Master of his heart (Max and Brielle) novel Chapter 1373

Irene held onto him quietly for a moment before forcing a smile.

"I'm exhausted. I think I'll head back to rest."

Bryan didn't say anything, but he couldn't help noticing her slightly unsteady walk, his frown deepening.

She had only taken a few steps when he suddenly scooped her up from behind.

Bryan lived just above Tequila Sunset. He'd been taking on risky jobs for years and had made more than enough money, so he had booked a room at Tequila Sunset for six months straight.

Now, as he carried Irene in his arms, a small smile played on her lips, and she quietly leaned against his chest.

When they reached the room, he knelt to take off her shoes, his demeanor almost reverent.

Irene was indeed exhausted, not wanting to move a muscle, but seeing him kneeling by the bed brought back memories of similar moments from the past.

When Bryan looked up, he saw her gazing at him with deep, affectionate eyes, but he knew they weren't meant for him.

She was looking through him, at someone else—001.

A frown briefly crossed his face as he held her delicate foot in his hands.

"Ms. Irene?"

"Hmm?"

"What kind of person was 001?"

She seemed so free-spirited, so unrestrained, it struck him as odd that she'd invest so much emotion in one man.

Yet her feelings for 001 seemed deep and steadfast; otherwise, she wouldn't treat him as a stand-in for 001.

Irene couldn't answer.

She tried to pull her foot back, but Bryan let go, understanding her reluctance to respond. "Need a shower?" he offered.

He turned to start the water in the bathroom, and once it was ready, he carried her in to wash her, inch by inch.

Back in bed, Irene finally said, "He was like you, earnest, attentive."

Bryan paused on his way to turn off the light, his lips twitching slightly.

"I'm not like him. I'm not earnest. Betraying Fisher was a moment's decision, and betraying you in the future might be just as easy."

He turned off the light and lay beside her, only to feel her arms wrap around his waist.

"I'm not afraid."

Irene held on tightly.

Even if he betrayed her, it would be her own fault, not his. He was blameless.

A hundred life-or-death missions couldn't make up for now, let alone a mere betrayal.