Chapter 9

Chapter 9:

Cristian noticed a fleeting change in Fernanda’s expression. “From the look on your face, I gather you’re familiar with that place.” Within moments, Fernanda regained her composure. She averted her eyes and responded indifferently, “I’m familiar with the name, but I don’t know much about it. I’m just surprised you’d have any interest in such a trivial village p>

“You don’t know much about it, huh?” Cristian echoed, focusing intently on her choice of words. A quiet sigh escaped him. “That’s disappointing p>

Fernanda offered no further comment.

Shortly after, the restaurant owner brought their meal to the table.

They ate in silence, neither of them speaking.

While they dined, Cristian watched Fernanda’s reactions to each dish. Whenever she seemed pleased by a flavor, he discreetly pushed the plate closer to her. Any dish that elicited even a slight scowl from her, he gently moved aside.

In the end, Fernanda savored only the dishes she liked. The chef’s skill was unmistakable, bringing back memories of Zhota’s distinctive salty and spicy flavors.

Reclining in her chair, she enjoyed a sip of lemonade, perfectly balancing the richness of the food.

Cristian’s thoughtful gestures throughout the meal left a lasting, favorable impression on her. Despite her initial doubts, he had shown a remarkable level of consideration.

“Done?” Cristian asked, glancing at Fernanda as he stood by the table. “Shall I drive you home p>

“There’s no need,” Fernanda replied, her voice steady. “I can take a taxi p>

“I was the one who brought you here. I insist on taking you back,” Cristian said, holding the restaurant door open for her with a gentle gesture.

Once they were settled in the car, Cristian casually asked for her address.

Hesitant to reveal that she lived in the upscale Dawn Villas, Fernanda mentioned a more modest residential complex nearby instead.

Neither of them spoke during the ride back. Fernanda gazed out the window at the lively streets, while soft, soothing music played in the background, lending a calm air to the drive.

Fernanda found herself unexpectedly appreciating Cristian’s music selection, which revealed his surprisingly refined taste.

As the car navigated a sharp turn, Fernanda covertly observed Cristian. The unwavering focus he maintained on the road, combined with the sculpted angles of his profile, was mesmerizing. The flickering headlights of passing cars highlighted his deep eyes, giving him a piercing intensity.

Her thoughts drifted back to the agility Cristian had displayed in an earlier altercation. The way his shirt had clung to his muscular form hinted at the raw strength and precise control of a well-trained fighter.

Soon, they arrived at the complex Fernanda had mentioned. Cristian suggested accompanying her inside, which she politely declined.

“Are you always this cautious?” Cristian teased, a gentle smile playing on his lips. “Worried I might linger around your lobby to learn your address p>

“Not quite,” she replied at once. “A man as occupied as you surely wouldn’t indulge in such quirky pastimes p>

Cristian arched an eyebrow, his amusement evident. With a sudden movement, he leaned forward and skillfully took her phone from her hand. Before she could protest, he quickly entered a number and pressed dial. The familiar ringtone sounded from his own pocket.

“There, that’s my number,” Cristian said, handing her phone back. “If you find yourself needing anything while you’re here in Esaham, just give me a call. I’m here to assist p>

Fernanda paused, her gaze lingering on his before she murmured her thanks. She accepted her phone and stepped out of the vehicle.

The evening breeze tousled her hair and fluttered the edges of her coat, outlining her elegant silhouette as she walked away.

Cristian remained in the car, watching her until she disappeared into the building’s entrance. Only then did he retrieve a cigarette from his pack and light it.

The flickering ember cast a predatory glow in his eyes as he exhaled a perfect ring of smoke.

He glanced at his phone, where the new contact was saved under “Letty Molina,” the name she had provided earlier.

He opened his photo gallery, finding just one picture of Fernanda caught mid-bite. Her cheeks were rounded endearingly, an amusing contrast to her typically reserved demeanor, making her resemble a carefree, charming hamster.

A quiet chuckle escaped Cristian as he gazed at the photo, his amusement split between her captured expression and the stealth with which he had snapped the picture of her indulging in her meal.

The contrast she presented was astonishing.

Lost in thought, Cristian renamed her in his contacts; “Letty Molina” vanished, replaced by the affectionate nickname “Gem p>

At the entrance of the sprawling complex, Fernanda lingered for a moment, ensuring Cristian’s car had disappeared into the horizon before she moved forward. She walked softly toward the opulent residence of the Morgan family.

Half an hour later, she found herself outside the grand villa. The luxurious facade, which many would dream of calling home, only made Fernanda feel confined and suffocated. The dinner she had just enjoyed stood in stark contrast to the storm brewing within her as she entered the villa.

She ascended the steps and pushed open the front door.

Inside, several pairs of eyes turned toward her in perfect sync. On the sofa sat Robert, Michelle, Erika, and Michelle’s young nephew and niece.

Robert’s expression was clouded with irritation, while Erika wore a smug, victorious smile.

Fernanda paid them no mind, intent on heading straight upstairs. However, Robert’s stern voice stopped her.

“Stop right there! Fernanda, where were you this afternoon p>

“I was meeting a friend,” Fernanda replied with an air of indifference.

“There you go, Dad! She won’t even tell the truth!” Erika shrieked, her voice sharp with accusation. “She’s been spending her time fooling around with some guy! It’s her first time in Esaham. She couldn’t possibly have friends here already! Amber saw everything—Fernanda climbing into a luxury car! Clearly, she’s keeping company with a sugar daddy! Fernanda is nothing more than a shameless, indecent woman p>