Ayan responded with a faint acknowledgment and glanced at Kian with a subtle expression. His tone was indifferent as he inquired, "Any updates from him?"
Kian shook his head, "Not yet. After leaving the apartment, he took a cab to grab a meal and then wandered around for a bit. Since he doesn't need to wait around the museum today, he seemed to be enjoying some personal time. However, I suspect he might be doing this just to throw us off or to shake off anyone following him."
Kian wasn't entirely sure, but he couldn't think of any other reasons beyond this speculation.
Ayan let out a disinterested snort, his voice calm as he continued, "He's not that clever. If he were, he wouldn't have returned to Preston's side to work despite knowing that Preston is in trouble. He was likely prompted by Preston, a reminder that someone is tailing him. Perhaps he's trying to confuse us."
Ayan's derisive gaze carried a hint of indifference as he spoke, his fingers lightly tapping on the tabletop. Clad in black suit pants, his legs elegantly crossed, he leaned back in the leather chair.
A faint, almost imperceptible curve graced his lips, and his voice held a cold, composed tone, "If he enjoys acting clever, then let him have his way. We'll play along and let the ones watching Quintus cooperate in his little show. It will make him lower his guard. Right now, Preston can't return to Hance, but he doesn't want to let go of his partnership with Cora."
Ayan's voice remained even, his gaze half-lidded as he continued, "I suspect he'll either try to persuade or threaten Cora through Quintus, or he'll find a way for Quintus to personally deliver Cora to Flento. Both methods require them to meet Cora in person. So, why rush?"
Just wait.
Sooner or later, the moment will come. There's no need to hurry.
After all, compared to Preston, Ayan was the one feeling more urgency.
Online posts questioning Preston's actions had flooded various platforms, easily accessible on television and smartphones without even needing a search.
That's exactly what Ayan wanted – Cora needed to see those doubts. Once she realizes she can't achieve her goals with Preston, she'll reevaluate her situation.
Ayan's half-narrowed eyes showed a trace of icy amusement. He casually reached for a cigarette, but before he could light it, Kian quietly reminded him, "Mr. Simpson, Mrs. Simpson asked me to remind you to smoke less."
Ayan's hand holding the cigarette paused in midair. His eyebrows furrowed slightly, and he turned his cold gaze toward Kian. The scrutiny lasted for several moments.
He finally asked, a hint of mockery in his tone, "What did she give you to make you so obedient to her? Hmm?"
His voice carried a clear undertone of amusement, but Kian quickly explained, "Nothing. Mrs. Simpson is just concerned about your well-being, so she asked me to remind you."
Ayan chuckled and didn't say anything further. He seemed to be in a good mood since he immediately extinguished the cigarette.
Taking a deep, noiseless breath, Kian mentally reminded himself that Mrs. Simpson was indeed the most formidable figure. With a single sentence, she could command Mr. Simpson's obedience. He resolved to be even more attentive to Camille from now on.
After Ayan extinguished the cigarette, Kian discreetly disposed of the ashtray. He then spoke softly, "Mr. Simpson, there's another matter. Sean mentioned that he'd like to meet you. Should I arrange a meeting?"
Ayan declined, "No need. Have him tell you whatever he wants."
Kian nodded, "Alright, I'll reply to him."
Kian was about to leave when Ayan stopped him, "Wait."
Kian turned to face Ayan, who said, "When you meet Sean, don't be overly aggressive. He specifically requested to see me. I'm not sure if he wants to negotiate or if he has something substantial to discuss. You can guide him and remind him that he can ask for anything as long as he has something to offer."
Kian understood and nodded, "Understood. I know how to handle it."
Ayan gave a nonchalant "Hmm" before waving Kian off, allowing him to leave.
When Kian met with Sean, he conveyed Ayan's message accurately. Sean's face registered confusion and contemplation for a while before he told Kian, "I'll think about it."
Kian followed Ayan's advice, not pressuring Sean or trying to pry out more information. Instead, he gave Sean the space and time to think.
Kian didn't linger with Sean for too long. Camille had made lunch plans with Ayan, so Kian needed to book a restaurant and prepare the dishes in advance.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: My Ex-husband Begs Me Back (Ayan and Camille)
Update pls thanks,!...
Thank you so much for the prompt update. More pls....