Chapter 119

“This’s my business!” she declared.

Her pride and stubbornness prevailed, refusing to undergo another judgment, scorn, or doubt.

Lucius’s face grew stern as he questioned, “You can refuse, but do you think I can’t discover the truth?”

“Suit yourself!” Violet retorted, her eyes brimming with tears, reflecting her frustration and hurt.

She silently exited the car, unconcerned about Lucius.

Lucius observed her departure with a narrowed gaze That evening, he called George into his room and ordered, “Investigate the situation between. Violet and her family.”

“Yes, Master Lucius,” George acknowledged, preparing to leave.

“Actually, forget it,” Lucius interrupted. “Hire a reputable detective agency for this task.”

He doubted George’s investigative skills.

Embarrassed, George nodded. He admitted his mistake and allowed Violet to pass for Agatha, even though the ruse had been effective.

“Understood,” he agreed eventually.

It was the day for them to return to the country.

Violet packed her belongings. Aside from her salary, Lucius had also given her a gown and shoes. She debated whether she should return these items to him.

She was conflicted, torn between the desire to return them and the sentiment of keeping them as a keepsake. Her heart was filled with mixed emotions as she contemplated the possibility of parting ways with Lucius once more.

“Violet, remember, you and Lucius are from different worlds,” she reminded herself, trying to dampen her feelings.

She took the gift box to Lucius’s room before boarding the plane. Entering his room, she found him halfway through changing. His shirt was undone, revealing his bronzed skin and sculpted waist.

+15 BONOS He was fastening his cuff links, and each diamond was shining brilliantly. Their value could easily sustain an ordinary person for a lifetime.

Violet found herself captivated by the sight of his cuff links, momentarily forgetting that it was inappropriate to watch someone dress.

“Do you need something?” Lucius asked.

He wasn’t bothered by her gaze, seemingly accustomed to such situations given his history with numerous women.

Violet remembered their differences. She turned away and said, “I’ll wait for you to finish getting dressed.”

The rustling noise of garments and Lucius’s laugh came from behind her.

“Are you shy?” he teased. “There’s nothing here that you haven’t seen before.”

Indeed, they had seen each other in far less time.

Blushing, Violet placed the gift box on the table and said, “I’ve brought your things here. I’m leaving.”

She dashed away as if fleeing.

As she walked away, Lucius’s previously narrowed eyes relaxed, his eyes reflecting a deep.

contemplative look.

During the return flight, Violet found herself seated beside Lucius once more.

George came over, and asked, “Master Lucius, where to?”

“To the Imperial Palace.” Lucius answered.

She realized that this meant an additional journey from the Imperial Palace to her home.

“Could we possibly stop at Balaka City first?” Violet asked quietly.

George remained silent and looked at Lucius, awaiting further direction. Lucius motioned for George to leave them alone.

Alone with Violet, Lucius said firmly. “Come back to the Imperial Palace with me.”

His tone was decisive and authoritative, as it always was.

Violet firmly declined, “No, I need to go home.”

She didn’t want to get any closer to him. She didn’t want to complicate her life by falling in love Fortunately, she still had the option of taking a step back.

+15 BONGS “Go home? Where to? If I recall correctly, your father disowned you,” Lucius pointed out bluntly.

Lucius’s frank statements left Violet looking pale and obviously shaken. “That’s…my own business!”

Violet was now certain he had overheard Sydney’s claims the night before. She must appear despicable in his eyes.

Lucius’s expression was grim. He had never before lowered himself enough to invite a woman to stay with him. Nonetheless, this woman continued to push him away.

His pride told him he should let go of this unappreciative woman, but his competitive nature wouldn’t let him.

Lucius was the ruler of the Imperial Palace, and he was used to getting his way.

He laid down an ultimatum, and stated, “You have one week. You’re coming back with me.

whether you like it or not.”

“Why do you have to be so overbearing?” Violet objected, annoyed with his dominance.

“I’m determined to have it my way! Dare to defy me and see what happens,” he retorted, visibly irritated.

“Lucius, why do this when your heart…” wasn’t with me…?

Violet wanted to express her feelings, but Lucius was Interrupted by a phone call.

Ignoring her, Lucius answered the call, leaving Violet feeling even more disheartened. She chose silence over futile confrontation.

Once Lucius finished his call, he appeared calmer and asked, “What were you about to say?”

“Nothing,” Violet replied.

“Let’s go,” he instructed George over the Intercom, sparing no further glance at Violet. Lucius was once again enraged.