy if she knew I was quoting her words.


    But Max made sure Riley didn¡¯t find out. He didn¡¯t want to feed his mother¡¯s pride any more.


    ¡°You feel the same way, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Vonda swallowed her bite. ¡°Ah! So, you¡¯re really ready to propose?¡±


    Max nodded decisively. ¡°Absolutely ready. I¡¯ll bring Mom and Dad over to your ce. To ask when your parents are ready to give their daughter to me.¡±


    Uh¡­


    ¡°So, what do you think?¡± Max asked again. ¡°Do you want to marry me?¡±


    To this question, Vonda nodded confidently and without shame. Although there was one thing that made herment.


    ¡°All my life I¡¯ve never imagined being proposed to like this. In the kitchen, during breakfast, before even taking a shower. You¡¯re not very romantic, Max.¡±


    Maxughed. ¡°Maybe I should have proposed in front of a bunch of people? Make a love confession in the middle of a crowd? Like that?¡±


    ¡°Not necessarily like that, but¡­¡±


    Vonda¡¯s words hung in the air. Something came to her mind when she heard Max¡¯s words.


    In front of many people. In the middle of a crowd.


    ¡°Oh, my God!¡±


    Vonda gasped. Suddenly, she covered her mouth with a look of shock on her face. Max panicked.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Max asked. ¡°What¡¯s happening, Von?¡±


    Allowing Max to grab her upper arms, Vonda looked at him in horror. ¡°Speaking of being in front of a lot of people and in the middle of a crowd¡­ I suddenly remembered what happenedst night, Max.¡±


    ¡°Last night?¡± Max was confused. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes widened in genuine horror. It was then she realized.


    ¡°Last night¡­ it wasn¡¯t like I was the one making a love confession to you, was it?¡±


    One second. Two seconds. Three seconds.


    Laughter erupted. Max burst outughing, while Vonda suddenly turned grumpy. Oh, of course, Vonda could guess how adept Oceananizens were at spreading videos until they became viral content. Vonda yelled.


    ¡°Max! Let¡¯s get married next week!¡±


    At that moment, Max¡¯sughter grew louder. He was almost unable to speak.


    ¡°Forget it! Because someone didn¡¯t want to get married fast!¡±


    ¡°Max!¡± Vonda shouted as she tried to grab Max¡¯s hand.


    But Max skillfully dodged her and ran away from the kitchen ind, with Vonda chasing after him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to! I want to save money for a big wedding.¡±


    ¡°Enough! Just sell the Lamborghini!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Really? Aren¡¯t you attached to it?¡±


    ¡°Max, are you serious?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Earlier, it seemed like someone didn¡¯t want to get married fast.¡±


    ¡°Now I want to get married fast, Max.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Anxious to get married.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±


    ¡°Afraid the video will go viral?¡± Max asked,ing to a stop across the living room.


    Vonda, who managed to catch up to Max five secondster, stopped running as well. Trying to control her heavy breathing, Vonda shook her head.


    ¡°No.¡±


    Crouching down, Max asked yfully, ¡°Then¡­ why do you want to marry me so fast?¡±


    ¡°Because¡­¡± Vonda¡¯s lips moved slowly to form a smile as she continued, ¡°I don¡¯t want what happenedst night to happen again. Let people know that you belong to me. If we get married¡­ there shouldn¡¯t be any other girls hoping to have you, right?¡±


    Max smiled. The amused look disappeared in an instant, reced by a look full of love.


    ¡°If that¡¯s your answer¡­ so, be it,¡± Max said as he took a step closer to Vonda. ¡°Next week? Who¡¯s afraid?¡±


    Vonda let her body sink into Max¡¯s embrace. Feeling warmth and peace. Feelings that Max also felt.


    Feelings they both secretly prayed would always be there to color their hopes for the future. In the form of the household they longed for.


    A happy household. A household that, although tears would surely be shed, they would choose to stay together. Until those tears were reced byughter, because that¡¯s how love works.


    *

 Love Is Always the Same

    ¡°Mom, I¡¯ll be back. Mom and Dad, get ready, okay? We¡¯re going to Vonda¡¯s house.¡±


    ¡°Huh?! To Vonda¡¯s house? For what?¡±


    ¡°A family meeting. I¡¯m getting married next Sunday.¡±


    ¡°What?! Getting married next Sunday? Did you get Vonda pregnant?!¡±


    Max had already suspected that this was what had happened when he decided to contact Riley that afternoon, just as he arrived at his apartment. He opened the closet door and searched for the clothes he would wear.


    ¡°Please, Mom. Get an obstetrician,¡± Max grumbled. ¡°I don¡¯t want to marry Vonda because she¡¯s pregnant.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Riley teased from across the room. ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s not because Vonda¡¯s pregnant?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­ if not, why are you in such a hurry to marry Vonda?¡±


    Max sighed deeply, then answered Riley¡¯s question like this.


    ¡°I want to marry Vonda because it¡¯s the right choice for me.¡±


    Little did Max know that across the hall, Riley was clutching Edmund¡¯s hand as tightly as she could, trying to contain her outburst of happiness. For a few seconds, all Riley could do was take deep breaths. Tears welled up in her eyes. And when she had calmed down a bit, she finally said.


    ¡°Let¡¯s propose to my future daughter-inw, Max.¡±


    Not much else happened in Vonda¡¯s unit as she finished getting ready. As she left her apartment, Vonda also called Heidi.


    ¡°Mom, please clean up the house, okay?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Clean up the house? Why? Is the President of Oceanaing to our house?¡±


    ¡°Oh dear! No, Mom. Max¡¯s family ising to our house.¡±


    ¡°Max¡¯s family? For what?¡±


    ¡°A family meeting. We¡¯re getting married next Sunday.¡±


    ¡°What?! So soon? Vo-Von, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re pregnant.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes rolled for a moment. She took the car keys from her pocket and said.


    ¡°I¡¯m not pregnant, Mom. We don¡¯t need a sudden emergency like that to get married.¡±


    ¡°Really? Before, I didn¡¯t think you wanted to get married at all. Ck! Turns out¡­¡±


    A smile appeared on Vonda¡¯s face as she continued Heidi¡¯s words. ¡°Turns out marrying Max is the hope I always wanted, Mom.¡±


    And so, the excitement continued. Where there was a sudden meeting of two families. Especially since the first meeting was about marriage. The excitement that followed was no joke.


    Fortunately for Vonda and Max, despite the suddenness of it all, everything went as nned. The wedding took ce a weekter. They invited only close rtives and neighbors, but that did not diminish the value of the vows they made together.


    In the end, they officially became husband and wife. They promised each other to be together through everyugh and tear that came their way. Through happiness and sorrow, they would always be together.


    *


    People always say that everything changes with time. But in reality, some things will never change, no matter how much time has passed. For some things, it might still be possible for them to be the same as before. One of those things was the greeting Vonda received that afternoon when she left her room and met some of her departmental colleagues.


    ¡°Good afternoon, boss.¡±


    Vonda smiled at the new title. It felt a little strange, but that did not mean she didn¡¯t like it. After Max had left Greatech, Vonda, who had be the next department head, had never expected to hold the position for the next five years.


    ¡°Good afternoon,¡± Vonda replied, then her eyes fell on an employee standing behind another. ¡°Andrew, your report needs to bepleted promptly. I need it on my desk by the end of the day.¡±


    Andrew¡¯s face looked annoyed as he nodded. ¡°Alright, Ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Okay. I don¡¯t want to have to work overtime this weekend because of your messy work. I have vacation ns with my husband and child,¡± Vonda said again, then walked away.


    The other was like a conversation that happened in the office cafeteria over lunch.


    ¡°You know? Evan has been silent for two days, Von. My goodness! Maybe if I slip and fall in the bathroom, he¡¯ll finally talk to me.¡±


    Vonda furrowed her brow. ¡°Because of the Ocemarket cashier?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Sarah said. ¡°Besides, it¡¯s normal for cashiers to smile at customers and call them ¡®Miss,¡¯ right? But Evan said that.¡± Sarah took a deep breath before continuing. ¡°Oh. Look at her charming other guys. I know you¡¯re beautiful, Sarah. But I¡¯m your husband. Don¡¯t be charming in front of me. Spare my feelings.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! I don¡¯t think I¡¯m beautiful.¡±


    Sarah nodded. ¡°True, right? I¡¯m not beautiful at all. But maybe in Evan¡¯s eyes I¡¯m prettier than Taylor Swift or Angelina Jolie? When I bumped into the parking attendant who happened to get dust in his eyes, Evan thought I was being hit on by the parking attendant. Oh God, Von, imagine that. No other guy would be interested in me anymore.¡±


    Vondaughed some more.


    ¡°You canugh because Max isn¡¯t like that, right?¡±


    Vonda¡¯s eyes rolled. ¡°After I confessed my love in front of so many people like that? Seriously, Sarah. Max never had any doubts. Especially after he saw me struggle to give birth to Elvie, who weighed almost five kilos. I¡¯d shake him up and down if he ever doubted me.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± Sarah sighed deeply. ¡°Even though Evan annoys me a lot, I still think it¡¯s a form of love, you know? He just doesn¡¯t want to lose me.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Well, something like that.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of Max,¡± Sarah continued, putting her spoon down on her empty te. ¡°He¡¯sing back today, right?¡±


    Vonda nodded. ¡°He¡¯snding around half past midnight, I think? And since Max ising back tonight after the car parts expedition, Mom came to our unit this morning. She wants to take Elvie on vacation.¡±


    ¡°Oh! I see. She must want you to give Elvie a sibling soon, right?¡±


    Vonda rolled her eyes at Sarah. ¡°Hahaha! Is there any other reason?¡±


    *


    The nended as Max¡¯s watch showed half past midnight. It took about half an hour for Max to get through immigration, get his suitcase, and get off the ne.


    Speaking of things that might not change no matter how much time passed, Max realized that this also applied to his body¡¯s sensor. The one that could still pick up Vonda¡¯s presence.


    After all, five years wasn¡¯t a long time to erode Max¡¯s ability, was it? And in ten years, Max was confident that his ability would still be there. The same was true for twenty years from now, or decades from now.


    Max was sure that he would always be able to find Vonda. Because Max was also sure of one thing. Vonda would always find him. Just like what was happening now.


    A few feet away, Vonda stood. Crossed her arms. Smiled at him, and¡­ Max was struck by Vonda¡¯s beauty.


    Was it the effect of not seeing her for a week, or the ck dress she was wearing? Hmm¡­ or maybe it was the pair ofce-up shoes Max had picked out for her five years ago.


    Really! Max liked the way Vonda¡¯s feet looked in those shoes. It looked very¡­ alluring.


    ¡°Max.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s voice softly called Max¡¯s name as she hugged him. Max immediately let go of his suitcase and returned the hug, nting a kiss on the top of her head. Vonda pulled away slightly and looked up. The longing was so clear in her eyes.


    ¡°Do you want to eat first or shall we go straight home?¡±


    Max¡¯s hand continued to run down Vonda¡¯s back. He stared intently at her face, trying to ease the longing that had built up, if only a little.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go straight home. I¡¯m not really hungry.¡±


    Half an hourter, Max¡¯s car glided out of airport, gliding smoothly over the asphalt.


    ¡°I missed you, Max.¡±


    Vonda broke the silence that hadsted only a few minutes. She looked into Max¡¯s face and let out a small sigh. In the next moment, she reached out and gently patted Max¡¯s thigh.


    ¡°Do you miss me?¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes darted quickly from Vonda¡¯s hand on his thigh to her eyes.


    ¡°Von, I¡¯m driving. Of course, I miss you. But don¡¯t y with your hand, okay? No need to raise it, right? Just keep it on my thigh.¡±


    Vonda pouted and shifted her body. She deliberately pulled one leg up so that the knee-length dress she was wearing was slightly exposed. Showing the smooth skin of her thighs inside. Max swallowed.


    ¡°This morning Mom brought Elvie. Then ¡­.¡±


    Max¡¯s eyes tried to catch Vonda¡¯s. Instead of giving in to the urge to look at her exposed thighs or the hand that seemed to be slowly creeping down there.


    ¡°So?¡±


    Vonda adjusted the strap across her chest a little so she could get close to Max¡¯s ear and whisper.


    ¡°Mama said we should get a sibling for Elvie.¡±


    Oh my!Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Max turned his head. His eyes were bulging with anticipation. ¡°We¡¯re still on the road and you¡¯re tantly flirting with me, Von?¡±


    ¡°Um.¡±


    Vonda¡¯s hand, which had been on Max¡¯s thigh, moved. It stroked Max¡¯s chest. Her eyes nced quickly at the highway they were driving on.


    ¡°I like the name Octamus.¡±


    Max turned his head, a frown on his forehead. ¡°Octamus?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Vonda nodded and gave him a teasing look. ¡°It¡¯s from the 8 Muscovy Heights.¡±


    ¡°Oh my!¡±


    Max did not want tough, but he did. After all, how could he notugh when Vonda said something that made him think of something.


    ¡°Vonda, I think it¡¯s enough that Elvie was born with the name Elmwood View Court,¡± Max said with a grin. ¡°Octamus is not cool at all.¡±


    Vonda joined in theughter, but she clearly had no intention of backing down. Instead, she whispered again. She deliberately lowered her voice with a seductive cadence. She also deliberately exhaled a warm breath that caressed her husband¡¯s earlobes.


    ¡°Cool or not, I¡¯m being honest.¡± Vonda¡¯s eyes blinked once as she brought a smile to her face. ¡°I really miss you, dear husband.¡±


    Wait!


    The car stopped. Right on the side of the road, which looked deserted, although there were obviously still one or two vehicles passing by. Max turned around and unbuckled his seatbelt after making sure the car would not suddenly jump for the next few minutes.


    Vonda was shocked andughed. But she doesn¡¯t resist when Max grabs her neck and nts a kiss on it. Vonda immediately unbuckles her seat belt.


    Even further. Vonda surrenders and moves willingly as Max leads her to sit on hisp.


    ¡°Even though Octamus is basically not cool at all, but¡­ we can still think of alternatives. Besides, we¡¯re not in 8 Muscovy Heights anymore.¡±


    Vondaughed. I don¡¯t know if it was Max¡¯s whisper or the brush of the guy¡¯s lips against the nape of her neck. What is certain is that theughter quickly faded. It was reced by a sigh as Max¡¯s hand slid under Vonda¡¯s dress.


    Inside¡­ slowly. Strokes that made Vonda shiver, but also made her want more. Even more so when she felt the urgency of Max¡¯s manhood down there that she could not resist.


    Within two minutes, they were moving in harmony. After lifting up her dress and putting away her panties, Vonda came down to greet Max¡¯s manhood freed from the confines of his pants¡¯ zipper. They embrace and Vonda¡¯s sighs mingle with Max¡¯s growls.


    As if it were their first romance, they were equally excited. There was Max, who couldn¡¯t resist moving as he caressed Vonda¡¯s breasts. He could feel the softness and firmness of them with his mouth and hands.


    Just as Vonda could not resist squeezing Max¡¯s hair and pulling him to deepen the caress. To feel Max¡¯s touch on her skin is what she craves most.


    As a result, Vonda and Max realized for the umpteenth time that there were some things that would never change, no matter how much time passed. One of them was the pleasure of making love in the car.


    After all, they were not disturbing public order, since they always did it when the streets were quiet. So, it¡¯s okay, right?


    Moreover, it must be recognized that every couple must have its own pleasures. Especially when ites to the precious memories that brought them together in the first ce.


    The thing that is the beginning of the love that grows. So yeah¡­ just understand if some of you find the children¡¯s names inspired by street names. Who knows, their parents had as much fun as this crazy couple.


    Right?


    *End*


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!