Chapter 195 “Know you’re busy with the shoot; I’ll keep it down.” “That still doesn’t cut it!” Samuel felt strange by her repeated refusals, “Xan, why do you seem so tense? It’s like you’re scared of something. Got a secret lover hidden in the house?” Xanthea stumbled for a moment, and then laughed off his comment, “Samuel, are you joking? That’s not funny at all. By the way, what sort of fun gifts did you get today?” She deliberately changed the subject, successfully diverting Samuel’s attention, “Apart from Simon’s golf club, everything else was pretty mundane. Oh, but there was this weird gift, a music box with a little girl. dancing ballet inside. It even had a note attached to it, don’t know who sent that. I mean, come on, I’m not a woman; what do I want with that?” “A ballet–dancing girl? Maybe it’s from some high–society lady secretly in love with you. You’re totally missing the romantic gesture. Was there no name on the note?” “Nope.” Samuel pulled out the note as he spoke, “Here it is, just says ‘Happy Birthday. I was wondering who it could be from.” Xanthea took the note and inspected it. Nothing unusual caught her eye, except… “Samuel, don’t you think the handwriting looks a bit like mine?” Now that she mentioned it, Samuel could see the resemblance. It wasn’t a natural similarity, but more of a deliberate imitation. “Who would go to such lengths?” Xanthea shook her head, “No idea. If it’s not a coincidence, then someone doesn’t want you to know who she is.” The next day, Samuel drove Xanthea to the on the northern outskirts. As soon as they arrived, they were met with a commotion. “What’s going on?” She walked in just as Benjamin, dressed for his scene, came out of the dressing room, “Xan, it’s chaotic here; how about come sit in my dressing room for a bit?” “What happened?” “Your next scene was supposed to be shot at Equestrian Meadows Stables, and the crew had coordinated. with them in advance. But due to some oversight by the stable staff, two crews got double–booked. The other crew got there first, and when the staff came to negotiate, Director Smith wouldn’t back down, and it turned into a big argument. Doesn’t look like it’ll be resolved anytime soon.” As he finished, they heard Kevin shouting angrily at his assistant, “Kick them out!” Xanthea said, “Looks like it really blew up.” Kevin was dussing out furiously, and as he saw Xanthea, he approached her, helpless, “Xan, your scene might not happen today. Equestrian Meadows Stables broke the agreement last minute, and Crestwood 1/2 12:17 Chapter 195 doesn’t have another venue that large. We might need to switch to a different scene, but you probably weren’t prepped for that, were you? It’s my fault; I stressed how important this scene was and told focus solely on these lines.” you to “I do know of a private ranch in Crestwood that’s even larger than Equestrian Meadows Stables, but I’m not sure if the owner would lend it to us.” Samuel interrupted, and upon hearing it, Kevin eagerly inquired, “Really? There’s a private ranch larger than Equestrian Meadows Stables?” “Gallop Glade Ranch – a high–end racecourse near Horizon Ventures Ltd., it’s Crestwood’s largest private ranch, spanning a hundred thousand square feet, complete with entertainment and racing facilities. The owner is Orion.”
Category: My Beloved Has Risen from Death’s Embrace (Xanthe and Mr. Lockwood )
My Beloved Has Risen from Death’s Embrace Novel
After Xanthea died, she witnessed the cold and ruthless president, Orion Lockwood, had actually killed the couple who harmed her. He knelt before her grave with bloodied hands, kissing her body, saying, “Xan, it’s too cold underground, I’m here to accompany you.”Reborn into her youth, Xanthea tormented the shameless bastard, Matthew and the despicable woman, Miranda, while also curiously investigating Orion, as they were completely unfamiliar before. Unexpectedly, as soon as they became familiar with each other, she was cornered by the man. “Xan, you know full well that I love you deeply, yet you dare to provoke me! In that case, never think of leaving me.”
Chapter 194 “Xan.” Matthew reached out to grab her arm, but she dodged, frowning. “Matt, why did you drink so much? I’m calling Keith to pick you up.” “No need, my c–car is just outside.” As Matthew saw her instinctively avoid him, a hint of hurt flashed across his eyes. Sometimes, he wondered if Xanthea really loved him, or if it was just dependence formed from years of being together. “When people truly loved someone, their body and mind naturally want to be close to their partner. How could she resist him so much? Not to mention being intimate, she hadn’t even let him hold her hand over all these years. “I’ve just missed you lately, really, wanted to talk to you alone for a bit.” “Let’s talk when you’re sober.” “Xan!” Xanthea tried to walk past him, but he called out loudly, stopping her, “Our 15th anniversary is coming up soon. How about we go on a date? I have a surprise for you.” Xanthea inhaled impatiently and turned back with a forced smile, “Sure, that sounds great. But I’ve been really busy shooting ‘Realm of Illusions‘. The schedule is tight, I might not have the time.” “Can’t you spare just one day? Xan, you don’t have to work this hard, I can support you financially” “Didn’t you say you’d support my choices and career?” Xanthea cut him off, a cold laughter in her eyes, “What, having second thoughts already?” “No, I just wanna spend more time with you.” “Don’t worry; once we’re engaged, I’ll stop working and be with you every day.” *Really?” Matthew looked at her excitedly, and Xanthea nodded with a smile, “Of course.” But that day would never come. “Xan!” As soon as Xanthea entered the hall, she was engulfed in a suffocating hug from her brother. “Ugh, I can barely breathe, Samuel!” Samuel let her go, his face beaming with joy, “I knew you loved me the most! Can you believe I got Simon’s genuine work I’ve dreamed about for my 22nd birthday?” Xanthea was puzzled, gazing at him, “The golf club was a gift from Orion; what does that have to do with me?” *If you hadn’t helped him, he wouldn’t have reciprocated. Did he ask you what you wanted in return? You musie asked for the golf club for me, right? How else would he know my favorite sport is golf and that 1/2 Chapter 194 Simon is my idol?” Right, how did he know? “It must be a coincidence.” “Stop pretending, I know you told him. Don’t worry; I just asked Ethan, and he said he’s not jealous. He just expects an even more expensive gift next time.” “What?!” “Haha.” Samuel wrapped his arm around her neck, “Xan, I’ve been so busy with work lately, I’ve been neglecting you. But seeing how much you care about me, I’ve decided to move into your place in the western areas of Crestwood to take care of you for a while.” Xanthea’s eyes widened in alarm at those words; she immediately raised her hand in refusal, “No need, Samuel, you do your thing. I manage just fine on my own.” ‘Wouldn’t it be better with me around?” “No, it wouldn’t! Especially since I spend all day on set, and only go back to Sunset Hills Estates to sleep. You’d just disturb my rest.”
Chapter 193 “Good Lord, a golf club worth over 2 million? I’ve never even heard of such a thing! Chairman Lockwood really is the wealthiest man in Crestwood!” “Chairman Lockwood giving such a prized possession to Mr. Samuel Nightshade must mean more than just congratulations, right? Could it be that the Lockwood Group and the Nightshade Group are planning al collaboration?” “Samuel, can I take a picture with this club?” Christopher looked at Susanna, clearly overwhelmed, “Even if Chairman Lockwood wanted to thank Xan, isn’t this gift a bit too extravagant?” JOVA Oliver chuckled. Indeed, it was quite lavish just to give it to Samuel, but if it was a move to court Xan, then it was perfectly justified. “Xan, Samuel really owes you one today!” Samuel clutched the golf club lovingly, “A genuine work from Simon! I never even dared to dream of this.” Xanthea watched the priceless golf club, remembering the exorbitantly priced jewelry Orion had shown her on the plane. As always, he didn’t hold back when it came to spending. The chatter and glances of everyone in the banquet hall were fixated on the golf club, including Xanthea. Matthew awkwardly closed the watch box he held, which was unnoticed by anyone, his face souring. Today was Samuel’s birthday, and he had splurged on this watch hoping to show the Nightshade family his sincerity toward Xan, only to have Orion steal the spotlight with a golf club! He and Samuel weren’t close, and there were no business dealings between the Lockwood Group and the Nightshade family. Clearly, sending such a valuable golf club, he was aimed at Xan! Orion was making moves. Just in case, Matthew needed to secure his engagement to Xan soon. The Nightshade family was known for their integrity; once a promise was made, it was definitely unbreakable. There was still some time until the engagement, but he hadn’t proposed to Xan yet. The party continued until 11:30 PM. After seeing off the guests, Xanthea returned to the hall and saw Susanna sitting in a corner, secretly wiping tears. “Mom, what’s wrong?” “Xan.” Susanna took her hand, choking up. “It’s nothing, dear. I just felt a bit sad seeing the family together at dinner, all but missing Miranda. As Xanthea heard the name “Miranda“, her expression shifted subtly. Her mother could never imagine that the daughter she had lovingly raised for over a decade was living on them while nurturing vile thoughts, greedy and scheming to seize the family fortune and harm her own sister. She had disguised herself too well. Driving her out was impossible; even if she died, it’d only leave her parents with a lingering pain. The only way was to expose her with those filthy photos and reveal her true cos to everyone. “I’m here. Am I less important to you than my sister?” Nonsense Susanna scolded gently. “You’re my own flesh and blood; of course you matter the most.” 1/2 Chapter 193 “That’s it. And soon, you won’t be sad.” “Why?” Susanna looked puzzled at her daughter’s confident demeanor. Xanthea smiled, “Because the hospital called. They said Miranda’s recovering well and should be discharged soon. “That’s good.” After comforting her mother, Xanthea ran to the back garden, intending to call Orion about today’s gift he sent. But noticing the time was nearly midnight and not wanting to disturb him, she decided against it. Putting away her phone, she was about to head back inside when she bumped into a stumbling, drunk Matthew reeking of alcohol.
Chapter 192 “Chairman Lockwood?” “Horizon Ventures Ltd. is a subsidiary of Twin Towers, so it must be Orion, the chairman of the Lockwood Group, who let you personally come to deliver a gift?” As his words fell, the whole room gasped in surprise. At the mention of the name “Orion“, people from all around the banquet hall began to gather, buzzing with curiosity. Since when did the Nightshade family business get so big that even the Lockwood Group got involved, making none other than Chairman Lockwood himself to prepare a gift for the Nightshade family’s second son’s birthday? Christopher, seeing the situation, exchanged a surprised look with Susanna. Although their company was gradually getting involved in the e–commerce industry, they’d never worked with the Lockwood Group, let alone cultivated a close relationship with Mr. Lockwood. So why would he send someone to deliver a gift? Their eyes turned towards Samuel, who shook his head in confusion, “I don’t even know Mr. Lockwood.” The people around table was wrapped in confusion, all eyes eventually turning to Xanthea. “Ahem.” Xanthea, who was sipping her soup, choked when she heard the name “Orion“, and looked up to see her entire family staring at her, as if expecting some explanation. “Why are you all looking at me?” The Nightshade family had only briefly interacted with Mr. Lockwood twice. Once when Mr. Lockwood attended Xan’s coming–of–age party, and another time when Xan helped him acquire a rare purple jade at the gem betting event. Now that Mr. Lockwood had sent a gift, they naturally thought it had something to do with her. “Xan, do you know why Mr. Lockwood would send a gift?” Xanthea shook her head; she had no idea. She’d just spoken to Orion on the phone, and he hadn’t mentioned anything. “Could it be because you helped him at the gem betting event?” Xanthea remained silent; it was possible. Since Samuel didn’t even know him, there was no reason for him to send a gift. Maybe since he’d been wanting to thank her for a while and she’d been refusing, he decided to use Samuel’s birthday as an opportunity to express his gratitude? “Not necessarily Oliver, with a knowing smile, turned to Lee, “Mr. Abbott, could you open it and let us see what it is?” a “Yes, let’s see what it is!” The banquet hall was abuzz with excitement, everyone curious about the gift Orion had sent. Lee opened the case he was holding, revealing a golf club. 1/2 12:17 “What a beautiful golf club!” “The material and design look exquisite; it must be quite valuable.” “What does the engraving say?” “A genuine work from Simon West?” Samuel, seeing the golf club, stood up immediately, his eyes shining with incredulous joy. “Mr. Samuel Nightshade has good taste. This one was indeed crafted by Seraphia’s famed golfer Simon West himself, and it even bears his signature. It’s the only one of its kind in the world, and has been part of the Horizon Ventures Ltd. collection. Hearing that you’ve always been fond of golf, Chairman Lockwood instructed me to bring it over.” As soon as Simon’s name was mentioned, the room erupted in murmurs of amazement. “In the early 19th century, a golf club made by the sports legend Simon was auctioned in Seraphia, and it was acquired by a mysterious buyer for 300 grand. Who would have thought it would appear here today?” “The 300 grand back then is not the same as 300 grand now; its price must’ve multiplied a few times over.” “That was like 2 million dollars!” Chapter 193
iting to see if you’d show up or not.” “Of course I–I’ll be there!” Xanthea felt a bit guilty as she glanced at Oliver, lifting the gift box in her hand, “Not just show up, but I also got you the gift you’ve been thinking about!” Samuel’s gaze shifted to the game console she was holding, and his gloomy expression instantly brightened. “A brand–new Dreamcast console? I heard it just came out and it’s not even in stores yet. Xan, how did you “manage to get it?” Finally, he let go of her, and Xanthea massaged her ears, “I got someone to help me get it.” “I knew you still care about me, always remembering what I wanted,” Samuel happily ruffled her hair and planted a couple of kisses on her face. “Alright, Samuel, I just came off set and haven’t even washed my face yet.” “Even without washing, you’re still my favorite darling!” *Xan!” Outside the banquet hall, Matthew approached her quickly upon seeing her, his face radiating joy. For the past few days, he’d wanted to see her but was turned away because she was busy filming and visitors were not allowed on set. Today, finally seeing her at Samuel’s birthday party, he realized just how much he missed her! They used to spend every day together, which he took for granted. Now, just a few days apart, he found himself restless, sleepless, and distracted, constantly thinking of her no matter what he was doing. He knew he couldn’t live without her anymore. “Have you been alright lately?” “I’m fine.” Before he could continue, Xanthea brushed him off with a brief response, barely even glancing his way. “Ethan, Samuel, Xan, Oliver, Matthew, don’t just stand there, come on over and eat!” Christopher and Susanna, seated at the main table in the banquet hall, waved them over. Everyone moved to their places in order, greeting the distinguished guests and family friends around them. After a round of compliments for the three siblings, the guests began to present their gifts. When it was Matthew’s turn, he opened the gift box he was holding. “Whoa, an 18K gold watah, that’s not cheap, is it?” Susanna exclaimed, while an elder from the Nightshade family chimed in, “Looks like it’s worth close to 100 thousand, at least 70 or 80 thousand. Matthew, you’re quite the generous future son–in–law, splurging like this even for Samuel’s birthday!” 12.16 Chapter 191 Ethan and Samuel also looked puzzled. Although Matthew was known for his diplomacy and gifting was common, they’d never seen him give something so lavish. “I’m flattered. Xen and I will soon be part of the same family; this is nothing” He emphasized the words “part of the same family, causing a ripple of knowing laughter among the guests. Zerthes remained unbothered, knowing just how well he was playing the role of the devoted partner. When their engagement collapsed, it’d be quite the spectacle. “Hey, isn’t that the CEO of Horizon Ventures Ltd? What’s he doing here?” “Since when did the Nightshade family start doing business with Horizon Ventures Ltd.?” Suddenly, a commotion stirred in the banquet, drawing the main table’s attention. Everyone turned to see a man in a desk suit, carrying a rectangular case, approaching. Christopher immediately recognized him as the new CEO of Horizon Ventures Ltd. and quickly stood up, “Well, Mr. Abbott, what brings you to our gathering today?” “Mr. Christopher Nightshade Lee approached with a warm smile, “I was instructed by Chairman Lockwood to personally bring a gift and celebrate Mr. Samuel Nightshade’s birthday!”
Chapter 190 After disconnecting the call, Xanthea blinked at Oliver, “Uncle Oliver, why are you looking at me like that?” “Yesterday?” “Oh, Orion was sick. I felt guilty for misunderstanding him before, so I went over to apologize in person!” “Just like that?” Oliver eyed her skeptically, and Xanthea nodded, “Just like that.” But the way she had just been on the phone resembled a teenager in a secret young romance, hiding it from her parents. Despite her best efforts to mask her emotions in front of him, her ups and downs were easily swayed by the person on the other end of the line. He’d never seen such a fresh yet unfamiliar flutter of emotions. from her when she was with Matthew. The more Oliver thought about it, the more he felt something seemed off. He had always felt that Mr. Lockwood had a special fondness for Xan, attributing it to the major favor she had done for him at the gem betting event. But upon reflection, if he wanted to repay her, he could simply transfer some money or offer resources. It didn’t need to be so personal, especially concerning the “Realm of Illusions” project. Could it be that Mr. Lockwood had taken a liking to Xan? And Xan, without any initial intentions, through their audition mishap felt guilty towards him. After spending a night at Everglade with him, being young and vulnerable, had she fallen for his charms? But she was about to get engaged to Matthew! “Xan, you’re young and talented, and the world offers many temptations and choices. But as for either dealing with people or business, you gotta do it wholeheartedly. Especially when it comes to relationships, you must remain dedicated. Never lead an unfaithful life; it can easily lead to disaster.” Especially when one of those involved was Mr. Lockwood. She was young and might not realize the danger. Provoking him could have unimaginable consequences!” Xanthea was like, “?” Xanthea looked baffled at his words, not understanding why he jumped to the conclusion of her leading an unfaithful life. “Uncle Oliver, what’re you talking about?” “I’m asking if you still like Matthew?” Xanthea froze. Was her aversion to Matthew so obvious that even her uncle had noticed? As expected, Oliver saw her reaction and confirmed his suspicion, “So, what’re you planning to do? The worst thing in matters of the heart is to drag things out, unclear and entangled.” “Uncle Oliver!” Xanthea interrupted him, “I’ve already figured it out; you don’t have to worry.” “If you say so, I feel relieved.” Oliver nodded. Although she was young, she’d always been sensible and never made anyone worry. 1/2 12:16 Chapter 190 Moreover, from Matthew to Orion. Oliver looked at her, as if she were his own daughter, smiling with gratification, “You’ve really grown up, and your choices are getting sharper!” Xanthea was like, “?” On the other end, Orion stared unblinkingly at the familiar number, his gaze deep and unreadable. His desires seemed to be growing greedier. From mere fleeting thoughts to unreachable touches, and now to close concerns, the closer he got to her, the more he wanted to claim her all of her, completely, to the extent that no one else could even see her. He was nearly driven mad with the thought. At Lakeside Manor, the Nightshade family. The grand hall was dazzlingly lit for the party, filled with fragrant perfumes and elegant figures, gathering many of the Nightshade family’s business associates and Samuel’s close friends. As soon as Xanthea entered the party, Samuel spotted her and made his way through the crowd, irritatedly grabbing her ear. “Xanthea, you’re always busy filming. Do you even remember me anymore? You didn’t call me all–day; did you forget today is my birthday?” “Ouch! Samuel, if you weren’t in my heart, why would I come back? Hey, Ethan, pull him off now; he’s really strong!”
Chapter 189 She had a perfectly good excuse not to return to Sunset Hills Estates now, and Orion presumably wouldn’t think too much about it. She needed to give him a call to explain, lest he thought she was fleeing from some misdeed! After pulling out her phone, she remembered she only had Cedric’s number. At this hour, he was probably already home. “Uncle Oliver, do you have Orion’s number?” “Yeah, what’s up?” “I need to talk to him about something.” “You don’t have his number?” Oliver was surprised, “I thought you two were close enough to have exchanged contacts by now. By the way, did you guys clear up that misunderstanding at the audition last time?” “Yeah, he’s forgiven me!” “I told you, Mr. Lockwood is a mature and generous man. He wouldn’t hold a grudge against a kid like you.” He sent the number to her phone, “What’s so urgent that you need to call him now?” “Nothing much, just that he’s been sick these days and I wanted to check on him.” Sick? Oliver was puzzled. She didn’t even have his contact details; how did she know he was sick? And with her busy shooting schedule, she even forgot Samuel’s birthday but still remembered Mr. Lockwood’s illness? 3001, Sunset Hills Estates In the vast room, Orion sat alone at a dining table laden with exquisite dishes, watching the clock on the wall tick by. It had been thirty minutes. Was she not coming today? His phone suddenly rang, displaying a long–preserved but never used number in the caller ID. Orion’s expression stiffened. Xan? “Hello?” The phone connected, and Xanthea swallowed nervously, “Orion, it’s Xanthea.” “I know.” His deep, magnetic voice came through, causing Xanthea to pause briefly. She’d never called him before: how did he know it was her? “Has your f “It’s b “It’s better.” gone down?” Better, so that meant it only decreased a little? Yesterday it’d only dropped by 0.4 degrees, and he said it was better, “Thea keep taking your medicine tonight, rest well, and don’t run around!” Orion detected the caring tone in her voice. His thick lashes drooped slightly, “Aren’t you coming over tonight, Xab?” Xanthea had intended just to exchange pleasantries and hang up, but his subdued tone, tinged with 1/2 12:16 Chapter 189 disappoint, he sounded like a sad, water–soaked puppy, which made her want to comfort him. She quickly glanced at Oliver, who was watching her closely, and said with a stern face, “I’ve got something to do tonight.” There was a pause on the other end.. “Xan, I don’t mind that you touched me last night; you don’t have to be shy.” Who touched…” Xanthea’s face flushed at his words, almost jumping up, startling Oliver. Seeing Oliver’s surprised look, she bit her lip, holding back her emotions, and lowered her voice, “Last night was a misunderstanding: I can explain! And it’s not that I’m shy, I really do have plans. Today’s Samuel’s birthday; I’m going back to the mansion to celebrate.” So that was it. Orion’s gaze lowered, his somber mood dissipating, “Will you come tomorrow, Xan?” “Let’s…let’s talk about it until then.” Xanthea, seeing Oliver’s increasingly curious gaze, hurriedly finished her sentence and hung up the phone, “Remember to take your medicine; that’s it for now, bye!”
Chapter 188 “Boomi Xanthea scrambled into the house and slammed the door shut with a thud. Her face was flushed; she was panting, leaning against the wall with trembling hands, and clutching a bag of potato chips as if she had been electrocuted. What a disaster! How could she face him now, especially after she had panicked and ran away without a word! Should she go back and explain? But wouldn’t that be even more awkward now? And what would she say? That her chips accidentally fell on his pants, and she was just picking them up? Would he believe that? Oh no! This is a disaster! Xanthea buried her face in her large bed, and bit the corner of the blanket in misery. She felt her hand unclean, her reputation tarnished, and that she would forever be branded as a ruffian by Orion! At the Realm of Illusions filming location “Phoenix, after all this time, you still won’t admit you betrayed the organization? Do I need to brand you with this iron before you’ll speak the truth?” taunted the actor holding the red–hot branding iron with tongs. 1..” Just as Xanthea was about to reply, the sight of the glowing hot iron brought back a nightmare she had the previous night. In her dream, she was inexplicably tied up in a blacksmith’s shop; the kidnapper pointed to a scorching iron bar in the furnace, demanding she work it with her bare hands! The thought of touching that red–hot iron terrified her. The kidnapper kept urging her on maliciously, mocking her, “You like it, don’t you? Let’s see how well you handle it.” Suddenly, she looked up and saw the kidnapper was–Orion! “… “Cut!” Kevin, the director, interrupted, pointing to a crew member who was too close to the set, and accusing him of causing a continuity error. “Sorry, sorry, Director.” “That’s it for today, everyone. Wrap up!” Xanthea breathed a sigh of relief but then faced another dilemma: Should she visit Orion? If she didn’t go, she worried about whether his fever had subsided or if he had taken his medicine on time. She had promised to look after him until he recovered, and running away now might seem suspicious, as if she was guilty of the previous night’s indiscretion. -But how could she face him after what happened? 1/2 12 16 m Chapter 188 As she was grappling with her decision, a voice called out from outside the set, “Xan!” She looked up, “Uncle Oliver, what are you doing here?” “What do you think?” Oliver approached, and flicked her forehead playfully. “You get so caught up in things, you even forgot today is Samuel’s birthday?” “Oh, right!” Xanthea’s face fell, “I’m doomed! I didn’t get him a present; he’s going to kill me!” “Don’t worry, you scatterbrain. I have already taken care of it.” Oliver lifted a gift box, “It’s the latest Dreamcast gaming console. Samuel’s been wanting it for a while, and it’s not even out in the stores yet.” “Thank God, thank you, Uncle Oliver! You’re the best!” “Alright, no more chit–chat, get in the car. The birthday party is about to start.” As Xanthea climbed into the car, she felt her mind already racing with thoughts.
Chapter 187 Xanthea let out a ndent sigh of relief. She must have been overthinking it. With his cool, aloof demeanor, and gentlemanly nature, how could he possibly make such a risqué joke with her, a young girl? After taking his medicine, Orion stood up and took a step, then curiously turned to look at her. “Xan, are you staying out here to continuatching that movie from earlier?” “What are you talking abou At his words, Xanthea jumped up from the couch with the energy of a startled fish, Who, who said I wanted to watch that movie? Don’t project your sleazy thoughts onto others. I said I just wanted to watch a cartoon!” “Then I’ll stay here with you.” Saying so, he grabbed a few bags of snacks from the fridge and sat back down. Xanthea was puzzled. Did he really suspect her of sneaking a watch alone? Was he staying deliberately to keep an eye on her? “No way! You’re sick, you need to rest.” “I can sleep on the couch.” Orion handed her the snacks. “These are for you, Xan.” “I don’t want them. Oh, they’re my favorite cucumber–flavored chips!” Xanthea happily took the chips, and felt that the air conditioning in the room was strong enough that it wouldn’t matter if he slept on the couch. To prove her innocence and for the sake of cucumber chips, she let him be. “Just make sure you sleep, no peeking at the TV!” “Okay” Xanthea opened the chips and watched the cartoon. He propped up his arm, watching her. After one episode, the sounds of steady breathing came from beside her. Turning her head, Xanthea saw Orion’s eyes slightly closed, his face peaceful in sleep. He was asleep? She moved closer to him, intending to cover him with a blanket, but was momentarily captivated by his stunningly handsome features. Even though she had seen his face hundreds of times, each glance made her wonder how someone could be so incredibly frandsome. His perfect eyebrows, the high bridge of his nose, his deep facial contours. Her gaze drifted from his flawless face to his well–defined chest, and then down to a rather impressive bulge that she quickly looked away from. 1/2 12:15 Chapter 187 She hurriedly grabbed the blanket to cover him, but accidentally dropped a chip right onto his lap, which perfectly landed on his sensitive area! Xanthea panicked, “What?!” Damn! How could this happen? Such beauty leads to error! Terrified, she looked at Orion; thankfully he hadn’t awakened. If he had woken up to see this scene, she wouldn’t be able to face him! She nervously swallowed and reached for the chip, trembling. Just as she touched it, a deep, hoarse voice came from above, “Xan, what are you touching?” “Ah!” Xanthea jumped in shock, and in her panic, she pressed down hard, causing his brows to furrow in discomfort. “I’m not, I didn’t mean to!” She withdrew her hand as if it had been burned; her face turned beet red and her words were stumbling out incoherently. Finally, overwhelmed with embarrassment and unable to face him, she turned and ran. As she dashed out the door, one of her slippers flew off her foot. Orion watched her fleeing figure, a deep, affectionate smile spreading across his face. After a while, he shook his head and headed to the bathroom. That little imp, trying to let him sleep, yet she woke ‘him up.
Chapter 186 Where’s the remote?” It was right here a second ago, how could it vanish?” The more flustered Xanthea became, the harder it seemed to find the remote. As the movie on screen grew increasingly risqué, with scenes spiraling into the absurd, Xanthea suddenly. stood up in a panic and dashed in front of the TV, spreading her arms wide to shield the not–so–ki scenes. She stuttered towards Orion on the couch, “Orion, don’t–don’t look!” Orion hadn’t been paying attention to the TV until her antics caught his eye. There she stood, arms wide, swaying side to side as if desperately trying to block the view. Yet, her slim figure, wrapped tightly in a sweater and jeans, showed off her curves in a way that drew Orion’s gaze like a moth to a flame. Especially her flushed cheeks and slightly parted lips, combined with the faint moans from the TV, seemed as though she was the one making the sounds. “I told you not to look, and you’re still looking!” “Don’t your gadgets work with voice commands? Just change the channel already!” Seeing Orior’s eyes intensely fixated on her, with a look so fiery it seemed to burn through her clothes, Xanthea felt her heart skipped a beat. He was young and full of vigor. Could he be getting carried away? Was there still time for her to escape? Just as Xanthea glanced towards the door, Orion picked up the remote, and said in a husky voice. “You’re blocking the view.” “Oh, right.” She hastily moved aside, revealing a screen filled with scenes that definitely needed censoring. Xanthea almost immediately covered her eyes. How on earth did a movie like this get past regulations? Orion paused–upon seeing the TV; she finally came to understand what she had been trying to block. The lascivious sounds continued from the TV, and as Xanthea incredulously lowered her hands, she stared at Orion, who was now quietly watching with the remote in hand, her eyes wide in disbelief, “?” “Orion, what are you doing? Change the channel already!” Was he actually getting into it? So her moving aside was just so he could get a better look? “Okay.” Orion smirked slightly and switched the channel. Xanthea though his smile looked mischievously odd, but the dangerous desire in his eyes had vanished.. Who was going on? Head watched for quite a while without reaction. What about before? “Do you want to watch something similar, Xan?” “Shnilar my foot!” Xanthea’s tongue tangled in her mouth, startled by his teasing. “Put on a cartoon!” 1/2 12:15 Chapter 186 As Orion observed her flushed face, the amusement in his eyes deepened, and Xanthea had an odd feeling, he was playing with her. “Stop fussing, just finish dinner, take your medicine, and go to bed.” “Alright.” Orion put down the remote, looking at her, “Will you stay with me tonight, Xan?” Xanthea almost choked. Under normal circumstances, it was an innocent question utterly bizarre. it sounded It was probably because the sequence sounded too much like the movie they had just escaped: dinner, a gift, then bed. But last night had been the same, and if she refused now, would it seem like she had something to hide? *Sure, but I want to watch a couple of cartoons first. I’ll stay out here with you, and you go to your room and sleep. When you’re asleep, I’ll leave.” Chapter 187 Orion nodded, not doubting for a second.