“I don’t either, so let’s not worry about it,” he replied.

“It’s not a small amount, a few hundred thousand at most,” Emmeline insisted.

“It’s nothing, really,” Abel said dismissively.

“Then how about this,” Emmeline suggested. “I’ll take Mr. Ryker out to dinner to make up for it. It’ll make me feel better.”

Abel considered for a moment before nodding his agreement. “That sounds fine.”

“I can invite some friends of Mr. Ryker’s too,” Emmeline offered. “The more the merrier, right?”

Abel wondered who to invite.

“Mr. Ryker, pick a time,” Emmeline said on the other end of the line. “I’m available anytime.”

“How about today at noon?” Abel suggested. “I don’t feel like being at home.”

Emmeline knew Abel wanted to avoid Evelyn.

“Sure, I’m free at noon too,” she replied.

“Let’s go to Nimbus Hotel then, how does that sound to you?” Abel proposed.

“That sounds great,” Emmeline said. “I’ll be there in a bit.”

“Okay,” Abel said. “Just be careful when you’re driving. I don’t want you getting into another accident and hitting someone.”

“Don’t worry,” Emmeline laughed. “I don’t care about anyone else. I only have eyes for you, Mr. Ryker.”

Abel smiled, feeling his heart swell with affection. He couldn’t believe he was starting to feel like he was in love.

But a small part of him was also nervous. Could he really be falling for this guy?

He pushed those thoughts aside, not wanting to overthink things.

Abel shrugged to himself, figuring that as long as he was happy and not hurting anyone, there was no harm in indulging in his own desires.

Just then, his phone rang again. It was Benjamin calling.

“Abel?” Benjamin said in a bored voice. “I’m feeling lonely and bored. How about we grab lunch together?”

“Actually, I already made plans with a friend,” Abel replied. “But it just so happens that you’re here, offering to keep me company.”

“That sounds good,” Benjamin said. “What time and where?”

“Noon, at the Nimbus Hotel,” Abel replied.

“Okay, see you then,” Benjamin said.

…

Abel had booked the Golden Tier VIP room at the Nimbus Hotel and changed his clothes. Before leaving, he checked himself in the mirror to make sure he looked perfect.

Finally, he opened the door, only to find Evelyn standing outside, about to knock.

As Abel opened the door, Evelyn pushed her way in.

Abel caught her and looked at her with a stern expression.

“What are you doing here?” he asked.

“Mr. Abel,” Evelyn blushed, “Auntie asked me to come and ask you what you would like for lunch, so the kitchen can prepare it.”

“I won’t be eating at home,” Abel said coldly, “I have a client.”

“But Mr. Abel…”

Abel brushed past her and headed downstairs.

Evelyn was left standing there, looking lost and confused.

It was clear that Abel was avoiding her.

At the Nimbus Hotel, Abel ran into Adrien and Lizbeth in the lobby.

“Abel,” Adrien said, holding Lizbeth’s hand as they approached, “you’re looking sharp. Who are you meeting here?”

“Adelmar’s Benjamin,” Abel replied calmly, “we’re discussing some business. And another young chap.”

“I thought you were meeting a lovely lady,” Adrien chuckled, eyeing Abel up and down, “dressed to impress, like you’re in the throes of romance.”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Adrien,” Abel retorted, “I’m not like you, all caught up in the passion of new love.”

Adrien quipped, “Well if there’s someone suitable, you have to keep going.”

Abel nodded absently, “Hmm.”

Just then, a cool voice chimed in, “Mr. Ryker.”

Abel turned his head and saw “Emmett” approaching.

“He” was wearing a silver suit, white shirt, and a dark blue tie with subtle stripes.

With clear-cut features and a touch of gracefulness, “he” exuded an air of elegance.

Abel was suddenly taken aback, feeling something stir within him.

He couldn’t help but feel a hint of what Adrien had described as being in love.

Adrien himself was struck dumb by the sight of Emmett.

How could anyone be so beautiful, so delicate and captivating, like a work of art come to life?

It was almost overwhelming, like a sensation that surpassed even the allure of women.