With

Chapter 43

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“Sure!” Alicia gladly agreed.

On the way, she whispered, “Looks like the scrooge is treating you quite well. His expression changed dramatically when you fell just now.”

“He’s just worried about my belly. Do you think he really cares about me?” Calla replied, though she couldn’t deny the warmth she felt inside.

“Come on. Which of the women here wouldn’t want that thing in your belly? Don’t act innocent. By the way, the way the scrooge held you was so gallant–like a knight protecting a princess.” Alicia clasped her hands together, and her eyes betrayed obvious envy.

Calla pondered whether her encounter with Mercer was a blessing or a curse. Having him by her side gave her a sense of security, just like earlier when she felt like a fully protected princess.

Throughout the years, she had always taken on the role of protector for her mother and sister. Even during her relationship with Tim, she was the one taking care of him. She had never experienced the feeling of being protected and cared for by someone else.

As the dinner party began to wind down, Mercer’s secretary, Ally, suddenly appeared before Calla.

“Ms. Sherman, I’m a little timid, and the VIP rooms are quite spacious. If you don’t mind, could you keep me company tonight?” The usually assertive Ally looked a little shy, but she seemed like she wouldn’t take no for an answer.

“Oh, sure.” Though Calla found Ally’s request somewhat odd, she politely accepted it.

“Shall we go get your luggage now?” Ally asked with a smile.

“Sure.” Calla nodded.

Once they reached the room, Ally waited at the door while Calla went in to pack her things.

Alicia pulled Calla aside and whispered, “This seems fishy, doesn’t it?”

“What do you mean?” Calla frowned.

Alicia smirked. “Is the scrooge having trouble sleeping alone, so he wants you to share his bed?”

“Ugh, stop it! You’re overthinking this.” Calla nudged her,

“I bet I’m right. You’ll see.” Alicia looked confident.

With her belongings packed, Calla said to Alicia, “I’ll give you an update later.” Then, she grabbed her luggage and followed Ally out.

Upon entering the VIP wing, Calla was taken aback by the scene before her.

Under the soft moonlight, a vast field of tulips swayed gently in the breeze. Calla caught a hint of a faint floral fragrance.

Nearby, magnolia trees stood tall and pristine, casting an ethereal atmosphere over the surroundings. The presence of hot springs and a swimming pool added to the serene ambiance.

Behind the pool and hot springs stood several exquisite villas, one of which Ally led Calla into.

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Inside, the couldn’t help but look around and marvel at the opulence of the wealthy. Even the decorations were Intricately crafted.

a was lavishly decorated. Calla had never stayed in such a grand villa before, so she

Ally guided Calla upstairs into a spacious bedroom, where an oversized leather bed dominated the space. Crystal chandeliers illuminated a navy–blue embroidered carpet, adding to the grandeur.

“Is this… your room?” Calla asked tentatively.

Why weren’t there two single beds in the room? Was she supposed to sleep with Ally in one big bed? It felt

a little strange.

“No, this is Mr. Garland’s room,” Ally replied promptly.

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