In the Lap of Luxury novel (Grace and Benjamin) novel Chapter 560

Grace finally caught her breath. She placed a hand on her chest and eventually pushed Xander away.

"I'm going back to my room. You should leave."

As Xander's arms suddenly became empty, his expression darkened. He instinctively reached out and grabbed her.

"I like you."

Grace stood still. She had imagined this day and how she would respond with, "I like you too."

But now she couldn't say it.

"Why did you come back to Pamore?" She was sharp and got straight to the point.

"I was afraid you would rekindle things with Benjamin."

"I didn't—"

Xander interrupted her, saying, "I know it's unlikely, but I'm afraid of the past repeating itself. It was just like this back then. I left for a while, and you went to him."

His voice was low. Grace felt her heart ache as well.

She pulled her hand away. "You're not thinking straight right now."

She broke free and hurried upstairs. Her footsteps disappeared at the end of the hallway.

…

Hazel was waiting outside Grace's place. Through the car window, she saw Xander coming out.

Surprised, she asked, "Ms. Lewis didn't ask you to stay for dinner?"

Xander's expression was grim as he tossed her bag at her.

She caught it. "This ... I left it behind. I'm sorry."

Xander stood still and lit a cigarette. "I don't hit women. Explain yourself."

Hazel nearly went weak at the knees as she explained, "I really forgot. It wasn't on purpose."

Xander didn't say anything in response. He took a deep drag of the cigarette and looked at her through the smoke.

"How long have you been working with me?"