Chapter 414

Chapter 414 Sullivan

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A Rare Family Name

Chloe’s cheeks flushed as she observed Joseph’s serious expression. Hastily, she dove under the

covers and wrapped herself up tightly. Only her clear eyes peered out to express her protest. “Thanks

but no thanks!”

She felt unfairly judged as if she were some sort of hooker.

‘Come on. I’m a woman with integrity, all right?!’

The only time she had compromised her principles was when she had impulsively pursued a

relationship with Jake’s uncle, but that had been a result of a series of misunderstandings.

Sensing her shyness, Joseph leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, offering

reassurance once more. “Don’t worry. I will definitely fulfill your desire tomorrow.”

Chloe remained silent.

Both of them enjoyed a restful sleep, and even Joseph could not resist staying in bed until eleven in the

morning.

Chloe had a peaceful night’s sleep, and her skin glowed today. Her naturally flawless cheeks,

untouched by makeup, were as delicate and smooth as a peeled egg, offering a luscious burst of

freshness with each bite.

She changed out of her pajamas into a well-fitted dress that accentuated her graceful figure. With each

step she took, she exuded elegance and charm, captivating everyone in her presence.

Joseph glanced up at Chloe as she descended the stairs, his gaze intensifying. If it were not for his

impending need to go to the office, he would have been tempted to teach her a lesson for being so

seductive before him.

Seating herself on a dining chair, Chloe picked up a slice of bread and spread some jam on it. She

stole a puzzled glance at Joseph, who stared at her intently. “What’s the matter? Is there something on

my face?”

“I’ll be finished with my work at the office in about three hours, and then I’ll come to pick you up,” he

stated.

“Just because you’re done with your work doesn’t mean I am,” Chloe replied, taking a bite of the bread

coated in tangy, sweet strawberry jam. “Besides, I want to go home.”

Joseph’s eyes narrowed slightly. “I can come to your place.”

He was aware of her current residence, but he also knew that Gabriel would only sell properties that

did not meet his standards to the real estate agency. He could purchase a comfortable villa nearby

instead. Apartments without a yard were inconvenient-giving off

the feeling of a confining birdcage.

“I didn’t invite you to my house.” Chloe blinked, unable to comprehend Joseph’s peculiar train of

thought.

It had only been two days since they had opened up to each other, seeking honesty and dispelling their

doubts. Though their connection was growing, it did not mean they would rush into a rapid

reconciliation.

Chloe wanted to wait for the results of Xavia’s amniocentesis before making any decisions.

Joseph raised his head, his tone drawling out with a touch of arrogance. “Indeed, that’s not your house.

It belongs to Gabe.”

Feeling belittled, Chloe did not feel like engaging in conversation with him and reached for the remote

to turn on the TV. Noah’s face, caught between youth and adulthood, appeared on the screen. The host

asked him to assist in showcasing Exotic Star’s latest jewelry collection, and he responded with a warm

smile, confidently discussing each piece. The shimmering diamond necklace outshone the stage,

captivating the host, who was instantly tempted to make a purchase.

Chloe was not sure if it was just for the show’s effect, but she had to admit that Noah seemed quite

busy. In the background, Joseph caught snippets of the young man’s voice, but he did not look up. He

asked, his tone nonchalant. “What’s your mother’s name?”

The question caught Chloe off guard. When her mother passed away, she was still young and could

not remember much. Whenever her father and stepmother mentioned her mother, it was often

accompanied by a string of profanities. They had never mentioned her name before. The only time

Chloe saw her mother’s name was on her tombstone.

“Luciana Sullivan,” she replied.

Joseph paused for a moment, his gaze deepening. “Sullivan? That’s not a common family

name.”

“Well, according to Benjamin, there are quite a few people with that family name in the town. where my

mother was born.”

“And which town was that?”