Chapter 490
Chapter 490:
The words meet somewhere else reminded Lyman that Kailey wasn’t free to do as she pleased. Warning edged his voice. “Don’t repeat this.” Then he turned and walked upstairs.
Relief rushed out of Jessica the moment he vanished from sight, and she stuck out her tongue. “He’s terrifying, but he’s also ridiculously handsome p>
Kailey chuckled. “After we eat, give him the gift you brought. He sounds harsh, but he isn’t cruel. He won’t hold this against you p>
Hope flared bright in Jessica’s eyes. “You’re serious p>
“I am p>
A short while later, the housekeeper announced that lunch was ready, and footsteps on the stairs signaled Lyman’s return. The chatter died the instant Jessica noticed him. Her back snapped straight.
Awkwardness pressed on Kailey, and she took a long drink of water just to fill the silence. Tension followed them through the meal until it finally ended.
Lyman rose as if he intended to leave without another word. Panic flickered across Jessica’s face, and she hurried after him. “Mr. Vasquez p>
Annoyance creased his brow when he stopped and looked down at her. “What is it p>
Smiling to herself, Jessica dashed to the couch, opened her bag, and drew out an elegant jewelry box. “While I was out shopping, I found these cufflinks and thought they would suit you. See if they appeal to you.” Shyness softened her voice, and her outstretched hand hovered in the light as though it glowed.
𝘑𝘰𝘪𝘯 o𝘶𝗋 𝗰o𝗺muո𝗶t𝘆 𝘰𝗻.с𝗈𝗺
Rejection stayed carved into Lyman’s expression. His hands never moved toward the gift. Cold scrutiny pinned her in place. “Do you really have nothing better to do p>
“What?” Confusion clouded Jessica’s eyes.
“If you have this much spare time, find a job. Stop wasting it on things that irritate me p>
The words left his mouth, and Lyman strode off without sparing Jessica’s pale face a glance.
Regret settled in Kailey as she watched the color drain from Jessica’s face. She shook her head at Lyman’s complete lack of grace. She had only intended to annoy him — she hadn’t meant to embarrass Jessica in the process.
She crossed the room and called out softly to her.
Hurt shimmered in Jessica’s eyes when she looked up. “Am I really that unbearable p>
“No.” Certainty steadied Kailey’s voice. “You’re not the problem. Lyman is. There’s a reason he’s still alone at his age. His temper is awful, and his mouth is worse p>
Silence settled over Jessica for a moment. Just as Kailey searched for something comforting to add, Jessica spoke again. “So I still have a chance? Other women can’t even get near him, but I’ve already been inside his house p>
Words deserted Kailey for a heartbeat. Blind devotion always carried a tragic edge, and seeing it wrapped in someone so beautiful felt both sad and exasperating. The guilt she had felt moments ago faded quickly — she realized now it had been entirely unnecessary.
That afternoon, Jessica stayed and chatted with Kailey. Their conversation never strayed far from how to win Lyman’s heart. Jessica’s focus was so intense that her planning began to sound like a formal project.