Chapter 58

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I waited for Freen to finish her work, and eventually, we headed home. She insisted I take a shower first and handed me a dress she'd prepared for the evening. It was clear she wouldn't have gone through all that trouble if she planned to postpone our plans.

"Freshen up while I cook dinner," she said with a smile, pointing me towards the bathroom.

Despite my desire to help, Freen insisted I let her handle everything. I figured I'd only spoil her surprise if I kept hovering around.

As I sank into the tub, I found the water incredibly relaxing. The addition of scented candles, a detail I hadn't known about Freen's bathing habits, made the atmosphere even more soothing.

After dressing up and applying a light touch of makeup, I made my way to the kitchen. Freen wasn't there, so I peeked into the dining area and spotted her lighting a cake. I couldn't help but chuckle at the unexpected treat. What was going on? Why all the effort to surprise me?

"Hey," I greeted her with a smile.

Freen quickly hid the lighter behind her back, a hint of surprise in her eyes. "Didn't expect you to finish so soon," she admitted with a chuckle.

"What's the occasion?" I inquired, making my way over to her. "Why all this?"

"Nothing special," she replied. "I don't need an occasion to spoil you like this." Freen pulled out a chair for me before taking her own seat.

"I thought maybe this was an apology for being jealous these past few days," I teased, tilting my head. "Wasn't it?"

"Nah, my jealousy was justified," she retorted, opening a bottle of wine and pouring us both a glass. "Try this. It's amazing."

I eagerly sampled the wine, finding its rich, velvety flavor quite delightful. "What's this?" I asked, puzzled. "It tastes different."

"It's Velvet Reserve Merlot," Freen explained, taking a sip herself. "William sent it over for you to try. Said it's in case you wanted a taste."

"You're still in touch with him?" I inquired, setting down my glass.

"Yeah, thought you might not stay here long. Figured he could keep an eye on you," she said, raising an eyebrow and motioning for me to start eating.

I decided to save further questions for later. After dinner, Freen insisted on handling the cleanup herself. It seemed she was determined to pamper me tonight, and I couldn't help but feel touched by her effort.

"Finished?" I asked as I saw her drying her hands with a towel.

Freen nodded slowly and approached me. "Why, got something in mind?"

"Nothing, just want to be by your side," I replied with a smile.

Rolling her eyes, Freen took my hand and kissed it. "I'll be here, even if you don't ask."

"Then how about we watch a horror movie?" I suggested. "Or if you prefer, a romance." I flashed her a playful grin, and she chuckled.

"Fine, I'll set up the TV," Freen agreed, leading me back to her room. As she searched for the remote, I settled onto the bed. "What do you feel like watching?"

"Anything," I replied, wrapping myself in a blanket as I watched her scroll through the options. "That one!" I exclaimed, pointing to the movie "Call Me By Your Name".

Freen started the movie, joining me on the bed. We were engrossed in the film when her phone rang, prompting her to excuse herself to answer it. I didn't pry into why she had to leave, assuming she didn't want to disturb me while on the phone. Sometimes I tend to overthink things.

When I noticed Freen standing in the living room, gazing out the window, I sensed something was amiss.

"Yes, sir, I'm discussing the investment in Ms. Armstrong's brother's company," Freen spoke into the phone, running her fingers through her hair as she paced. "He sent her there." After a brief pause, she continued, "No, sir, I wouldn't do that to your son."

It dawned on me what they were discussing. Freen must have been talking to the chairman about my unexpected visit. Given our lack of familial ties, she couldn't pass me off as a relative, and admitting I was just a friend might make her seem negligent.

"He didn't know?" I interjected as Freen ended the call.

Freen shook her head. "If he finds out I was the reason the marriage was called off, he'll be furious. I can't afford to upset him. I owe him too much."

Understanding washed over me. "So, I can't visit you there anymore?" I asked, seeking clarification.

"No," Freen replied, stepping closer and taking my hand. "It's not that. You can still go and pretend Richie sent you. He's our investor. They'll understand."

"So, you're not allowed to have a relationship?" I pressed, averting my gaze. "Not publicly?"

"Not for now. I'm still trying to clear my name. I don't want the media hounding me with questions or my name splashed across headlines again. After what Heng did for me, I can't afford to let his family down," Freen explained, biting her lip. "I'll resign soon, so I won't have to hide you."

"Freen, I'm not your girlfriend," I reminded her gently. "You can keep your job. We're not official. You didn't betray him."

"It's still a form of cheating, Becky. I did betray him, and I don't want to hide you," she insisted.

I nodded in understanding. Freen was deeply in love with me, but I didn't want to jeopardize her future or undo all the progress she'd made. She'd only recently cleared her name from a scandal, and having me in her life might invite more trouble.

"I'm going home," I said with a bitter smile, pulling away from her.

"Why?" Freen's brows furrowed in confusion. "Aren't we supposed to watch a movie?"

"Freen, you're a hot topic right now. There could be people spying on you, looking for any opportunity to bring you down," I explained with a sigh, withdrawing my hand. "I don't want to be the reason for your downfall. Let's keep a low profile."

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