Chapter 911



“Where’s Jake?” she demanded. “I need to see him right now.”

Leo glanced at Jake, who was nursing a drink. He decided not to tell Lacey the truth.

“Mr. Reeves is busy with some important matters. Since you’re no longer in danger, please don’t disturb him,” he said evasively.

Lacey’s blood boiled. “Leo, what do you mean I’m disturbing Mr. Reeves? I’m practically his most trusted confidante!” she retorted, her voice laced with indignation.

Leo’s brow furrowed in displeasure. From the moment he’d started working for Jake, he had harbored a distinct dislike for Lacey as he found her demeanor to be condescending and arrogant. Plus, he could see right through her facade of superiority. More importantly, Jake hadn’t treated Lacey differently, always maintaining a polite demeanor.

Leo knew Jake had softened his demeanor around Lacey only because of the life-saving favor. However, Lacey had misinterpreted Jake’s gratitude as romantic interest and genuinely believed she held a special place in his affections.

Right now, Leo could tell Jake was clearly in a foul mood and wasn’t in the mood to entertain visitors. Lacey’s shrill tone caused Leo’s expression to harden.

“I said Mr. Reeves doesn’t want to be disturbed,” he stated firmly. “Miss Payne, if you continue to cause a scene, you’ll only anger Mr. Reeves.”

Lacey was well aware of Jake’s temperament. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn’t have persisted, but today was different. She desperately needed reassurance, a confirmation that she held some significance in Jake’s life. Suppressing her frustration, Lacey forced a note of panic into her voice.

“I wouldn’t insist if it wasn’t important. I’m facing a difficult situation, and it’s urgent. I need to see Jake immediately,” she pleaded.

Leo massaged his temples, feeling a surge of exasperation.

“Miss Payne, Mr. Reeves had instructed me to handle any issues you might encounter. Why don’t you explain the situation to me? Mr. Reeves is preoccupied with other matters.”

Lacey bit back a curse, her jaw clenching in frustration.

“Leo, if you don’t let me see Jake, I’ll hurt myself. You know I’ll do it.”

Leo winced. Lacey had never acted like this before. Maybe she really did have something important to tell Jake.

Just then, Jake spotted Leo and beckoned him over.

“Come here.”

Leo approached, noticing Jake’s flushed cheeks and red-rimmed eyes.

“Mr. Reeves, you’ve had quite a bit to drink already. Maybe you should slow down,” Leo said, his voice laced with concern.

Jake’s head was swimming, but he was still clear-headed enough to ask, “What does Lacey want?”

Leo hesitated.

“I’m not sure, but…”

Jake rubbed his temples, trying to ease the pounding in his head.

“I’m feeling better now. If it’s important, let her come over. Lacey doesn’t usually act like this. Maybe something’s wrong.”

Leo nodded and called Lacey back.

When Leo returned to Jake’s side, his expression was complex.

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