“I’ll make each and every one of you suffer—to the point where death is preferable!” Zuko’s words echoed in the
air as he turned away, ignoring her completely.
It took Gia a long time to regain her composure after Zuko’s departure. The atmosphere still felt heavy, as if frozen
in time.
Zuko’s presence had both shocked and unsettled her, stirring an unfamiliar feeling in her heart. Why did such an
exceptional man only have eyes for Lina?
Compared to the privileged heirs she encountered at school, Zuko exuded composure, wisdom, and dominance. He
possessed both looks and a prestigious background. Thus, why did he choose Lina over everyone else? What did
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtthat wretched woman have that she didn’t?
Gia clenched her fists, her jealousy and hatred burning in her eyes as she struggled to make her way back to the
hotel lobby. She spotted Heidi approaching from a distance, likely returning from attending to Violet at the hospital.
The exhaustion evident in Heidi’s demeanor ignited a flicker of opportunity in Gia’s eyes. She hurriedly caught up
with her.
“Ms. Lister!” Gia intercepted Heidi. “I have something to tell you privately!”
…
As Zuko entered the room with their supper, Lina emerged from the bathroom. Her long, beautiful hair was still
damp, carrying a delicate fragrance as she passed by him. Lina’s petite figure, adorned in a loose cotton
nightgown, stirred endless fantasies about the alluring charm hidden beneath the fabric.
Zuko’s ears burned, and his breath quickened slightly. His gaze fell upon the couch where he had been sleeping for
the past two nights. Nearly two weeks remained before Lina could return to Jangasas. Did he have to endure
another dozen days?
He was a man of robust physical and mental health…
Zuko took several deep breaths, desperately suppressing his impulsive thoughts.
Lina’s soft and sweet voice broke through his turmoil. “What’s the matter with you?”
Forcing a smile, he felt Lina’s touch as she reached out to caress his face. “Why do you feel so warm? Are you
feeling unwell?”
“No…” Zuko’s heart was already in disarray. Every touch from her felt like a test of his self-restraint.
“This is for you.” He placed the paper bag in his hand on the table.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmInside were fragrant sweet cakes commonly found in the night markets of Southeast Aciatic.
Lina’s stomach growled with hunger, and her eyes lit up at the sight of the sweet cakes. She kissed his cheek and
eagerly opened the bag like an excited kitten.
Unaware of the inner turmoil he was experiencing, Lina savored her food, blissfully unaware that the man beside
her desired more than just the cakes…
Zuko bit his lip, the slight pain helping him maintain some semblance of clarity.
“Lina,” he called out hoarsely.
Lina paused, her cheeks still puffed from the food, and raised her bright eyes. “What’s wrong?”
“I… I think I should find another place to stay,” he said, his voice trembling. “After all…”
“Huh?” Lina’s surprise was evident. “Why?”