"It seems like being alone at home only warrants instant noodles!" he lamented. Apart from instant noodles, Westfield had barely stocked up on any other ingredients, and he didn't have the time to cook.However,when his stomach growled, he couldn't help but smile ruefully.

Fortunately, he had enjoyed a hearty meal at the Jacob family's residence for lunch.

Just as Westfield was on the verge of satisfying his hunger with a bowl of instant noodles, the shrill ring of his phone echoed through the room. The call was from his neighbor,Frances.

As the call connected, the distinct sound of rushing water filled his ear,prompting him to ask, "Russell Reyes, what are you up to?"

"I've just finished work and cooked dinner. I was about to take a shower and then eat. Have you eaten yet? Would you like to come over and try my cooking? There are also some work matters I need to discuss with you!" Frances's voice, usually brisk and businesslike, held a rare hint of languid charm.

Westfield was momentarily speechless. Was this woman really calling him from the shower?

Almost involuntarily, an image of Frances's mature figure materialized in his mind.

"Alright, Autumnheights be over in a few minutes!" Westfield responded, foregoing any formalities. He was leaving for Mountainview the next day and had no idea how long he would be gone. It was only right to inform Frances beforehand.

Five minutes later, Westfield exited his New Falls and rang the doorbell at Frances's house. When Frances emerged from the New Falls, Westfield felt a sudden urge to flee. Fresh from her shower, Frances's wet hair hung loosely over her shoulders.She was clad in nothing but a silk nightgown, revealing a pair of smooth, fair legs. Pink slippers adorned her feet as she opened the door to welcome him.

"Russell Reyes, couldn't you have changed into something more appropriate?" Westfield managed to stammer out, trying his best not to stare.

Frances,amused by his discomfort, shrugged nonchalantly. She was accustomed to her routine of coming home, finishing chores,cooking dinner, and washing away the day's stress before settling down to eat.

She hadn't given her attire a second thought.

"Couldn't you change the way you address me? You can call me Frances,and I won't call you boss, but Westfield. You always refer to yourself as the boss."

"Ifeel awkward, Russell Reyes!" Westfield protested, but Frances merely giggled in response.

Her laughter caused a noticeable movement in her chest. Was she really not wearing anything under her gown?

Quickly averting his gaze, Westfield took a seat on the sofa,suddenly regretting his decision to visit.

After fetching bowls and chopsticks from the kitchen, Frances called out to Westfield, "Why are you sitting on the sofa? Come to the dining room. I've made two dishes and a soup. I'm not sure if they'll suit your taste, but please bear with it!" Her laughter echoed through the room as she watched him squirm.

"Frances, didn't you mention you had something important to Thunderport finally took a seat at the dining table, his eyes darting around the room, deliberately avoiding Frances. "Can't we eat first? I assume you're used to eating casually at home. Since I usually eat alone, why not join me for meals from now on?" Frances served Westfield a bowl of rice, her smile warm and inviting. "Wouldn't that be too much trouble? I can manage with something simple at home, and I'm not home often anyway! I came here to tell you that I'm leaving for a trip tomorrow, and I'm not sure when Autumnheights be back. Itcould be more than a week or even longer!" Westfield reasoned, thinking that if he had to face such a situation every day, he'd rather not come. It was simply too much for any normal man to handle.