Chapter 502 Cufflinks and a ThankYou
What could she possibly give that would be both a meaningful present and a proper way to show her gratitude?
Her gaze drifted over various displays until it suddenly settled on a pair of cufflinks.
“Chrysoberyl cufflinks–now that’s something you don’t see every day,” Arabella remarked, then asked the sales associate to bring them out.
“You have excellent taste, ma’am. This is an exclusive design from our in–house jeweler, and this pair is truly one–of–a–kind…” The associate launched into an enthusiastic explanation.
Arabella examined them closely. “They’re beautiful. Clean, classic design, impeccable craftsmanship–you can tell they’re handmade.”
Most importantly, they were genuinely rare.
“You really know your jewelry, Miss. Honestly, you sound more like an expert than I do. Are you in the business?” The associate looked at her, impressed.
Arabella offered a slight smile. “Please wrap them up for me.”
These were the ones. She was pleased with the choice.
“They’re nice,” Lucas said, trying to sound casual. “Who are they for?”
Almost without thinking, Arabella replied, “Mr. Stewart.”
“Why are you buying him something?” Lucas‘ voice came out sharper than he intended.
She was getting a gift for Matthew?
Why would she be buying Matthew a gift?
“What’s with you?” Arabella frowned at him.
Only then did Lucas realize he’d overreacted.
After steadying himself, he said, “Nothing. It just surprised me, that’s all. Aren’t you two just business partners?”
“Your cufflinks are ready, Miss,” the associate said, handing over the neatly wrapped box in a shopping bag.
Arabella passed her card over. “You can run it–no PIN required.”
“Of course,” the associate replied and went to complete the transaction.
She turned back to Lucas. “It’s a thank–you gift for Mr. Stewart.”
She didn’t elaborate, so Lucas didn’t press further, though the explanation left him with a bitter taste in fig
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Chapter 502 Cufflinks and a ThankYou
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mouth.
A thank–you gift… so Matthew had given her something first.
“Didn’t you want to look around? Let’s go see what you had in mind,” Arabella said after tucking her card away, holding the bag lightly.
Lucas shook his head, deflated. “I was just browsing. Since you’re done, we can go.”
“You’re not getting anything?” She studied him.
“Actually, I just remembered I’ve got some things to take care of. I’ll come back another time,” he said vaguely.
Arabella didn’t push it. “Alright then. Let’s head out.”
They left the mall and got into his car.
Lucas felt low. He was only torturing himself, really.
“Hah…” He let out an unconscious sigh.
Arabella glanced over. “What’s going on with you today?”
She’d noticed he’d been off since lunch–quiet, distracted.
“Hmm? Oh, nothing.” Lucas shook his head lightly. “Just tired.”
“Really?” She didn’t sound convinced.
He forced an easygoing smile. “Yeah, really. Just a long day.”
“Then why the sigh?” Did he think she hadn’t heard?
“Like I said, just tired. I’ll go home and rest up. I’ll be fine.”
Lucas started the engine. “Don’t worry–I’ll drop you off at the office first, then go home and crash.”
Arabella nodded slowly. “Alright.”
He drove somewhat absently, his mind stuck on Arabella and Matthew. What was going on between them?
Why were they exchanging gifts out of the blue?
But Arabella seemed so calm, so normal–he didn’t know how to even ask.
And so, tangled in his thoughts, he pulled up to the pharmaceutical company.
Arabella stepped out. “Thanks for today. Get some rest.”
“No problem,” Lucas managed. “See you at the academy tomorrow?”
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Chapter 502 Cufflinks and a ThankYou
“Sure. See you then.”
He watched her walk toward the building, the shopping bag swinging lightly in her hand. His chest tightened, and his eyes stung just a little.
“How did it come to this…” he murmured to himself.
Deep down, he felt a quiet, growing unease.
Arabella walked into the living room of Stewart Manor and immediately spotted Robert relaxed on the sofa, enjoying a cup of coffee.
“Robert,” she greeted as she approached.
“Well, look who’s here–Dr. Hamilton!” Robert set his cup down, his face brightening. “It’s been too long since you came by to see this old man.”
Arabella smiled. “Even if I haven’t visited, we still run into each other fairly often.”
“That’s not the same. Running into each other is one thing–coming to see me is another.” His tone carried a hint of playful reproach.
She chuckled softly. “Alright, my mistake. I’m here now.”
“In that case, you must stay for dinner,” Robert insisted, his eyes hopeful.
Seeing his expectant look, she nodded. “Alright, I’d love to.”
Robert perked up instantly. “Wonderful! Charles,” he called to the butler, “let the kitchen know to prepare a few of Dr. Hamilton’s favorites.”
“Right away, sir,” Charles replied and went to relay the instructions.
After taking a seat, Arabella observed Robert’s complexion, then checked his pulse gently. Finally, she nodded in approval. “It looks like you’ve been taking good care of yourself lately.”
“Of course. I wouldn’t want to let you down,” Robert said with a touch of pride.
Arabella’s smile lingered as she glanced around the room. “Is Mr. Stewart not home this evening?”