Chapter 1

"You're 28 and still not thinking about marriage?"

"It's boring. Not my thing."

"Then what interests you?"

Leonardo Garrett lounged on the leather couch, idly twisting his black rosary beads. "If I have to get married, I'd rather take a vow of celibacy."

"Are you trying to piss me off?"

"If you have nothing else to say, I'm leaving," Leonardo said as he stood. "Try talking less and sleeping more. And don't get too emotional as you age. It might help you live longer."

With that, he walked out without a second thought.

Adrian Garrett trembled with rage. Frustrated, he declared, "I need to find him a partner today!"

...

"Send a bottle of Remy Martin XO to Room 21."

The noise in the bar was so loud that Samantha Newton couldn't hear clearly. Was that one or 21?

She raised her voice to ask, "What's the room number?"

Too preoccupied to respond properly, the woman shot her an irritated look and snapped, "What are you standing around for? Hurry up! The customer needs it urgently. If you're late, it'll be docked from your pay!"

"On it!" Samantha quickly grabbed the bottle and rushed off.

A year ago, the Newton family reunited with their biological daughter, uncovering the truth that Samantha was not their own by blood. After a series of unfortunate events, they kicked her out, leaving her broke and alone.

All the money she earned went toward her living expenses and tuition. Without this job, she would struggle to afford food and continue her education.

The choice was simply between two private rooms. Worst-case scenario, she'd have to make an extra trip. Ultimately, she decided to check Room One first.

Two vigilant bodyguards in black suits stood guard at the entrance. Trying her best not to mind them, she knocked on the door softly. "Excuse me, did you order—"

Samantha barely had time to finish her sentence when the door swung open, and she was yanked inside.

"Hurry up! He'll be here any minute."

"I'm just here to deliver the bottle of—"

The man paid no attention to her protests, pulling her further into the room. He instructed, "The lingerie is on the bed in the next room. Get changed now. No matter what, you need to get this done. Don't worry about the money. I'll compensate you well."

"What?"

"Enough! Just hurry up and get ready!"

Without another word, the man quickly left the private room, leaving Samantha confused and alone. She couldn't understand what was going on. She had only come to deliver a bottle of alcohol.

Thinking it might belong to them, she quietly set the bottle on the table.

The private room was a spacious suite, complete with an outdoor karaoke area and a lavish bedroom inside.

After setting down the bottle, she turned to leave, only to realize that the door had been locked from the outside. Panic set in as she quickly knocked on the door, her nerves growing.

"Hey! Why is the door locked? Open it! Help! How could you shut me in like this? Samantha pounded on the door desperately, but there was no response. "Let me out! Is anyone there?"

In that instant, the gravity of the situation sank in. Shouting was pointless. No one would hear her. Instead, she decided to conserve her energy and focus on finding a way to escape.

Had she been kidnapped? The thought sent a chill down her spine.

She needed help, but there was a problem. Employees were required to surrender their phones at the start of their shifts. With no way to contact anyone, she was completely cut off.

A peculiar fragrance lingered in the room, making her lightheaded. She wasn't sure if it was the cold air from the air conditioner or something else, but she found it a bit difficult to breathe.

Just then, the private room door swung open. Samantha sprang to her feet, desperate to leave. "I'm a server here. You can't lock me in—"

Before she could finish, a tall figure stumbled into the room. As she rushed forward, the man collapsed into her arms.

She estimated that he was nearly six feet five inches tall. His solid, muscular build pressed against her shoulders, sending a dull ache through them. But with his body slumped against her, she couldn't get a clear look at his face.

Samantha eagerly looked at the door. "Hey! I'm still in here! Wait a minute! Let me out first!"

However, the door slammed shut without hesitation, leaving her trapped inside.

She struggled desperately to push the man away, but he was too heavy. She couldn't move at all. Despite his lean appearance, it felt as though he weighed at least 300 to 400 pounds, nearly crushing her under his weight.

"Sir, can you stand on your own?" she asked.

"So hot…" he muttered.

"Perhaps the air conditioning is turned up too high. Please hold on while I contact my colleagues to adjust the temperature."

"You smell amazing…" The man suddenly leaned in, wrapping an arm around her waist and pulling her closer.

Through her clothes, she could feel his intense warmth and the strong rhythm of his heartbeat. It was perfectly in sync with her own racing pulse. She had never been this close to a man before, and the unfamiliarity made her uneasy.

Instinctively, she tried to pull away. "Let go of me!"

With his weight pressing against her, she struggled, throwing them both off balance. They tumbled onto the soft cashmere carpet. It was only then that Samantha finally got a clear look at his face.

Flawless skin. Sharp, refined features. Deep-set eyes framed by strikingly thick eyebrows. He looked as if he had been meticulously sculpted to perfection. A small mole at the corner of his eye added a touch of mystery.

His beauty was unparalleled, unlike anyone Samantha had ever seen. She couldn't help but be mesmerized.

He narrowed his eyes at her and sneered, his awareness seemingly returning. "Are you the woman they hired for me?"

"What are you talking about?"

"How cheap. Selling yourself for money."

Samantha's head throbbed, and she angrily slapped the man, exclaiming, "What nonsense are you talking about?"

His head jerked to the side. When he looked back at her, his eyes were bloodshot. "You dare slap me?"

Samantha felt a flicker of fear at the intensity in his eyes. Pressing her lips together, she stayed silent and prepared to leave. But just as she turned, he suddenly grabbed her wrist and yanked her back.

"Ah!" She lost her balance and stumbled into his arms, his mocking laughter ringing in her ears.

"You're quite good at playing hard to get."

"Leave me alone!"

She struggled to get up, but he only pressed her down more firmly. Her hair brushed against his nose, carrying a subtle, intoxicating scent that only intensified his desire.

"What's that smell?"

Samantha continued to struggle, trying to break free, but he held her tightly, inhaling the fragrance at her neck.

"Love potion?"

"Let me go!" she shouted. "I don't know what you're talking about."

His eyes narrowed as his grip tightened, his rationality slipping away. "Double insurance, huh? Looks like my grandpa really went all out. Well done. You've truly played your part perfectly."

She couldn't help but feel scared. "What are you planning to do?"

He didn't answer. Instead, he gently lowered the mask from her face and pressed his lips against hers. That soft, delicate kiss felt like a slow-acting poison, stealing her senses and drawing her deeper into an intoxicating abyss.

Chapter 2

The following morning, Samantha awoke to a deep, aching pain coursing through her body. She tried to move, only to realize she was firmly restrained.

Who was she? Where was she? What had she been doing?

Those three questions flashed through her mind as her scattered memories slowly pieced themselves back together. Bit by bit, fragments of the previous night resurfaced.

It had been an intense experience. It was undeniably painful, yet with moments of unexpected sweetness. He had been thorough, completely relentless. And for her first time, it felt as though he had pushed her beyond her limits.

She turned her head slightly and caught sight of his strikingly handsome face, one that could easily inspire envy in anyone who saw him. His eyes remained closed. With each steady breath, his long eyelashes quivered ever so gently, evoking a strange, unshakable emotion within her.

She carefully slipped out of his embrace and reached for her club uniform on the floor—a miniskirt, a sleeveless top, and a bow tie. The fabric was slightly loose, a result of his rough handling the night before. She adjusted it as best she could.

Next, she gathered her hair into a neat bun and secured a golden mask over her face. It was the standard uniform of the club.

Then, she tried to open the door, wishing for luck. She needed to escape. To her surprise, the door opened immediately when she pushed it.

The man who had dragged her into the room the night before was now standing outside the door. Seeing her step out, he looked surprised and quickly asked, "Is it done?"

"I… I have to go to work."

Samantha's face burned as memories of the previous night flooded her mind. Embarrassment overwhelmed her, making it impossible to meet his gaze, let alone respond. Panic seized her. Without a second thought, she turned and fled, never once daring to look back.

Simon Moore watched as Samantha hurried away, shaking his head helplessly.

"It's understandable that she didn't succeed, but I'm fair," he muttered. "I'll still pay for the hard work, even if she fails. Why the rush?"

He couldn't be bothered to figure out what was going through her mind. He simply turned and pushed open the door to the private room.

The room was a complete mess. As he stepped inside, Leonardo's suit, trousers, and underwear were scattered across the floor. Most striking of all, a noticeable bloodstain marked the pristine white bedsheet.

Simon was taken aback and rushed to check on Leonardo, who was lying on the bed. "Mr. Garrett, are you alright?"

Still half-asleep, Leonardo was momentarily disoriented. As he slowly opened his eyes, he was met with Simon's face, uncomfortably close. Without hesitation, he frowned and promptly kicked him away.

"Get out!"

Simon quickly got up and checked on Leonardo. "Mr. Garrett, are you injured? That woman actually harmed you while you were sleeping. She must have a death wish!"

Fully awake now, Leonardo's gaze flickered to the bloodstain on the bed. His expression remained calm as he replied, "That's not my blood."

Simon froze. His mind went blank for a moment before a shocking realization dawned on him. "Wait… That belonged to the woman?"

Leonardo remained silent, yet his lack of response said everything.

Simon's suspicion was confirmed. "It actually worked?" he murmured.

"Where is she?" Leonardo asked.

"She just left."

"What?"

Leonardo's expression remained unreadable. He found it hard to believe that she had simply left after their night together. He scoffed. She had treated it as nothing more than a mere transaction.

Simon didn't dare to speculate about Leonardo's thoughts. He couldn't deny that the woman's figure and appearance were exceptional, yet she seemed promiscuous.

He had always believed that Leonardo, known for his restraint, wouldn't be interested in such a woman. Yet, to his surprise, he seemed intrigued.

Still, one thing puzzled Simon. That woman looked like she had experienced many intimate encounters. How could last night be her first sexual experience? It simply didn't add up.

"Get out."

Leonardo's voice snapped Simon back to reality.

Lying beneath the quilt, Leonardo was completely naked. Having worked for him for years, Simon had seen him in formal attire countless times, but this was the first time he had ever seen him without clothing.

"Useless ears might as well be removed."

The warning made Simon recognize the seriousness of the situation. Without hesitation, he turned and rushed out of the private room.

His speed helped save his life. Once the door shut behind him, he breathed a sigh of relief, knowing he was safe.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Moore." A woman in a club uniform approached Simon and said apologetically, "I sincerely apologize. I failed to make it last night. I'm truly sorry."

Simon studied the woman standing before him. She was dressed the same and had the same figure as when she left that morning, yet something about her felt subtly different.

Shaking off the thought, he reasoned it was just his imagination. It wasn't unusual for a woman to change slightly after her first sexual experience. Perhaps she had simply rushed out earlier to freshen up. After all, it had been her first time.

He reassured her, saying, "I know you're inexperienced, and the process might not be perfect, but the outcome was exactly as planned. You did well. Here's the two million dollars I promised you."

He handed her a check and emphasized, "It's important that you keep this matter confidential. Do you understand?"

Layla Hamilton was momentarily taken aback. She hadn't been there the previous day, meaning she had no knowledge of what had happened. Even if she wanted to, she wouldn't have been able to share any details.

Yet, with the two-million-dollar check right in front of her, excitement bubbled within her. There was no reason to refuse. Without hesitation, she took the check and nodded. "I understand."

"Alright. You may leave now."

"Thank you, Mr. Moore." Layla grabbed the check and quickly left.

…

The waiters gathered in the locker room at the end of their shift. As they changed out of their work uniforms, they chatted casually, winding down from the night.

Suddenly, Juliet Clark, the supervisor, stormed in and shouted angrily, "Samantha Newton! Where is she?"

Samantha, who was changing clothes in the corner, raised her hand hesitantly. Perhaps it was guilt weighing on her, but her voice was barely a whisper. "I'm here."

"I asked you to deliver a bottle of alcohol, but it never arrived. Where is it? What happened? I looked for you all night and couldn't find you!" Juliet shouted.

Samantha bit her lip, momentarily at a loss for words.

Juliet was infuriated, believing that Samantha had been deliberately ignoring her. "You just vanished after I sent you away with the alcohol? What were you doing? Slacking off?"

"Juliet, I'm sorry. Something unexpected happened last night—"

"I don't care if it was an accident. The alcohol was never delivered. Your salary of 300 dollars from last night and the 8,500 dollars for the alcohol will be deducted from your pay. If this happens again, don't bother coming back!"

Samantha's face was drained of color. She found herself unable to deny the truth. The alcohol wasn't delivered, and it was also undeniable that she had lost her virginity.

She had been counting on this month's salary to cover her university fees, but that large deduction left her unable to pay.

Overwhelmed by anxiety, she felt numb, even as her nails dug painfully into her flesh. She felt as if her world had shattered. Her vision blurred as her eyes filled with unshed tears.

After Juliet left, Layla stepped into the locker room with a radiant smile, exclaiming, "I made a lot of money today. Supper's on me!"

Chapter 3

When Layla announced in the locker room that she was treating everyone to supper, her colleagues cheered excitedly.

"Layla, you're so generous! Did you meet a big shot?"

"With Layla's charm, wouldn't it be effortless for her to impress someone influential?"

"Thank you, Layla!"

Everyone cheered and hurried to change clothes, joyfully discussing which upscale restaurant they should go to. No one noticed Samantha in the corner or how she was feeling.

Soon, after everyone had left the locker room, Layla finally noticed Samantha in the corner. She walked over and tenderly caressed Samantha's cold face and asked, "Why are you crying?"

Samantha glanced upward, her eyes falling on Layla's beautiful and charming face.

Layla was a close friend Samantha had made at the club. As a newcomer, Samantha had felt lost, and the others seemed indifferent to her struggles. However, Layla had been the only one willing to lend a helping hand.

"I accidentally misplaced a bottle of alcohol yesterday," Samantha admitted. "Because of that, over 8,000 dollars were deducted from my salary this month. Now, I don't have enough to pay for my tuition."

"It's just money. I'll lend it to you," Layla replied.

"But…" She bit her lip, feeling embarrassed at the thought of having to borrow money.

Layla offered a warm smile. "Don't worry about it. I've already transferred the money to you. Pay it back whenever you can. It's not a big deal. Please don't cry. It hurts me to see you sad."

Samantha stared at the notification of receiving 20 thousand dollars on her phone screen, biting her lip to hold back her tears. She had never expected anyone to help her in her lowest moment, yet Layla's remarkable kindness had shown her otherwise.

"Thank you, Layla!" she exclaimed. "I promise to repay you as soon as I earn the money."

"Samantha, what happened to your neck?" Layla frowned. "Why is there a red mark?"

She quickly covered her neck. "I… must've gotten a mosquito bite."

Layla couldn't help but grumble. "That mosquito is so fierce. Let's go eat something delicious later."

"I'm tired. I just want to go home and rest. Is that alright?"

"Of course. Stay safe."

"I will."

After gathering her belongings, Layla said goodbye to Samantha and left elegantly.

Samantha returned to her seat, gathered her things, and got ready to leave. As she approached the club's entrance, she unexpectedly ran into her adoptive father, Matthew Newton.

Matthew was there for a business meeting, smiling as he tried to impress a big shot. However, it appeared he was being turned down.

Samantha averted her gaze, attempting to ignore the situation entirely, and chose a lengthy detour to sneak past them unnoticed. However, before she could escape, Matthew spotted her. She lowered her head further, avoiding eye contact.

"Samantha?" he called, his face twisting in anger. "What's going on? Are you working here? Have you no shame? It's so disgraceful!"

She quickly shook her head to clarify. "No, I only came here to work as a waitress. I didn't do anything else… I…"

She stopped mid-sentence, unable to continue. Remembering the events of last night, she felt guilty and couldn't find the words to explain herself.

Matthew sneered. "Are you so guilty you can't continue? You stole Lily's necklace at home and acted disgracefully outside. We're lucky to have kicked you out of the Newton family. Otherwise, you'd embarrass us all!"

"I didn't steal the necklace. It wasn't me."

"If you didn't take it, how could it possibly have ended up in your pillowcase? Stop lying. It's truly appalling!"

Samantha saw the unmistakable disgust in Matthew's eyes, and it felt like a dagger piercing her heart, leaving her to bleed silently.

She had once been part of a loving family, but everything changed the day Matthew unexpectedly brought a young woman home. He revealed that there had been a mix-up at birth. Samantha was never truly a Newton.

The young woman revealed that she had been an orphan since childhood, losing her mother in elementary school and never knowing her father. Samantha had grown up believing she belonged, yet she was suddenly cast aside as an outsider, living under someone else's roof.

The young woman who took her place was Liliana Johnson, a rising star in the entertainment industry. She was beautiful, well-mannered, and always a delight to those around her.

The love Samantha had once received from her parents swiftly shifted to Liliana, leaving her neglected and forgotten. With nowhere else to go, Samantha could only retreat into the shadows, silently watching the happiness that was no longer hers.

Then one day, Liliana's necklace went missing. After a lengthy search, it was ultimately hidden in Samantha's pillowcase. As she gazed into the disappointed eyes of the Newtons, she felt utterly powerless to justify her actions.

Matthew was so frustrated and kicked her out of the Newton family. And just like that, Samantha truly became an orphan with no one left to rely on.

"I didn't take it," Samantha insisted.

"Mr. Garrett is coming through. Please clear the way!" The club's security guards swiftly moved in, dispersing the crowd obstructing the entrance and interrupting Matthew's lecture.

Matthew no longer paid attention to Samantha. Instead, he was eagerly looking inside the club. "Mr. Garrett is here too? Why am I only hearing about this now? I shouldn't be begging Mr. Zain Quigley. I should've gone straight to Mr. Garrett."

Leonardo stepped out of the elevator, flanked by a group of bodyguards dressed in black. A crowd had gathered, eager to see the well-known figure in Jedo. As the leading contender among the heirs of the prestigious Garrett family in Jedo, he commanded everyone's attention.

Rumors surrounded him. Some claimed that Leonardo had little interest in women, presenting himself as distant and abstinent. Others even speculate that he had taken a vow of celibacy.

It was hard to believe that a man constantly surrounded by beauty could remain entirely unaffected. Getting close to him seemed nearly impossible, as he appeared to have no discernible weaknesses.

As he exited the elevator, his towering six-foot-two frame instantly drew the crowd's attention. His striking good looks were intensified by a captivating blend of intensity and detachment. A small mole at the corner of his eye added a hint of allure, further enhancing his enigmatic charm.

The women in the crowd couldn't contain their admiration and began to praise him softly.

"He's so handsome!"

"I can't believe how incredibly charming Mr. Garrett is!"

"He's good-looking, but he seems hard to seduce. I have a feeling he might not be interested in women at all."

"Stop guessing. Don't try anything recklessly," someone warned. "Women who've tried seducing Mr. Garrett… Well, let's just say it didn't end well for them."

"Tsk. That's terrifying. I guess I can only admire him from a distance."

Samantha glanced in that direction as well. Coincidentally, she locked eyes with Leonardo's captivating gaze.

Her breath caught. The man from last night was none other than Leonard, the very person everyone had been talking about. She could hardly wrap her mind around it.

After hearing the whispers around her, she quickly averted her gaze and chose to distance herself from the trouble. Women who attempted to seduce him rarely met a good end, so she made up her mind to steer clear of him from now on.

With everything she was going through, all she wanted was to survive.

As Simon watched Leonardo stop, he followed his gaze. Besides a group of infatuated women and some eager men wanting to meet Leonardo, he didn't notice anyone significant.

"Mr. Garrett, what are you looking at?" he asked.

"There's someone over there who looks familiar."

Chapter 4

Simon scanned the crowd more intently. He had worked for Leonardo for years and recognized most of the people he knew, but he saw no familiar faces.

"Are you sure?" he asked. "Why don't I see anyone I know?"

"Let's go," Leonardo ordered.

"What?"

Simon remained puzzled about whom Leonardo had actually seen. However, as soon as Leonardo started walking away, he promptly followed him.

As Leonardo was about to leave, Matthew attempted to push past the bodyguards to give him his business card. "Mr. Garrett, my company runs a luggage and bags business with our own designers. Are you available to have a drink or meal with me to discuss a potential collaboration?"

Leonardo brushed past him without so much as a glance. Matthew wanted to follow, but Simon stopped him. "Just hand me the business card. I'll reach out to you on Mr. Garrett's behalf if needed."

"Thank you! Thank you so much!" Matthew exclaimed.

Simon accepted the business card and exchanged a glance with the bodyguard beside him, who promptly pulled Matthew away. As they left the club, Simon tossed the business card into a trash can in front of everyone.

Matthew forced a strained smile, but his expression couldn't hide his dissatisfaction.

…

The following evening at 7 o'clock, Samantha enjoyed dinner at home before heading to work early. Upon arriving in the locker room, she overheard a few colleagues deep in conversation.

"Have you heard the news? A group of bodyguards dressed in black came to pick her up today. Did she offend someone?"

"I saw a long line of luxury cars outside. They were definitely someone influential."

"I saw the car's logo. It looks like it belongs to the Garrett family."

"Wait, she offended the Garretts? She's doomed. She might not be able to return after this."

Xenia Scott warned, "Be careful at work. Don't get involved with anyone. If you ask me, Layla is just a gold digger. She'd do anything for money. Now, she's finally facing the consequences of her actions."

She and Layla had been working at the club for quite some time, but their relationship was far from amicable. Given their history, it was no surprise that Xenia had nothing kind to say about Layla. Instead, she gloated over her misfortune.

Others rubbed their chests in fear. "That's really scary. I need to be more careful next time."

Samantha overheard the conversation and glanced around the locker room. Indeed, Layla was nowhere to be seen. She wondered if Layla was in trouble. Without hesitation, Samantha quickly texted her.

Samantha: "Layla, who took you? Are you safe? Do you need me to contact the police?"

She felt utterly helpless, unsure of whom to turn to for assistance. She wasn't so naive as to think she could rescue Layla on her own. As she waited anxiously, Layla finally responded to her message.

Layla: "No, I'm perfectly fine now. I must have had incredible luck. It feels like I've hit the jackpot and am truly living my best life."

Then, she sent a picture and a video to Samantha. The photo showed Layla on a luxurious bed, with a large floor-to-ceiling window and a lush garden outside. The video highlighted the room's decorations.

Layla: "I can hardly believe my luck! This is Leonardo Garrett's house. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm now a wealthy woman!"

Samantha was momentarily taken aback by the mention of Leonardo. His striking yet distant demeanor flashed through her mind involuntarily.

She contemplated the possibility that Layla and Leonardo might actually be a couple. After reflecting on her encounter with Leonardo the previous night, she couldn't help but feel ashamed and guilty.

A man who cheated so easily was certainly not a good man.

Samantha couldn't resist pointing out. "Layla, didn't you mention before that wealthy club-goers aren't exactly the best company? I think I spotted Leonardo at the club just yesterday…"

Layla: "It's unavoidable for men to cheat. As long as they can support me financially, it doesn't matter to me."

Realizing her efforts to convince Layla were futile, Samantha decided to give up. To avoid hurting her, she chose to bury the memories of last night and texted, "Layla, I wish you happiness."

Layla: "I'll bring you for a visit in a few days. It's incredibly luxurious!"

At first, Samantha considered agreeing, but the thought of Leonardo made her hesitate.

The private room was dimly lit that night, and they were caught up in the moment. She wasn't sure if Leonardo even remembered her. She didn't want to risk facing him. The last thing she wanted was to invite trouble into her life.

Samantha: "I've been scheduled to work a lot lately, so I might not have any free time."

Layla: "Don't worry. I'll invite you to come over and hang out once you have an off day."

Samantha couldn't find the words to decline. Instead, she simply smiled and expressed her gratitude. Yet, knowing that Layla was doing well brought her a sense of relief.

Life continued in its familiar rhythm, and work proceeded as usual. Although it was challenging, she found solace in the fact that she could still earn a living.

The following day, Layla arrived at the club to tender her resignation. She was dressed elegantly, like a wealthy socialite, making the other waitresses envious.

Before leaving, Layla gifted Samantha a branded white bag to celebrate the start of the semester. Initially, Samantha was reluctant to accept it, but Layla firmly insisted.

Afterward, Layla left in a Rolls-Royce while her colleagues watched enviously from the window.

"We're all working here. Why is she the only one lucky enough to be noticed by a rich guy?"

"She's really fortunate to be stepping into the world of the wealthy."

Xenia scoffed. "The man she's with is probably some bald old guy. It's so disgusting. What's there to envy?"

Overwhelmed by jealousy at Layla's sudden wealth, she turned and exited the locker room to light a cigarette while the others continued their conversation.

"She's undeniably attractive and one of the best-looking in our club."

"But with everyone wearing masks, how much can they actually see?"

Samantha couldn't help thinking of Leonardo again. His demeanor was distant yet enchanting, disciplined yet unable to mask his longing. A twinge of envy crept into her heart, but she quickly stifled it.

She reminded herself that it was unjust to covet Layla's happiness. She had to move on and keep the past a secret.

Chapter 5

Samantha finally had a day off and was enjoying some much-needed rest at home when her phone rang. It was Layla on the line.

"Samantha! Are you off today?" she asked.

Half-asleep, Samantha groggily responded, "Yeah."

"Come over and hang out! Let me show you around."

"Thanks. But I don't want to bother you."

"It's fine. I'm the only one here in the villa. Mr. Garrett is very busy. He's never been here, so you don't have to worry."

Samantha found herself somewhat swayed by this information. Without Leonard around, she would feel more at ease.

Before she could respond, Layla quickly declared, "That's settled then! I'll have someone pick you up right away!"

Samantha found it hard to decline Layla's enthusiastic invitation. Ultimately, Layla arranged for a chauffeur to personally pick her up and take her to the villa.

The villa was designed in a sleek modern style, featuring charming gazebos, intricate pathways, and a lake, creating a peaceful and elegant atmosphere.

The maid had thoughtfully prepared coffee and snacks in one of the gazebos. After their stroll, they could relax there, watching ornamental carp swim in the clear lake while enjoying their coffee.

The leisurely life was truly enviable.

Layla had scheduled an appointment for a rejuvenating facial and initially hoped to bring Samantha along. However, Samantha wasn't fond of the idea. Thus, Layla could only go alone.

"If you wish to eat or drink anything, just let the maids know. If you find yourself feeling bored, feel free to take a walk. But please avoid the backyard. There's a fierce dog there."

"Alright."

Samantha was bored and tossing food to the well-fed carp in the gazebo, each one plump from frequent feedings. After finishing the feeding, she felt aimless and decided to walk around. Unexpectedly, a merle Border Collie dashed toward her.

She instinctively stepped back, but the Border Collie stopped at her feet and sniffed around her. She froze instantly, too afraid to move.

"Woof! Woof!" The Border Collie circled around, barked at her, then rubbed its head against her legs.

"Huh?" She expected the dog to be aggressive, but it was actually well-behaved.

As the Border Collie stayed near her, Samantha's fear melted away. She crouched down and began to stroke the dog's irresistibly soft and fluffy coat, reveling in the delightful sensation.

She glanced toward the backyard. Though the area was close to it, she was sure it didn't belong there. This dog seemed calm and well-mannered, nothing like the fierce one Layla had mentioned. Feeling at ease, she petted it confidently.

"Buddy, what's your name?"

"Woof!"

"You're so beautiful."

"Woof!"

"Buddy, how about a handshake?"

To her surprise, the dog lifted its paw. Samantha reached out and shook it, unable to contain her admiration for the Border Collie's remarkable intelligence.

"Who gave you permission to touch it?"

The chilling voice shattered the cozy moment between Samantha and the dog. It startled her so profoundly that she instinctively pulled back her hand and turned around.

A man stepped forward against the light, the sunlight outlining his tall, slender frame in a striking silhouette. Though his features remained partially obscured, his magnetic presence kept her eyes locked on him.

"I'm sorry," Samantha said, rising to her feet. It was only then that she got a clear view of him. It was Leonardo.

Layla mentioned that she had never seen him around before. She wondered what could have brought him back so unexpectedly. Her beautiful face drained of color, and she nervously bit her lip before turning away. She was determined to avoid making eye contact.

"Did I scold you? You seem quite distressed."

"No." Samantha's response was unconvincing. It was clear that he was reprimanding her, yet she didn't dare to admit it.

"Did you wash your hands before petting the dog?" Leonardo asked, trying to explain his earlier words. "Stone is old and easily gets sick."

"I washed my hands before drinking coffee," she replied with a hint of guilt, then glanced at him. "Does that count?"

Leonardo found her adorable expression amusing. He softened his voice. "Wash them again."

"Got it. I'll wash my hands right away."

Samantha promptly rushed to wash her hands, diligently scrubbing them with soap before returning.

Leonardo lounged casually on the lawn, one leg bent while the other stretched out. He tossed a ball back and forth, playing with Stone.

Stone had been obedient until Samantha's arrival. The moment it spotted her, it abandoned Leonardo without hesitation, dashing toward her. It jumped up, lifting its head eagerly, waiting for a pat.

Leonardo was speechless.

Samantha knelt beside Stone, softly running her fingers through his soft fur. Its excitement was simply irresistible.

Suddenly, Stone turned and bounded back toward Leonardo. He smiled and remarked, "Ah, so you finally remember me!"

Stone leaped in front of Leonardo, urging him to throw the ball. Without hesitation, Leonardo threw it, and Stone jumped up and caught it flawlessly.

Samantha cheered enthusiastically beside them. "Good job, buddy!"

Leonardo smirked, certain Stone would return the ball to him. However, it made a smooth turn and trotted straight to Samantha without so much as a backward glance. In the end, it delivered the ball to her instead.

Leonardo was taken aback, feeling utterly foolish at that moment.

Samantha felt slightly awkward after receiving the ball. The dog's owner was still present, and the situation made it appear as though she was taking his place. She turned to Leonardo, silently asking for permission.

Leonardo nodded. "Just throw it like I did."

Samantha mimicked his actions and tossed the ball. Stone caught it effortlessly each time, even displaying various techniques. It seemed to show off his catching skills like a cocky kid.

Leonardo commented, "Stone usually keeps its distance from strangers, but it seems to stick close to you."

Samantha casually ran her fingers through Stone's fur, and it beamed with joy, even leaning in closer to her. It hardly seemed like a shy dog at all. "Oh? It seems pretty friendly to me."

Leonardo sat nearby, watching the scene with a soft gaze. The usual stress from work seemed to melt away at this moment, leaving him feeling refreshed and at peace.

At first, he had been annoyed that Adrian had brought the woman to stay at his villa, which was why he had avoided visiting. But today, as he happened to pass by, he decided to stop in to see Stone and unexpectedly ran into her.

He felt that it seemed acceptable to have her in his life.

Just as this thought crossed his mind, a woman in a sexy suspender dress and delicate makeup appeared on the lawn. Her dress swayed in the breeze, making her look enchanting.

"Mr. Garrett, you're back!"

Layla hurried over from afar and crouched beside Leonardo, gently taking hold of his arm. "I was busy a moment ago and couldn't greet you right away. You're not upset with me, are you?"

Leonardo frowned, his displeasure evident. He pulled Layla's hand off his arm in disgust. "Who are you?"

"I'm Layla Hamilton."

Leonardo recognized the name. She was the woman Adrian had brought home for him. "Then, who is she?"

Layla looked at Samantha and explained with a smile, "She is a friend I invited over for a visit."