Chapter 47
Observing Naomi’s retreating figure, Brendan’s countenance gradually darkened.
He was keenly aware that this wasn’t the Naomi he was familiar with and that something was weighing on her mind. An underlying tension lingered beneath her smiles and warmth.
When Naomi returned from the guest room, Brendan was already lounging on the bed after his shower. Pulling out a chair by the desk, Naomi remarked, “I still have some case files to review. You should rest first.”
Setting aside the book he held, Brendan scrutinized her and inquired, “So, you’re not in the mood to do it today?”
Despite six hours passing by since the afternoon, Naomi hadn’t engaged in her usual banter. Normally, she would weave in playful remarks and tease him whenever she could.
Anticipating Naomi’s usual lines, Brendan found himself surprised as she disclosed her need to review some case files.
Naomi smirked and responded, “Who dwells on such matters daily? We have more pressing issues to address.”
Engrossed in the case files she held, she paid minimal attention to Brendan.
Without uttering a word, Brendan left the bed and approached her. Gently pinching her face, he directed
her gaze toward him. “Naomi, something’s on your mind.”
Having known her for 23 years, Brendan effortlessly interpreted Naomi’s emotional state,
Naomi seized Brendan’s wrist and chucked, “I’m cutting you some slack today. But you’re missing my usual teasing, aren’t you?” she playfully continued, “Ladies have their days off too, you know…”
Before Naomi could finish her sentence, Brendan held her face and lifted her off the chair.
Naomi was caught off guard by his action. After she regained her balance, she teased, “It seems like you’re really in the mood for that and plan to force it?”
Brendan countered, “Naomi, stop being cryptic.”
Amused by his statement, Naomi snorted. Just because she hadn’t said much today, she had been accused of being cryptic.
Meeting Brendan’s determined gaze, Naomi hissed, “Do I need to plead for your cooperation?”
Brendan’s expression darkened, and he pinched her face once more.
She pushed his hand away and blurted, “I saw you when I was out discussing work matters this morning.
With that brief statement, she avoided delving into specifics.
Brendan swiftly understood what she meant. He knew she had seen him with Chloe and Caleb.
Chapter 47
He relaxed his grip, and his earlier aggression dissipated. He explained, “I owe her a favor. I mentioned
that before.”
Naomi retorted, “That’s your business, Brendan. But I have the right to be upset and the right not to feign a
smile too.”
Dissatisfied with her response, Brendan asserted, “Naomi, you’re being unreasonable.”
Naomi was infuriated and forced a laugh. “Brendan, why do you think that I will still fawn over you after
anything?” seeing you with another lady? Do I owe
She hadn’t intended to argue or bring up the matter. She simply wished to avoid the discussion, yet Brendan had persisted.
At this point, it seemed like it was her obligation to indulge and tease him.
However, Brendan coldly remarked, “Naomi, were you just playing with me all this while?”