Chapter 699: Chapter 699

Chapter 699:

Reclining into his embrace, Harlee’s expression softened, her tone filled with a quiet resolve.

“Not particularly.

As long as I can count on your forces when needed.”

With a tilt of her head, she decided to conserve her strategic acumen, focusing instead on covertly amplifying the severity of her brothers’ challenges for Rhys. Rhys scrutinized Harlee, cradled in his arms, his lips curving into a gentle smile.

“Harlee, there’s a glint in your eye that tells me you’re up to some sort of trouble.”

With an air of feigned innocence, Harlee blinked up at him. Rhys tousled her hair playfully and let out a chuckle.

“Well, whatever scheme you’re cooking up, I’m ready for it.”

Harlee found herself at a loss for words once more. Seriously? Why did she suddenly seem like the villain out of nowhere? Here was this man, a figure daunting enough to unsettle the leaders of Uwhor, Claelia, and Gruinia, putting on the act of a woeful child unjustly accused. What a sly man! His act of innocence was becoming alarmingly convincing.

With a tender gesture, Harlee patted his chin as one might soothe a mischievous puppy.

“Don’t talk like that. Your protection is still essential to me.”

“Of course, I’ll protect you,” Rhys replied, a spark of amusement dancing in his gaze.

“But really, does the famous Quick Cameo need any protection?”

“What are you implying?” Harlee’s voice carried a mix of challenge and curiosity.

Rhys gently lifted her chin and pressed his lips to hers in a deep, lingering kiss. When he finally pulled away, his grin was wide and cheeky.

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“Just collecting a protection fee.”

Harlee froze and then delivered a playful jab to his chest. With an exaggerated gesture, Rhys clutched his chest. Immediately, Harlee’s concern spiked. She sat up and took his hand.

“Are you alright? Did I hit where it hurts? Do you need…?”

“A kiss from you would do,” Rhys cut in, his eyes shutting in anticipation of her kiss.

However, the warmth in his arms vanished. Upon opening his eyes, he saw Harlee standing by the door.

“Harlee…” Rhys sprang to his feet and dashed after her, disregarding his bare feet.

“Rhys, joking about health isn’t funny to me!” Harlee’s tone was frosty, her eyes shimmering with tears threatening to spill. This was the first time Harlee had shown Rhys intense anger since they had opened their hearts to each other.

Rhys’ heart pounded with panic as he clutched Harlee’s hand, his eyes wide with regret.

“I’m sorry, Harlee. I made a mistake.

Don’t be angry, okay?”

Harlee held her ground, her face unshakably resolute. Moments before, remorse had overwhelmed her, thinking she had caused him pain, to the point of tears.

But upon discovering his deceit was all a playful ruse, her anger flared.

Health, in her eyes, was no subject for jest.

“No, Rhys,” Harlee said sharply, her voice icy.

“I’m truly upset, and I don’t wish to speak to you right now!” With a firm push, she distanced herself from him.

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