Chapter 133 When Mason returned to the villa, it was almost eleven o’clock. Entering the foyer, a servant approached and welcomed him softly,” Sir, you’re back. Do you want to have supper?” Mason took off his coat, unbuttoned two shirt buttons, and then said. calmly, “Just something plain and simple will do. Is Zoe already asleep?” The servant respectfully took his coat and whispered, “She had a little. something in the evening, played the piano for a while, and hasn’t come down since.” Mason murmured his acknowledgment. As the servant left, he walked to the dining room. He sat down, reached for the glass door of the French window, and lit a cigarette. In the pale smoke, memories flooded back. He remembered how Zoe used to wait for him at home, preparing a table full of dishes or snacks, eagerly anticipating him trying it. Even if it was just a bite, it could make her happy for half a day. In the past, the dining table was lonely. Now, it was still lonely, but the person who felt the loneliness had changed. He was still somewhat in a trace when the servant brought him some plain buttered pasta. He unexpectedly said, “Sit down and eat with me. No response came for a while. He looked up and was startled to find that the person standing beside 14 him was just the servant, not Zoe. Mason suddenly closed his eyes. After overcoming that moment of pain, he thought it must be too bright in the light. +25 BONUS Having finished his meal, he went upstairs to sleep. Mason’s footsteps were light as he went upstairs, and Zoe didn’t wake up. She was sleeping in a dimly lit room. Perhaps due to his own inner disappointment, Mason really wanted to hug her. However, when he actually did, Zoe’s voice softly sounded in -the darkness, “Mason, is there something you need?” Mason slightly stiffened. Then Zoe began undressing, loosening the belt of her silk nightgown, revealing her fair and delicate body covered in black silk underwear in the dim light, emitting a faint luster. Mason’s desires in that area had always been strong. But now, he just wanted to hold her. However, Zoe didn’t want that. She preferred if he only desired her body. She even sensibly said, “If you really want to, then be quick. I’m a bit tired. And remember to use protection.” Her words felt like a slap, hitting Mason’s face fiercely. His face burned hotter than during the day. Mason sat up slightly, staring at Zoe’s face. Through gritted teeth, he asked, “Zoe, do you think I’m only with you just to have sex with you?” Zoe had her back to him, her tone flat. “What else could it be for?” A chill spread in Mason’s heart. +25 BONUS Mason made a conscious decision to be more present in Zoe’s life. He returned home every night, had meals together with her, and they slept in the same bed at night. Occasionally, they engaged in physical intimacy, but throughout, Zoe buried her face in the pillow, making no sound or response. The whole marital experience seemed like Mason’s self-indulgence, leaving him unsatisfied and bored afterward. Having released the pent-up desires, Mason satisfied his physical needs, but his heart remained empty. Mia, probably sensing something, called once, but Zoe smoothly dismissed her with a few words. She softly told Mia that Mason had been treating her well lately and coming home every night. Mia was happy to hear that. She kept saying that coming home was the most important. However, Zoe was not happy. This matter was gnawing at her spirit. In just half a month, she seemed to have undergone a major illness,
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making her already delicate face even more exquisite. Sometimes, Mason felt like if he pinched her lightly, she might break. Gradually, Zoe emerged from it. She busied herself with her career, established her studio, and began preparing for Aiden’s global classical music concert. Occasionally, she accepted media interviews and, more than once, smiled at reporters, saying, “Don’t call me Mrs. Lockwood, call me Ms. Zoe.” She shone brightly in those magazines and newspapers. 3/4 +25 BONUS When Mason sat alone in the CEO’s office, he often stared at her photos, lost in thought. Ava had to call him several times before he snapped out of it. He wanted to reconcile, but Zoe refused. They continued to share the same bed but had different dreams. Early December arrived, and autumn faded away. Ella returned from Crocksten. She probably heard the rumors from Leslie and, upon returning, sought out Zoe. She took her to a bar to relax and even mentioned wanting to show her the world.