Bound by the Past, Locked by the Heart novel Chapter 143

She quickly grabbed his arm, pulling him toward the door with all her strength. "Randal, I never wanted to leave. Martin and I were just discussing a potential collaboration on some cultural heritage projects."

Once Randal's hostility dialed back a fraction, Willa pulled out her phone, opened her messages, and showed it to him.

"Look, I sent you a message, but the signal up here is terrible. It didn't go through. I wasn't deliberately ignoring you."

Randal glanced down at the screen. The agitation in his eyes slowly faded. The tension drained from his body so fast that his legs gave out, and he collapsed onto a nearby sofa.

He clutched his head in frustration, his voice faint and laced with self-reproach. "Willa, I'm sorry. I just couldn't control myself."

Willa stepped forward and wrapped an arm around his shoulders. "It's over, Randal. Let's just go."

When they reached the door, she gently nudged him. "Wait for me a second."

He instantly tensed up, gripping her hand like a vise. "What are you doing?"

"I'm going to apologize. I'll be right back. I won't go far."

Randal stubbornly held onto her hand, refusing to let go.

Willa coaxed him gently. "Just one sentence. You can watch me. I won't leave your sight."

He hesitated for a few seconds before nodding.

Willa stepped back into the room and walked over to Martin, thoroughly embarrassed. "Mr. Jenson, I am so sorry about what happened today. I'll treat you to coffee another time to properly apologize."

Martin was still visibly shaken, managing a weak smile. "I-it's fine. Just a misunderstanding."

Willa gave Iris a final nod of gratitude before turning to leave.

Iris sighed, deciding not to push the issue any further.

Walking out of the club, Randal's hands were still trembling slightly.

Once in the car, he refused to let go of her hand. He held it tightly in silence, staring unblinkingly at her profile.

Willa felt a chill run down her spine under his intense gaze. "What is it?"

He pressed his face against her palm and slowly closed his eyes.

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