Old Harris gave a bitter smile, watching his foolish son's expression turn to shock. Now he is increasingly unsure of the future of the Harris family in Paul's hand. And he was too tired to meddle with the company anymore.
"I warned you before I transferred Harris Corp to you never to offend the Top Five Families of this country. But you still dared to offend the Riley Family. Have you forgotten they are at the top of the chain?" he chided.
Paul's hands clenched tightly in frustration, feeling incredibly disappointed in himself.
"I'm sorry," Paul said, his voice laced with remorse. "My judgment was clouded because I couldn't bear to see Ella sad. I..." He started blaming his daughter.
Old Harris clicked his tongue disapprovingly. "You spoil her too much!" he sighed deeply before continuing, "I know you have another child. I don't need that useless Ella who caused our company to suffer. Bring your son back to the Harris Family. I don't mind that his mother is just your mistress!"
Paul's eyes widened in shock at the mention of his illegitimate son. He said, "Father, how did you find out about my son?" he asked, surprised that his secret had been discovered.
"You think I'm as foolish as you?" Old Harris shook his head, exhausted after talking to his stupid son. "You may go now. I don't want to talk to you anymore. And I won't involve myself in the company's affairs. I'm too old to be bothered with such things. Take care of yourself!" he said with finality.
Old Harris stood up from his chair and left the study, leaving his son frozen in his seat.
Paul felt mixed emotions — anger, regret, resentment, and disappointment — as he watched his father leave the room without another word. Clearly, his father had no intention of helping him out of this mess. He was on his own.
He took a deep breath, feeling a sense of determination wash over him. He knew that he had to act fast and find a way to salvage the situation. With his mind made up, he left his father's study and returned to his office.
As he walked, he went over his options, trying to devise a plan that would satisfy Xander Riley and protect his interests. It was daunting, but he was determined to find a way out of this mess.
***
At Riley Hotel.
As Scarlett arrived at their temporary house — a suite room at Riley Hotel — she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her.
However, her relief quickly turned into surprise as she entered the living room to find Xander sound asleep on the sofa. He was already dressed in his casual home clothes.
Scarlett couldn't resist smiling at seeing her husband sleeping so peacefully.
She approached him quietly, not wanting to disturb his slumber. As she got closer, she noticed how tired he looked. So, Scarlett decides to let him rest a little longer while she cleans up.
Carefully placing her shopping bags on the table, Scarlett went to the main bedroom to freshen up and shower. She wanted to completely relax before waking Xander and taking their dinner.
...
Shortly after, Scarlett emerged from the bedroom, dressed in comfortable home clothes — an oversized white shirt and shorts. Her long, dry hair was left flowing down her back, adding to her effortless beauty.
She took a quick glance at the couch and saw Xander still sleeping. Not wanting to disturb him just yet, Scarlett walked over to the fridge to check its contents.
She realized she needed to call Logan to go grocery shopping. Still, she decided to first contact the hotel restaurant and order their dinner for tonight. Her craving for Italian food was intense tonight.
After placing the order, Scarlett was surprised when she felt an arm wrap around her waist. She recognized Xander's familiar scent and felt a warmth spread through her body.
Scarlett's smile grew wider as she turned around to wrap her arms around Xander's waist. She looked into his eyes before speaking, "Xander, please sleep more. I'll wake you up when dinner is ready."
"No, I've slept too long," Xander replied, tightening his embrace. "Babe, why didn't you wake me up as soon as you arrived?" he asked.
"I did it on purpose. You looked exhausted," Scarlett said, leading him to sit on the sofa. "Oh, Xander, I ordered Italian food. Is that okay with you?" she asked, settling beside him.
"Babe, did you forget? I'm not a picky eater. I'll eat whatever my wife wants," Xander said playfully, gently stroking the tip of her nose.
"Thanks, hubby..." She said as she rested her head on his shoulder.
"Babe, I like it when you call me that. From now on, you have to call me Hubby!" Xander said happily, turning on the television.
Scarlett tightly shut her mouth, not wanting to get lost in Xander's charming ways again. She knew how easily he could pull her back into his sweet charm.
She had not had the chance to reply to Xander's earlier comment before her attention was caught by the news about the Harris Corp on television. "Thanks, Xander!" she exclaimed.
pαndα`noνɐ1--сoМ Xander tilted his head to get a better look at Scarlett's face, asking, "Why are you suddenly thanking me?"
Scarlett sat up straight and turned to face Xander. "For helping me get revenge against the Harris Family!" She answered sincerely. "...I really appreciate it," she added, her gratitude radiating through her words.
She had harbored a deep hatred for Ella Harris since the incident on island B. However, she had been unable to take revenge as Xander had promised to handle the Harris family himself. So, she had been holding back all along.
And today, the news of the Harris family falling into a vortex of trouble made her heart jump for joy.
Xander remained silent but leaned in to kiss Scarlett's rosy, fresh lips, his expression showing his love and support for her.
"I love you so much, Scarlett Piers!!" Xander said as their lips parted.
