Chapter 1655:
As the realization dawned on her, Celine collapsed to the floor, her vision fading to black as she passed out.
The next day, in the seaside villa, Rhys was preparing breakfast in the kitchen. He looked over to see Harlee, bleary-eyed and lounging on the sofa with her legs crossed.
He raised an eyebrow, a subtle smile forming on his lips. Then, he carried the noodles to the dining table, acting as if everything were normal.
âThe noodles are ready. Iâve even added some chopped chili peppers, air-freighted in. Come and eat while itâs hot.â
Harlee lazily opened one eye, peering out from the sofa at Rhys, who was smiling. She groaned before flopping back down, her expression blank. Her voice was soft but reached Rhysâ ears.
Reflecting on the previous nightâs events, Rhys paused, pinched the bridge of his nose, then picked up the bowl and walked over to her. Leaning down, he spoke with a hint of remorse.
âLee, because of Elva, Iâve been sleeping alone for days, so I lost control last night. It wonât happen again. Please donât ignore me. From now on, Iâll stop whenever you tell me to. OK?â
Harlee gave him a dismissive glance. Over the past three years, heâd said plenty in moments of intimacy, and she was no longer moved by his words. They didnât work.
Undeterred, Rhys moved the bowl of noodles closer, trying to tempt her with the food. He adjusted his tone, making a firm promise.
âLee, I guarantee it wonât happen again!â
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Harlee continued texting Elva, not bothering to respond to Rhys. Elva didnât have classes today, and they had plans to go out.
Once they finalized the time, Harlee got up, intending to pick up Elva, and finally spared Rhys a glance.
âNot in the mood to eat. Rhys, be prepared tonight!â Harleeâs skin bore the evidence of last nightâs excessâhickeys hidden under her clothes.
Rhys had returned from a meeting with Patrick and Karl the previous night overly affectionate. He not only woke her from her sleep but also became quite handsy.
Harlee was puzzled by his newfound boldness and resolved to teach him a lesson he wouldnât soon forget.
Rhys attempted to follow her, wanting to explain further, but Harlee shut the car door and sped off, leaving behind a cloud of exhaust and a smiling Rhys. He admitted to himself that he might have been a bit excessive last night. But⦠he had enjoyed it, and quite frankly, he was looking forward to maybe going overboard a few more times.
Harlee found herself waiting outside the womenâs dorm of Uwhor University due to Elva experiencing a sudden bout of stomach discomfort before they could leave.
âHarlee.â
The sound of a familiar voice caught her attention from behind. Harleeâs expression tightened slightly. As she turned, Celine swiftly closed the distance between them.
Taking a half-step back, Harlee raised her eyelids slightly to regard Celine. Her expression was composed, her beautifully austere face showing little emotion, her eyes piercingly cold.
Celine met Harleeâs intense gaze, and the admonishments of her father and brother from the previous night echoed in her mind, sending a shiver down her spine. She was truly frightened.
After collapsing the night before, Celine had been ignored, left to lie on the living room floor until morning, with even the household staff treating her indifferently.
Accustomed to a life of luxury, Celine found the stark fall from grace unbearable. Despite her reluctance, she realized she needed to swallow her pride and seek Harleeâs forgiveness. If the Cavendish family disowned her, she would lose everything. At this moment, her status and wealth outweighed her pride. Moreover, her father had assured her that if she could secure Harleeâs forgiveness, she would remain cherished within the family.
Now standing before Harlee, Celine discarded her usual arrogance. She lowered her head, her complexion pale, her voice humble.
.
.
.