Chapter 23

Chapter 23 Best Gift “I didn’t buy these. Can you return them for me?” Cora was not comfortable with receiving free gifts, not to mention how expensive these shoes were.

The shopping assistant appeared embarrassed as she replied, “Miss Lane, some of these limited editions were sourced from nearby stores, and it took us considerable effort to gather them. If you don’t wish to keep them, could you please consult with Mr. Pope first?”

Cora could sympathize with the shopping assistant and didn’t want to make things difficult for her. Reluctantly, she signed for the shoes and sent Byron a photo of them.

[Mr. Hansen, are these part of my service fee for that night?]

To Cora’s surprise, Byron immediately started a video call after the message was sent.

Cora hesitated for a moment, but eventually decided to pick it up.

Byron’s face showed up clearly on the screen, a sight she never tired of. The lighting was dim, and he held a glass of wine, likely at a social gathering.

Byron’s expression seemed more relaxed than usual, maybe under the effect of the wine.

His cold and sharp features softened slightly, giving him a somewhat lazy allure.

Cora avoided her gaze as memories of their intimate moments flooded her mind.

“I don’t care what you think about the shoes, but I’ve already gifted them, they’re yours,” Byron said, his tone carrying an underlying authority that compelled obedience.

Cora attempted to interject, but Byron swiftly added, “I’m not yet free tonight. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Enter title...

Cora felt perplexed as she raised her gaze, only to be met with a smile in Byron’s eyes.

She wanted to ask him why he had been seeking her out and gifting her those shoes.

Was it because he wanted to sleep with her again? Or was it because...?

Indeed, Byron had been supportive and generous, arousing a faint expectancy within Cora’s otherwise desolate heart.

Yet, before she could voice her doubts, Byron ended the video call, leaving her yearning for answers.

The anticipation surrounding Byron’s intentions quickly dissipated upon their encounter at the engagement party the following day.

Cora rushed from the hospital, hastily applying lipstick and eyeliner as Sally pulled her along.

“I’m her plus one.” At the banquet hall entrance, Sally showed the receptionist the gift bag she had prepared.

“Thank you. Please sign here and leave the gift here,” the receptionist instructed.

With the formalities taken care of, Sally and Cora entered the venue.

“You bought them a gift?” Cora whispered, totally surprised.

“Oh yeah, something special.”

“What?”

Sally grinned mischievously, “A pair of customized voodoo dolls. I hope they have a miserable life and never harm you again.”

Cora was speechless, felt both grateful and shocked. But she did find solace in Sally’s unique way of handling this situation.

Suddenly, Sally tugged at her arm and whispered, “Look, Mr. Pope! Go say hi.”

Cora’s heart ski ped a beat. Not because of Carter himself, but because she knew Byron would be there with him.

Following Sally’s gaze, Cora’s eyes landed on Byron, standing next to Carter