Austin decided to drop the matter.
Austin chuckled and shook his head. "I don't feel comfortable letting you go out alone. The Yates family is still keeping an eye on you. You never know what they might try."
Suzanne propped her head on one hand and watched Austin through the screen, her voice soft. "Honestly, the Yates family can't do anything to hurt me."
She understood Austin's concern, which was why she hadn't refused Roselynn's presence.
Austin's expression turned serious. "If Henry ever lays a hand on you, the Yates family won't exist anymore."
Anything Suzanne wanted, he could retrieve for her with just a word. But she preferred to take things step by step, so he followed her pace with patience.
Seeing his unwavering confidence, Suzanne smiled. "I know."
Being protected like this wasn't a bad feeling.
Her words softened something inside him. Austin's gaze deepened as he murmured, "I wouldn't mind if you relied on me a little more."
Caught off guard, Suzanne straightened her posture and looked away as she whispered, "I'm going to take a shower. You should finish your work and get some rest."
Austin sighed lightly, recognizing her reserved nature. He didn't push further. "Alright, go ahead."
Just before hanging up, Suzanne hesitated and then softly said, "Good night, Austin."
The corners of Austin's lips lifted. There was warmth in his eyes, but before he could reply, the call ended.
Suzanne stared at the darkened screen, exhaling slowly. His words about relying on him echoed in her mind.
Smiling faintly, she flipped her phone face-down on the jewelry counter and took her clothes to the bathroom.
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