Like this, she seemed fragile. Yet only he knew the fiercely intense spirit buried deep within her bones.
The girl held contradictions within her that were utterly captivating, fueling a desire to possess her entirely, to slowly unravel all her secrets.
The water had cooled slightly. Erik held the glass to her lips. "Careful, it's hot."
"I can drink it myself." Over the years, she'd done everything alone, grown accustomed to independence. She was no longer the little princess cradled in others' palms.
The water was still quite hot. Janelle blew on it gently and took a small sip. She'd have preferred to add cold water, but knew this man would lecture her. It wasn't worth the hassle.
"Hungry? The butler prepared supper. We could have a little if you like."
"I don't have the habit of eating supper." Honestly, the past five years had been consumed by relentless effort – pushing her limits, treating her mother, meticulously planning her return and revenge. Where was the time for supper?
"Mm. Me neither." The butler had prepared it out of concern they hadn't eaten well earlier.
"Go to sleep. I'll go after I finish this water." He didn't need to keep her company.
"I'll wait. I wouldn't sleep if I went back now anyway." Janelle didn't argue. The girl continued sipping her water, its temperature gradually becoming bearable.
Being so beautiful meant even mundane actions like drinking water felt like an infraction to him. Her lips, dampened by the water, looked temptingly rosy.
After she finished, Erik washed both glasses.
They went upstairs together. She returned to the master bedroom to sleep. Erik… went for another shower. The image of Janelle in her simple white nightgown, dark hair cascading down, was dangerously tempting.
That night, someone tossed and turned restlessly. The mere thought of her sleeping in his bed made his heartbeat spiral out of control.
Janelle, however, slept soundly.
The next morning, the old butler had breakfast ready. It was a lavish spread.
"Miss Rovella, I wasn't sure of your preferences, so I prepared a bit of everything. If anything doesn't suit, please tell me." The young master had finally brought a girl home. He intended to take excellent care of her.
"Thank you. This is perfect. I'm not picky." Janelle specifically thanked the butler for his care.
"Alright, eat up. You barely ate last night." She'd truly been unwell then. She must be hungry now.
Erik tested the milk's temperature – perfect. "This is from one of Haoting Group's dairy farms. Excellent quality. Try it. If you like it, I can have it air-shipped back for you."
She took the glass he offered but set it aside. She didn't like milk at all, especially plain milk. She just couldn't get used to it.
"It really is good. Give it a try," Erik urged, seeing her reluctance.
"Miss Rovella, the milk truly is exceptional. Please, taste it," the butler added. They hadn't liked plain milk before either, but this farm's product was different.
Under the expectant gaze of the two men, old and young, Janelle took a reluctant sip. After one taste, she recognized its unique quality.
"It is very good." She drank a few more sips before setting it aside again.
The breakfast was excellent, meeting Erik's usual high standards.
After breakfast, Janelle prepared to leave. Erik handed her a bag. "Change into this. I'm taking you somewhere."
"Where? Erik, I need to return to Graham City immediately. I don't have time." Too much awaited her back there.
"We'll go together afterwards. I promise I'll get you back to Graham City today."
"Erik, I'm not negotiating. I'm leaving now." He wasn't her keeper. She didn't answer to him.
Erik caught her hand. "Janelle, listen to me just this once, okay?" His gaze was sincere. "Trust me, I wouldn't harm you."
Faced with this earnestness, Janelle found refusal difficult. "It had better be important." She took the bag and went to change.
Inside the bag was a dress the butler had prepared at Erik's request – the latest design. A strappy maxi dress in a soft, youthful color, complete with matching undergarments.
She changed into the dress and went downstairs.
Erik was waiting. His taste was impeccable. The girl looked stunning in the dress. Her arms, long and pale, were showcased beautifully by the straps.
The butler stood nearby, a smile playing on his lips as he observed the young master's gaze. After all these years, the young man's heart had finally thawed.
As Janelle descended the stairs, Erik stepped forward when she was a few steps from the bottom.
"You look beautiful today."
"Where exactly are we going?"
"Let's go. I will get you to Graham City today." His word was good.
"Young Master, need the driver?"
"No. Have someone retrieve the car from the airport later." After this, they'd fly back together.
"Very well."
He opened the car door, shielding her as she got in.
Erik drove them to another villa, not far from his own – only about thirty minutes away.
The car entered the private garage. Seeing Mr. Lorenz arrive personally with a young lady, the housekeeper immediately came out to greet them.
"Mr. Lorenz, it's been too long!"
"It has. How is Grandma Qin's health?"
"The Madam is very well! She's been talking about you constantly lately."
"That's why I've come to see her." Erik led Janelle inside. The housekeeper was gracious and comfortable to be around, chatting with Erik while guiding them deeper into the house.
She led them to an herb preparation room. The distinctive scent of medicinal herbs filled the air the moment they entered.
"..." What was Erik bringing her here for?
The housekeeper led the way. Erik took her hand. "Grandma Qin is a veteran TCM practitioner, very renowned here in Imperial Capital. She happens to be in residence. I wanted her to examine you."
"She's wonderful. Don't be nervous."
Nervous? Was she nervous?
Erik still held her hand. Knowing about her stomach problems, he'd planned to bring her here.
As they spoke, they entered the room. Janelle withdrew her hand. Had he gotten used to holding it?
"Madam, Mr. Lorenz is here to see you."
Grandma Qin looked up. Though over seventy, she was vibrant and full of spirit, a venerable lady.