?Chapter 517:

    “You do it like this,” William instructed, holding Ste’s gaze without flinching.

    The air caught in Ste’s throat. “Mr. Briggs, how about you just lie there and stay put? I’m perfectly capable of giving a massage. But if you think you know better, then handle it on your own.”

    She ced the ointment into his hand and strode out of the room with zero hesitation.

    Outside, she paused by the doorway, inhaling and exhaling in short bursts to steady herself.

    Her fingers pressed against her cheeks, which radiated heat. No mirror was needed; her face must have been bright red.

    A light p to Ste’s cheeks and she muttered under her breath, “Honestly, Ste, what is wrong with you? You’re really letting William get under your skin!” She wondered if theck of male attentiontely was making her so sensitive.

    Still, did he actually care about her?

    Why did she find that hard to believe?

    It seemed impossible that someone like him would have feelings for her. Pushing away the doubts, Ste gathered herposure and headed outside the resort, refusing to nce back.

    Marc, nursing his bruised ego after her earlier outburst, watched her slip away and quickly set his ss down before trailing after her.

    Slipping into a taxi, Ste had barely settled in when the passenger door swung open from the outside.

    Marc slid in before Ste could even react.

    “Stel, you don’t mind if I tag along, right?”

    Ste’s expression darkened as she replied in a cool tone, “You need to get out.”

    Marc wouldn’t let it go. “Come on, Stel. You really want to let this car idle here and waste time?”

    Feel the magic on gα?ησν????s

    As much as she hated to agree, he made a valid point.

    With a weary sigh, Ste pressed her fingers to her temples. “Alright, let’s just get going.”

    Marc, now content with her answer, settled into the seat and looked satisfied. The taxi rolled along while Ste focused on the scenery, making a point not to look Marc’s way.

    When they arrived at the research institute, she pulled out some bills, paid the driver, and stepped out. Marc was quick to follow.

    “So, did you move back into the institute’s dorms?”

    Ste shot him a re. “Where I stay doesn’t concern you.”

    Marc sped up to walk ahead, then turned around. “Did you onlye back because of William?”

    A crease formed between his brows. Was she really so invested in William these days?

    Ignoring himpletely, Ste walked toward the entrance as if she hadn’t heard a word.

    Marc bristled but seemed to remember his own mistakes. He blocked her path and tried again. “Stel, I know you always dreamed of a perfect wedding and a great honeymoon. I can make all that happen. Please just give me another chance. Let’s try again. I’ll make sure you have everything you ever wanted.”

    Ste never expected Marc to say something so absurd.

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