Chapter: 268

Phillip didn't reply, simply drove into the villa's garage and went inside.

Sean stepped out, opened the door for Norah, and offered his hand.

“Now that you're here, why not come in for a bit?"

Norah took a deep breath, managing a smile. “It's late, and it doesn't seem right for a man and a woman to be alone together at this hour."

"I'm just asking you in for a chitchat. Are you thinking there's something more, Norah?"

Sean had a slight smile in his voice, making Norah feel he found her overly sensitive. She replied, "No, not that way. I just don't feel like having a chitchat with you."

His eyes turned serious, his tone filled with warning. "Norah..."

Hearing this, she gave in.

Norah walked with Sean into the villa. Once inside, they were left alone as the servants and Phillip were sent away.

Choosing a spot on the couch far from Sean, Norah watched him fetch a soft drink for her.

"Here. Drink it slowly."

"Thanks," Norah said with formality, yet her words seemed to widen the gap between them, leaving Sean feeling cold.

Even though they had been getting along better lately, this moment felt like a step back to the tension that followed their last disagreement.

“Norah, what do you see in Kason? Tonight was risky. Without me or the police, do you realize what might have happened?" Sean was earnest. "No matter what you think of him, your safety comes first."

Norah had always taken on risky jobs in dangerous places. She was brave enough to venture out on her own and had faced challenges far more daunting than her dealings with the Fox Alliance. Truth be told, she wasn't scared.

Yet, Sean's words brought back memories of her solo missions and the indifferent remarks from her organization's leader upon her return.

Sean was the first to say her safety mattered most, even if it seemed minor to him.

"I know." Holding the soft drink, Norah gently took a sip. She tasted the transition from bitter to sweet, enjoying the lasting aroma. "This is some good drink!"

Her voice was always calm, showing little emotion. Sean was used to this, but he couldn't help feeling a slight pain in his heart, as if ants were softly biting him.

After the night's events, Norah looked a bit unkempt. Loose hairs stuck to her forehead, damp with sweat, and her skin looked less vibrant than usual.

Sean had planned to have Norah stay a bit longer but changed his mind when noticing she was eager to leave. Taking a sip, he mentioned, "I'll drive you back after you finish the soft drink."

Norah felt relieved inside. Sean might not have realized how much his mere presence affected her. Just his being here brought back memories of what had occurred days before. Whispers of intimacy and warm breaths haunted her dreams on many nights.

A faint blush colored her cheeks as she took another sip of the soft drink. "This is really good."

Norah held the drink, shaking it a bit and admiring its clear, green hue.