Chapter 239 She Knows “HN Studio is a menace! They silenced me right when I was raising an argument about their subpar products and gave me a beating!” “Where is fairness? Where is the law? Behold my visage!” Seated upon the floor, the middle–aged woman lamented, casting curses upon Kate. She ignited the storm, met by others incensed, “What drives you to strike in dissent? Does courtesy elude you so?” Within HN Studio, pandemonium reigned. Security’s countenances, frosty, staunchly held the torrent at bay, voices raised in command, “Cease your forward thrust!” Yet the mob, heedless, surged forth in frenzy, some even attempting blows. The assistant bore upon her cheek a stark imprint, her mouth set in resolute demand, “Summon the constabulary! This scene must end!” Thus, after morning’s interlude, the constabulary returned to HN Studio by afternoon’s fall. Security had corralled the agitators within, their garments detained as well. Under vigilant watch, the woman who dealt the blow lay pinned by twin guards, across from Kate serenely seated upon the divan, her gaze glacial. At sight of the constables, the middle–aged woman wrestled with fervour, as if reunited with kindred spirits, beseeching, “Officers, they purveyed me shoddy wares and struck me! You must intervene!” Kate surveyed the woman coolly, a hint of amusement playing about her lips. “Indeed? Refrain from falsehoods before the law, lest you feel the hammer of justice.” The woman quaked, trepidation flitting through her eyes, swiftly rallying. “You struck me! Behold this mark upon my face!” Her harangue turned to the officers, indicating the crimson print upon her cheek. The constable, visibly vexed, scrutinised the mark upon her face, brow furrowed. ‘Did you indeed strike her?” Kate’s eyes turned dispassionate as she responded, “Yes, I did.” The woman’s eyes sparkled, accusing finger aimed at Kate. “See, she admits it! Officers, arrest her forthwith!” Kate regarded the woman with icy detachment, her voice chilled, “You were the first to strike my assistant. We possess surveillance footage. Shall I retrieve it for your review?” The matron scorned Kate’s words with a derisive snort. “Surveillance? Who’d put stock in such prattle! Vour cinee’s me the CCTV lies defunct How will von muster fontsme?“. un Kate, arching a brow, found amusement in her gaze upon the woman. Her voice was both taunting and intrigued. “And how are you privy to the state of my store’s watching eye?” At Kate’s query, the matron’s visage flickered. Her eyes briefly averted, yet she swiftly regained her poise. “Ha! Blind you deem me? Your store, assaulted! A clear sign of secrets to keep. Why else would it bear such ravage?” All attention turned to the matron. Amongst them, the constables exchanged wary looks, unsure of the truth behind her assertions. Observing Kate and her companions in silence, the matron raised her chin in triumph. “Has the cat seized your tongues? Fearful to speak now?” “How came you to know of our store’s assault?” Kate inquired calmly, arms crossed, her gaze piercing the woman with an icy resolve. Initially conjectural, Kate’s thoughts crystallised once the matron mentioned the shattered CCTV and the vandalism. Be it the earlier break–in or the current tumult, all roads led back to her. At the very least, she was a well–informed adversary.
Category: Reborn of Kate by Isla Rainfield
Chapter 238 I Want a Refund After finally persuading her assistant to leave, Kate signed deeply as she gazed at the meal in front of her, her eyes drifting to her sore wrist. Being a designer, she was used to holding a brush for long periods, so her wrists were usually more resilient than most. Yet, even her endurance couldn’t withstand Eric’s stamina. If this continued…. Kate’s thoughts spiraled into various directions, each more inappropriate than the last, causing her cheeks to flush deeply. She shook her head vigorously, dispelling the unruly thoughts, and focused on her meal. Her peace was short–lived as a sudden commotion erupted downstairs. “We’re returning these! We want refunds!” “These products are unbelievable! I waited a month and this is the quality I get?” “How can you even sell such shoddy work?” “Do you take us for fools?” Kate’s brow furrowed as she swiftly stood and headed downstairs. As she descended, she saw a group of about twenty people, each holding garments, crowding around HN Studio’s counter. Security guards quickly intervened, creating a barrier between the disgruntled customers and the counter. “Look at this material! I wore it and broke out in a rash! This quality is unacceptable! What kind of cheap fabric is this?” A middle–aged woman in her fifties was at the forefront, slamming a piece of backl clothing onto the counter. “Give me my money “Yes, refunds! My daughter wore this and broke out too! These clothes are defective!” “So much for HN Studio’s exclusive line; it’s causing all these problems!” With the woman leading the charge, the rest of the crowd vociferously voiced their grievances. The assistant and a few employees stood at the counter, attempting to explain, “There must be some misunderstanding. All our fabrics are carefully selected by Ms. Lowe and are of the highest quality. They couldn’t possibly cause a rash.” “Impossible? Then what do you call this?” The woman rolled up her sleeve to reveal her rash, her voice rising in anger. “Are you trying to avoid responsibility? Let me tell you, you won’t get away with this! I want compensation!” The assistant, seeing the rash on the woman’s arm, retorted angrily, “We’ve tested these clothes. ourselves, and they have no issues. You’re slandering us!” It became clear that these people were there to cause trouble. Kate held her memant unte te avsetine standarde a tæeranjant to haremst that left no room for doubt Chapter 238 I Want a Refund The morning’s vandalism had unsettled her, and now tumult reigned within her store’s walls. The machinations of rivals were evident. At the assistant’s accusation of falsehood, the middle–aged woman erupted in fury. “Lies?” she bellowed, her large hand meeting the assistant’s cheek with a resounding slap. A crimson imprint marred the assistant’s fair completion. “How dare you strike?” came the protest. The shop became a tempest. Kate’s eyes narrowed, her voice piercing the chaos as she descended. swiftly. “Restrain her!” Security subdued the woman, while Kate hastened to her assistant’s side, her gaze dark with concern. over the fresh mark. Then, she confronted the defiant woman, her anger unabated. Swift and resolute, she delivered another stinging slap. A resounding crack rattled the air! Though her wrist still smarted, Kate’s ire lent her vigour. The woman stood in stunned silence, subdued by the force of the blow. The agitators fell mute, astounded by the abrupt turn Soon after, the middle–aged woman’s cries filled the halls of HN Studio, echoing her dismay.
Chapter 237 What’s With Your Hands The minor incident escaped the attention of others, and Kate found solace in Eric’s embrace, feeling a touch of embarrassment. “It’s not that I need you with me all the time,” she murmured. “I just don’t want you going far away.” Her voice was laced with unmistakable concern, and after a brief pause, she continued, “With things being so uncertain lately, I fear for your safety.” Eric let out a gentle laugh. “My dear Kate, always so considerate.” He gazed deeply into her eyes. “How about you come back to the office with me? I won’t go to Bastilla, but there are matters I need to tend to.” Kate shook her head with determination, a bright smile spreading across her face. “Go ahead, don’t worry about me. HN Studio just faced a crisis, and I can’t abandon ship now. You take care of your business.” Eric lingered for a moment, then kissed her one last time before reluctantly turning away. As he stepped out of HN Studio, his demeanour shifted, his face hardening with resolve. To the office,” he instructed Lucas. Lucas, puzzled, asked, “And Mrs. Kate?” Eric’s gaze turned icy. “Ensure she has adequate protection.” Kate may have resisted his involvement in HN Studio’s affairs, but he could not ignore her safety. It was a time fraught with danger, as old foes resurfaced in Bastilla, stirring unrest once more. Eric had planned to address matters personally in Bastilla, but Kate’s evident anxiety had swayed him. He resolved to send his men while he stayed to oversee the situation from home. It was a time fraught with danger, as old foes resurfaced in Bastilla, stirring unrest once more. Eric had planned to address matters personally in Bastilla, but Kate’s evident anxiety had swayed him. He resolved to send his men while he stayed to oversee the situation from home. As Kate watched Eric’s car disappear from view, the longing in her eyes slowly ebbed, replaced by a steely resolve. She methodically directed her employees to clean up the chaos within the studio. Without Eric by her side, she needed to stand strong, manage independently, and not add to his burdens. The morning slipped away amidst the bustle of activity. Kate flexed her aching hands. Though she hadn’t engaged in heavy labour, her wrists throbbed painfully, making it difficult to even hold a paintbrush. She had no choice but to delegate tasks to her staff, trusting them to restore order. “Ms. Lowe, your luncheon has arrived,” announced the assistant from beyond the threshold, soon. stepping inside to place the meal with a respectful bow upon Kate’s desk. Balance: 1404 + 267 Finished The assistant’s keen eyes noticed this, and she inquired with concern, “Ms. Lowe, is your wrist troubling you?” Kate, momentarily taken aback by the question, felt a slight flush of embarrassment but maintained her composed demeanor. “Just a bit,” she replied serenely. As the assistant deftly unwrapped the meal, she continued, “Ms. Lowe, it’s imperative you take care of your hands. I’ve heard that designers often suffer from ailments due to prolonged use of brushes. It can be quite detrimental.” You are, after all, the head of HN Studio. If your hands are in pain, you “shouldn’t overexert yourself. It’s important to find a balance between work and rest Kate let out a gentle laugh, “I understand.” Observing the faint tremor in Kate’s hand as she lifted the spoon, the assistant’s concern deepened. “Ms. Lowe, you might not realize, but I’m an ardent admirer of your work. Your hands are invaluable. Let me assist you with the meal so you can rest them. You’re an exceptional designer; your creations. are unparalleled without the need for such relentless effort.” Startled, Kate quickly dismissed the notion with a wave of her hand. “No, no, that’s quite unnecessary, I’m truly fine.” Inwardly, however, she mused that the soreness in her hands was not from sketching. Rather, she had underestimated Eric’s vigour the previous night.
Chapter 236 Let Me Do It With the proceedings concluded and the evidence duly gathered, Kate turned her gaze to find Eric, who stood some distance away, engaged in a conversation of evident gravity. His countenance bore the cold sternness of one burdened by weighty matters. Though his voice was hushed and distant, the tension was unmistakable. Sensing her scrutiny, Eric glanced her way, promptly concluding his call with a few terse words before striding towards her. “Kate, how did it fare?” His eyes, shadowed with concern, met hers. “Do you require my assistance?” Drawing a deep breath, Kate shook her head with resolute firmness. “Ric, this is something I need to resolve on my own.” From the very inception of HN Studio, Kate had anticipated the inevitable trials that would accompany its rise. She had steeled herself to confront these challenges, recognising that this was but the dawn of her journey. Her determination to navigate these trials unaided was unwavering, and she would not burden Eric with her struggles. The influence of the Davison Group would, she knew act as a formidable deterrent to those who might seek to undermine her. Their power would temper the discontent of rivals, curbing any impulsive actions against her nascent enterprise. Eric regarded her with a penetrating gaze, the silence between them laden with unspoken understanding. At length, he spoke, his voice gentle yet firm. “Take care, always” After a pause, he reached out, his hand tenderly tousling her hair. “Remember, no matter the hour or the trial, I am your steadfast shield.” His words, imbued with earnest sincerity, brought a soft warmth to his eyes. Kate embraced him, her voice muffled as she nestled against his chest. “Ric, thank you.” Without Eric, she mused, the Lowe Group might have long since crumbled, and she herself would have remained ensnared by the deceptions of Simon and Ruth, doomed to a tragic fate. Eric’s arrival in her life had been nothing short of providential. Reflecting on her previous life, she was struck by her ignorance that had led to Eric’s downfall, a mistake she vowed never to repeat. Eric, with a playful glint, tapped her nose lightly, affection evident in his gaze. “Why speak of thanks?” He hesitated, then his expression grew grave. Taking her hand, he led her aside, away from prying cars. *Kate, I must soon depart for Bastilla to attend to pressing matters. I fear I may be gone for some time.” Kate’s heart skinned a hear “What has hannened? How lone will von he away?“. Balance 1404 286 Eric exhaled, his breath’a whisper of resolve. “I shall see to these matters with all possible haste and return to you forthwith.” Kate, poised to assent, found her thoughts interrupted by a sudden realisation. If her memory served her true Her hand tightened instinctively upon his sleeve, her voice quavering, “Ric, must it be Bastilla?” Eric, perceiving the turmoil in her countenance, touched her cheek with a tender hand, concern shadowing his features. “What troubles you, my dear? Her fists clenched, Kate drew a deep breath, summoning her courage. “I hold no fondness for Bastilla. I wish for you not to venture there. “Are there not others who might undertake this task? Can they not be dispatched in your stead?” Her words faltered as her gaze swept the disarray of HN Studio, her voice softening to a fragile whisper imbued with an almost childlike trepidation. “After all that has befallen HN Studio… I am filled with fear. I need you beside me.” Her plea, tender and trembling, stirred Eric’s heart. Enfolding her in his arms, his tone was suffused with gentle resolve. “Very well, as you wish. I shall not go.” Kate’s eyes sought his, questioning, searching for certainty. “Truly?” Eric nodded, his expression steadfast. “Truly,” He bestowed a delicate kiss upon her lips, a soft smile curving his mouth. “I shall remain by your side, Kate. Nowhere else will I go.”
Chapter 235 Who Could Have Done This? Eric’s face grew grim as he took in the upheaval around him, starkly contrasting with Kate’s composed, though slightly icy, demeanour, “Ms. Lowe, we found the room like this and have already called the police,” the assistant said, his hands balled into fists, frustration written all over his face as he surveyed the mess. “Someone messed with our surveillance cameras too, corrupting all the footage. Luckily, our employee–only areas were protected by security doors, preventing further damage. Kate saw the destroyed security cameras and the mess around, staying calm as she said, “Let’s wait for the police to do their thing, and in the meantime, let’s head up.” While she, the assistant, and a couple of employees stayed down to look after the place, they couldn’t stop sneaking glances at Eric, a bit intimidated by how commanding he seemed. Following the usual path, Kate took the elevator up. She unlocked the hefty anti–theft door in the and entered the office. store The office space upstairs was beautiful. She quickly looked around, saw that everything was secure, and headed back down. Eric was with Kate the whole time, his face getting sterner by the minute. He was just about to speak when his phone started ringing. Glancing at his phone, he turned serious at the caller ID. He shared a quick look with Kate before stepping away to take the call. His expression grew more serious as he listened. When the police arrived, they started their investigation with a sombre demeanour, carefully gathering every piece of evidence. But they hit a snag upon checking the security cameras around the crossroads -someone had tampered with them all! The internals were utterly fried. “Ms. Lowe, has EK Studio been in any recent squabbles?” After investigating for a while, the police asked while studying Kate closely. Kate took a moment before she hesitantly shared, “Well, it’s not a secret that some folks aren’t too happy with us,” And she was right. EK Studio had forcefully entered the market, and its positioning was not high–end but rather mid–to- high–end, targeting a specific group of middle–to–upper–class consumers. This undoubtedly infringed. on the interests of others, making retaliation against EK Studio somewhat expected. After all, both she and Eric had faced danger several times. The incident of EK Studio being vandalised could be considered minor. The police, looking even more concerned, said, “Ms. Lowe, the investigation and evidence collection will take some time. Please bear with us. We will solve the case as soon as possible. We also hope you can provide us with a list of people who may have grievances against you for further investigation.” Balance: 305 ப Chapter 235 Who Could Have Done This? Finished Kate then provided a list that included Simon, Ruth, and the Sadler Group, led by Scott and Lana, who were in financial trouble. Initially, Kate suspected Lana might be involved. Still upon further thought, with the Sadler Group. currently undergoing bankruptcy and liquidation, they were at a critical juncture and unlikely to be behind it Who could it be? With the on–site photography and evidence collection completed, the assistant and several employees carefully cleaned up the chaotic mess on the first floor. Meanwhile, Kate rested her chin on her hand, continuously pondering who could be the most likely culprit behind the attack on EK Studio. In a quiet moment, a name popped into her head. Could it actually be her? After hesitating, Kate dismissed the thought, shaking her head.
Chapter 234 Delivering Two Sets of Clothes Upon hearing the news, Kate was instantly shocked. EK Studio had been robbed? They had just thrown a banquet the day before, and now… EK Studio was in trouble? Who dared to exploit this situation and hit EK Studio? The voice over the phone also reached Eric, making his eyebrows come together and a chilly look flash in his eyes. “Got it. I’m on my way immediately.” Kate replied calmly, then swiftly dressed, only to discover… Clothes were strew strewn all across the floor. Kate was speechless. Her evening dress was utterly ruined, beyond the point of being worn again, including her undergarments. Kate shielded her face with her hands, finding the scene too overwhelming to handle. Eric’s attire was similarly dishevelled as they rummaged through the heap, salvaging only one item–a pair of pants that Eric owned. Eric cleared his throat and told Lucas, “Bring two sets of casual attire to the top floor of the Emperor Hotel. Lucas hesitated briefly on the other end of the call, then quickly grasped what was happening. His sparkled with curiosity, yet he held back his questions and swiftly acted on Eric’s directions. Thirty minutes later, Lucas was at the door, knocking Eric, in just his trousers, opened them, his expression unreadable. “Boss, I’ve got those clothes you asked for!” Lucas carefully handed over two bags to Eric, cautiously avoiding looking into the room. “Mm. Eric accepted the bags without emotion and closed the door solidly behind him.. cyes Five minutes later, they stepped out, looking sharp. The room had been cleaned, and everything was put into a bag that Eric now held. “Boss, Madam!” Chapter 234 Delivering Iwo Sets of Clothes Eric gave Lucas a brief look and commanded, “Head to EK Studio.” Finished Lucas hit the elevator button without hesitation and went to the EK Studio office building. During the drive, he sneakily watched Eric and Kate through the rearview mirror. The Boss and Madam seemed especially into each other last night, didn’t they? Otherwise, why would he have to bring two sets of clothing! They even spent the night at the Emperor Hotel. Thinking this, Lucas allowed himself a slight grin, sneaking peeks at the backseat. “Would you prefer keeping your eyes or your life?” Eric’s frosty tone interrupted, his penetrating gaze locked on Lucas, who instantly tensed up and returned his attention to driving, not risking another glance backwards. Kate snickered at Lucas’s nervous reaction. Before long, they arrived at EK Studio. The lock on the office building was meddled with, and the door bore break–in marks, clearly indicating that EK Studio had unwelcome visitors. The assistants and a few staff members were visibly distressed, waiting outside the office. As Kate exited the car, they hurried to her. “Ms. Lowe, you need to check this out. The merchandise in our store has been partially damaged.” Kate’s expression turned icy as she entered the building, quickly surveying the first floor. The first floor, which showcased EK Studio’s ten exclusive outfits, was in disarray, with mannequins toppled over and some ripped or dirtied qutfits. It was chaos. Moreover, the elevator leading to the offices had been tampered with, though the assailants hadn’t made it to the office spaces. The safe on the ground floor, used for storing cash, had been cracked open, and all items of value were gone, leaving no trace behind.
Chapter 233 The Intelligent One The night was quiet. As Eric woke up the following morning, he discovered Kate’s striking face inches from his own. She appeared tired, even in her tranquil slumber in his arms. With a profound gaze, Eric softly kissed her forehead and pulled her in tighter. Still asleep, Kate mumbled something, instinctively cuddling closer to Eric and holding him firmly. Holding her felt incredibly real as he reflected on last night’s events. Eric’s expression darkened, at spontaneous smile appeared, and his eyes filled with joy. Buzz. Suddenly, his phone vibrated on the nightstand. A hint of annoyance flickered in Eric’s eyes as he quickly silenced it. Yet the sound woke Kate up. She slowly opened her eyes, glanced at Eric next to her, a bit dazed at first, then reached out to hug him. “Hiss… Lifting her arm, Kate sharply inhaled, feeling a deep soreness and a sense of weakness in her arms, almost as if she couldn’t move them, as if they weren’t part of her body anymore. “Are you okay? Eric glanced at her with concern, his large hand enveloping her smaller one, softly massaging to soothe the stiffness in her hands. “I’m okay,” she assured. Kate blushed and shook her head, leaning weakly against Eric’s chest, reluctant to move. Yet as she pressed against him, feeling his warmth, Kate found Her thoughts unwillingly wandering back to the night before. As Eric gently massaged Kate’s hand, he pressed his lips together, a look of regret on his face, saying, “This is all on me.” Why was Kate’s hand so tired if not for his actions? Gently, Kate kissed his cheek and reassured him with a smile, “Don’t worry, it’s not on you.” If they were pointing fingers, she’d be the one to blame. Right when Eric was about to reply, his phone started vibrating. Chapter 233 The Intelligent One Finished The caller was Lucas Ackles. After a short conversation, a serious look crossed Eric’s face, mixed with determination, as he said, “Got it.” Eric ended the call when Kate, now wide awake, noticed his troubled look and couldn’t resist asking. “What’s going on?” Eric’s eyes darkened slightly as he said, “Nothing too big. The Sadler Group just went under, filing for bankruptcy today.” “What?” Kate was shocked. “How did that come out of nowhere? Weren’t Scott and Lana hustling with partners just last night?” Despite the chaos of the night before, if Sadler Group had played their cards right and kept out of trouble, Davison Group wouldn’t have snapped at them so quickly. There were bigger fish to fry, after But for Scott, Sadler Group was his baby. Kate struggled to digest that they’d fold and file for bankruptcy and liquidation, And Lana–she was always so full of fire! After the collapse of the Sadler Group, she lost all her clout. Eric couldn’t help but laugh bitterly. “He’s pretty slick Kate took a moment, and then it clicked. By pulling the plug early on, Sadler Group could bury the past once the dust settled. But if Eric had stepped in… the Sadler Group’s end would’ve been more than just bankruptcy. Scott and Lana? They may be looking at a few years in jail. Buzz. In the middle of their talk, Kate’s phone went off. Surprised, she picked it up–a ring from her assistant She answered that she had been met with her assistant invoice. “Ms. Lowe, There’s been a disaster in our studio; we have been robbed!
Chapter 232 I’ll Help You Inside the suite, Kate, who sat atop Eric, felt a tense stiffness in her body and a dryness in her throat. Her mind raced. As she settled on Eric, she immediately sensed something hard and warm pressing against her lower back. Despite mentally gearing herself up for it, when she finally faced the situation, she still ended up feeling nervous and unsure. Eric remained tense beneath her on the bed, struggling to keep his composure. His intense gaze fixed on Kate, and his voice was low and husky. “Kate… what do you want?” Kate could feel that Eric was holding back. She considered that Eric had likely restrained himself on many occasions before. Kate’s mind was flooded with recollections of almost losing her cool in their past interactions. Eric would always calm himself down whenever that happened with a quick cold shower. She inhaled deeply before leaning in to give Eric a passionate kiss. Her daring kiss had a hint of awkwardness, yet it widened Eric’s eyes. Her confident gesture acted as a catalyst, swiftly eroding the final shreds of Eric’s restraint. Eric wasted no time deepening the kiss. His fiery breath and commanding presence almost consumed. Kate entirely. Rip! The crisp sound of fabric tearing echoed in the room Eric’s shirt lay torn open, buttons strewn across the floor, as he flipped Kate over and pressed her down. His eyes revealed a trace of restraint, his voice wavering. “Kate… have you thought about this?” Kate got what Eric was trying to say. A tingle in her nose followed a warm feeling in her heart. No matter what was happening, Eric consistently put her first, ensuring her needs were met, especially now that he had gone through a lot. He always made it a point to get her approval. Kate sighed softly, slowly pulling up her gown and leaning in to kiss Eric. Eric’s movements intensified suddenly. The luxurious evening gown adorning Kate’s body ripped apart audibly as Eric’s commanding breath. added to the charged atmosphere. The two figures intertwined on the spacious bed, their passion. escalating. With a trace of alcohol, suppressed emotions erupted with intensity. Finished Kate suddenly sensed a peculiar sensation in her lower abdomen. the And Eric squinted slightly, his gaze fixed on the bold red stains on the bed, his lips firmly pressed together. His actions halted, and he glanced at Kate with a hint of frustration. Kate also stared at the vivid red spot, feeling resigned as she facepalmed. Why now? Why did my period have to arrive now, of all times? She looked at the red spot and felt her cheeks warm with embarrassment. Then, she turned to Eric, who seemed just as flustered, and said, “Eric, I’m sorry… She hadn’t expected to be awkward, especially since she thought she was ready to do it Regrettably, the outcome wasn’t what was expected. The fiery red in Eric’s eyes slowly dimmed, and he glanced at Kate, slightly hesitating. Silently, he shifted his gaze away, stepped back, and decided not to look at Kate another time, much less approach her closely. Following a brief, awkward pause, Eric mumbled, “I need a shower,” just as he was about to pivot and go to the bathroom. Kate caught his hand. With a quick look down, Kate bit her lip, and her checks turned pink. “Cold showers aren’t great for you, she commented. “How about I help out?”
Chapter 231 Not Here Eric’s breath hitched. As Kate spoke, her face was severe, and in her gleaming black eyes, a reflected back. all you could see was his outline A subtle scent of alcohol hung in the air, teasing Eric’s senses. Looking at Kate, whose face was shining and captivating from the alcohol, her lips shiny and tinted pink, something within him just broke. He leaned down and kissed Kate’s delicate red lips. Kate let out a soft whimper between her lips, her mind fuzzy from the alcohol, instinctively holding Eric tightly. The scorching warmth emanating from him made her incredibly greedy, and she subconsciously pressed closer, wanting to take more. Eric’s kiss was domineering and intense, with some emotions in his chest threatening to burst out. His. eyes also took on a hint of crimson. “Kate…” His big hand wrapped around her waist, her slim figure feeling just right against his strength and warmth. “Mmm…. Kate lightly hummed, feeling the burning warmth around her waist as if her body was about to ignite. Her eyes seemed filled with spring water, shimmering with a gentle light. “Ric…” Clutching Eric closely, Kate’s voice was a soft murmur, her thoughts unclear, her fingers clumsily struggling with the buttons on his shirt out of frustration. Snap! The noise of cloth ripping echoed around them. Kate ripped Eric’s shirt collar open, and two buttons popped off, bouncing far away on the ground. Eric’s look grew intense as he worked hard to control his feelings. The chaos in his eyes may overwhelm his reason.. Clasping Kate’s hand, he whispered, “Kate… not here! Gently sighing, Eric grabbed Kate and wrapped her in his suit jacket. Carrying Kate, Eric walked out of the secluded room, throwing an icy look over the crowded banquet hall as he entered the elevator, which closed with a quiet thud. Climbinun Amidad She then wrapped her arms around his neck, slightly pouting and saying, “It’s so hot in here…” Her eyes, clouded with the haze of intoxication, locked with Eric’s as she leaned in for a gentle peck on his lips. Eric closed the door behind him, carried Kate, and placed her on the large bed in the room. Just as he started to rise, she pulled him back down. His eyes were quick, and his hands were fast. Eric slightly propped himself up on Kate’s body, gazing at the woman so close to him. His throat involuntarily tightened, and his eyes showed a deep, suppressed storm. Kate wrapped her arms around his neck, giving him a soft kiss. Alcohol gives courage to the shy. Kate’s mind had never been sharper, even with a faint buzz from her drinks. She looked at Eric, who was so close and still trying to suppress his emotions, and asked with concern, “Rig… are you uncomfortable?” Her hand slid down his chest, bit by bit, until…. Eric’s body stiffened! His eyes turned crimson, and he could barely contain the intense emotions. His voice trembled. “Kate, let go of your hand.” Pouting, she replied defiantly, “I won’t.” Biting her lip, she swiftly turned the tables, straddling his waist and seizing control. Eric’s eyes widened, and his breathing became uneven. He gripped the bedsheet beneath him tightly, his veins bulging on his arms. It was like he was barely hanging on to his sanity.
Chapter 230 You Bothered My Wife In a cosy room on the second floor of the Emperor Hotel, Kate snuggled into Eric’s chest on their shared couch, curiously observing the Bennett brothers, Miles and Kyle, seated across from them. Miles looked down, his hair a bit messy, while Kyle, sitting by him, had managed to soften his usual relaxed attitude and seemed happy. “Eric, it’s been great visiting Haldoria.” Kyle picked up the glass on the table before him, poured a drink for Eric, and smiled as he spoke. Eric’s indifferent gaze paused on Miles for a moment before he calmly replied, “No problem, just make sure he behaves.” Miles shrank back a bit, his eyes accusingly fixed on Eric. “Why are you being so cold? What did I ever do to warrant his care?” Feeling unfairly treated, Miles pondered why Kyle had to be present, stripping him of his freedom. Eric looked at Miles and stated plainly, “You’ve been bothering my wife.” Eric’s use of ‘wife ‘carried a particular weight. Kate’s body trembled slightly as she gazed at Eric in surprise. She never anticipated Eric suddenly addressing her as ‘wife‘. Her face flushed instantly, and she nervously adjusted her clothes. Miles quickly defended himself. “I didn’t bother anyone!” Kyle, ever composed, shifted his gaze to Miles, cracking a smile. “Eric, I get it.” He playfully drew Miles closer again, his blue eyes twinkling with fun as he joked, “What’s got you so eager? Scared I might take off? Or is it that His face turned sombre, and Kyle asked, “Have you stopped loving me? Don’t you want me around anymore?” Miles was dumbfounded! This was the first instance of Miles hearing Kyle talk with such a gentle tone, and observing his distressed look, Miles couldn’t help but feel like he was in some dream. He lightly tapped Kyle’s head. “Come on, snap out of it!” Wasn’t Kyle known to be decisive, commanding, and aloof? What had brought about this change? Kyle–laughed softly, his gaze intensifying as he held Miles closer. Feeling sheepish, Miles looked at Kate and Eric, noticing them leaning in close, whispering, nearly wrapped up in one another’s embrace, Eric caught Miles‘ look and shot back a frosty, heavy stare. Balance: 1404 + 390 discussions wrapped up, we should be going.” Miles announced. He stood up, urging Kyle to follow him. Huh?” A bit dizzy and wanting to address Eric, Kyle was swiftly escorted out by Miles. The room was then left with only Kate and Eric. After a few glasses of wine, Kate felt slightly buzzed, her cheeks rosy. She leaned into Eric, watching Miles and Kyle depart, and laughed. “They act just like they’re in a lovers‘ spat.” With a playful grin, Eric gently tapped her nose and, in a deep, suggestive tone, asked, “Then what does that make us?” With her vision slightly fuzzy, Kate wrapped her arms around Eric’s neck, pulling herself closer. Her breath, warm and laced with the scent of wine, brushed against Eric’s face. Looking deeply into his eyes, she whispered, “We’re husband and wife.”