Chapter 425
With minimal makeup, her natural beauty shone through, and her professional demeanor carried a quiet challenge that, as Zola had suggested, some might find provocative.
However, the bearded man’s attention quickly shifted back to Zola. He dismissed the notion with a brief, “She’s not my type. Don’t waste my time.”
Before Zola could respond, her phone vibrated sharply. She glanced down to find a video message from Kian—explicit and compromising, a clear threat. Zola’s grip tightened momentarily, but she quickly masked her tension with a smile, turning back to the bearded man. “Alright, let’s book a hotel online and leave.”
They departed, leaving behind a table full of untouched dishes.
Meanwhile, Eileen was unaware of their sudden exit. After finishing her meal and bidding farewell to Trenton at the restaurant’s entrance, she turned to find Christos standing by her car, waving with genuine enthusiasm.
“Eileen, I recognized your car and decided to wait for you!” Christos exclaimed, his eager blue eyes sparkling in the bright lights, his smile infectious.
As Eileen approached, the potent scent of his cologne briefly overwhelmed her, prompting a slight pause.
“What a coincidence,” she remarked.
“Not at all,” Christos replied with a chuckle. “I saw your car and intentionally waited here!”
It was clear then that his presence was no accident.
Eileen nodded, acknowledging his effort. “Well, thanks for waiting. Do you need a lift home?”
“No, I’m not here to ask for a ride. I came to thank you,” Christos said, his eyes narrowing playfully, giving him a cunning charm that Eileen couldn’t help but notice.
“Didn’t you already thank me?” Eileen remarked lightly, her hand on her car door, ready to leave. “Say whatever you need to now, and then you should head home.”
Christos stepped closer, halting her departure with his earnestness. “My grandpa always said to repay kindness with more than just words. I want to show my gratitude properly.”
“There’s no need for anything more; you’ve already settled your debt,” Eileen responded, attempting to end the conversation there.
But Christos wasn’t deterred. He extended an offer instead. “Let me help you vent your anger. Let me get into your car, and just listen to my instructions. Trust me, I won’t harm you.”
Eileen was perplexed by his proposal, especially given their brief acquaintance.
“You’re not that fond of Zola, right?” Christos winked, a mischievous glint in his eye.
That comment sharpened Eileen’s focus, and her gaze intensified as she scrutinized Christos. She was unaware of anyone named Padilla living in Onaland. Was this a deliberate move by Christos?