You're Welcome To Stay Here

Samuel had been listening nearby. He approached with a gentle, apologetic smile. "My apologies, Miss Sterling. My memory isn't as sharp as it once was. Please, forgive the oversight. Simply tell me what you would like, and the kitchen will prepare it immediately."

Cassandra's smile remained perfectly in place. "Thank you, Samuel," she said, her voice dripping with sweetness.

Alexander, Evelyn, and Cassandra moved into the expansive living room and took their seats on the deep, comfortable sofas.

Eager to capture his attention, Cassandra launched into a series of witty stories about her recent travels overseas. Alexander listened, but his responses were polite and distant, lacking any real engagement.

He meticulously cleaned his hands with a linen napkin. Then, he selected a ripe orange from the crystal bowl on the coffee table. His fingers worked with practiced skill, peeling the fruit with ease.

Cassandra watched him, her heart beating a little faster with anticipation. She was sure the orange was meant for her. As he finished, she subtly extended her hand, ready to accept it.

To her profound disappointment, Alexander placed the perfectly peeled fruit directly into Evelyn's waiting palm.

"These are exceptionally sweet today," Alexander commented, his eyes on Evelyn. "You should try it."

Evelyn, who had been distracted, looked down at the orange in surprise. "How would you know that?"

He had only just walked through the door.

Alexander gave a low chuckle. "I had one before I left this morning," he explained.

Evelyn separated a segment and tasted it. Her expression brightened instantly. "Mmm," she murmured in approval. "You're right. It's delicious."

Almost without thinking, she broke off another piece and held it out to Alexander. He leaned forward without hesitation and took it from her fingers.

Cassandra sat rigidly on the opposite sofa, silently seething as she witnessed their effortless intimacy.

After a moment of tense silence, Cassandra cleared her throat loudly. "Alexander," she began, forcing a bright, artificial smile. "There was something important I wanted to discuss with you."

"Go on," he said, though his attention lingered on Evelyn.

Cassandra feigned hesitation, casting a meaningful glance toward Evelyn. "Well..." she lowered her voice to a confidential whisper. "It's a rather sensitive matter. I'm not sure if it's suitable for present company."

Evelyn looked up, her brow furrowing in confusion.

Alexander's own expression tightened slightly. "Just say what you mean, Cassandra."

Encouraged by his directness, Cassandra finally revealed her true purpose for the visit. "The reason I came today is that I was hoping to impose on your hospitality for a short while. My return has caused quite a media frenzy online. The paparazzi have uncovered all of my properties. Even my parents' home is under constant surveillance. I'm afraid to go back there—I don't want to drag them into this mess."

She continued, her tone pleading. "I know Serenity Oaks is extremely private and secure. The paparazzi would never think to look for me here. I was hoping I could stay for just a few days."

Cassandra let out a helpless sigh. "Of course, I had no idea you were married before I arrived. Now I'm concerned that Evelyn might object. Perhaps it's best if I make other arrangements. I can always check into a hotel."

Hearing this, Evelyn recalled a news article she had seen earlier that day while working.

The famous actress Cassandra Sterling had once been in a dangerous situation because of aggressive paparazzi.

Some photographers would stop at nothing for a exclusive story.

It must be incredibly difficult for a woman in her position to live under such a microscope.

Evelyn responded without malice. "I don't mind at all. You're welcome to stay here." Cassandra was visibly startled by the immediate agreement. "Really?"

She turned her hopeful gaze back to Alexander, seeking his confirmation.

Alexander glanced at Evelyn, verifying her sincerity. Seeing it was genuine, he nodded. "If Evelyn has no objection, then you are welcome to stay. Our private suite is on the second floor. The first floor has several guest rooms. Choose any one you like, and the staff will prepare it for you."

"Thank you," Cassandra replied, her smile grateful and wide.

Dinner was served shortly after, and the three of them gathered around the dining table.

Evelyn picked up a morsel of food with her chopsticks, moving to place it in Alexander's bowl. "Here, have some more," she said kindly.

"Wait!" Cassandra's voice cut through the air, sharp and sudden.