Done with Cheater's Coldness Shine in Rival's Arms novel Chapter 45

Chapter 45 An Unexpected Guest

She didn’t know much about this man, but Mabel’s words didn’t sound like a lie.

“All done with the ointment. Rest well,” Mabel said.

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“Mr. Reed specifically told me your favorite dishes before he left. I’ve asked the kitchen to prepare them. I’ll call you when dinner’s ready.”

After giving her instructions, Mabel left, leaving Quinn alone.

Quinn quickly picked up her phone and called Mia.

“Miss Hart, are you okay?” Mia asked anxiously, her voice filled with concern. “I’ve been wanting to call you, but they took me to the hospital for a check–up. I’m fine now. Don’t worry about me.”

Mia had thrown herself in front of Quinn to protect her, taking a hard kick from Derek. Quinn felt deeply touched.

“I’m okay too. Where are you now? Does it still hurt?”

“Don’t worry, Miss Hart. I’m completely fine,” Mia assured her. “Mr. Reed’s men gave Derek a good beating and took him to the police station. Then they drove me to the hospital for a full check–up.

“The results showed nothing’s wrong. They dropped me off at home afterward. They were all very kind and thoughtful!”

Mia recounted everything in detail. Knowing her assistant was safe, Quinn finally relaxed.

“Mia. I’m so sorry I got you involved in this,” Quinn said guiltily. “You got hurt because of me. Take the next few days off. Don’t worry about work.”

“Miss Hart, please don’t say that! Protecting you is my job,” Mia insisted. “You’ve always taken care of me. I’m happy to do this for you!

“By the way… the man who saved you today was so handsome! Is he your fiancé?”

Mia couldn’t help but ask, her tone turning playful.

“You’ll find out soon enough!” Quinn replied, avoiding a direct answer before hanging up.

That evening…

Once dinner was ready, Mabel came to fetch Quinn downstairs.

When she entered the dining room, Quinn was surprised to see over a dozen dishes laid out on the table- all her favorites.

“Is he coming back?” she asked.

There was far too much food for one person. It seemed like a waste.

“Mr. Reed said you should eat first,” Mabel explained. “He’s not sure when he’ll be back, so no need to wait

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Chapter 45 An Unexpected Guest

for him.”

After explaining. Mabel left to give Quinn some privacy. She figured the young woman might feel uncomfortable with someone watching her eat.

Finished

The unfamiliar surroundings made Quinn feel a little awkward, but she couldn’t deny the sense of security she felt here. It was an unexpected calm.

The front door opened.

Is Peyton back?

Quinn looked up. her gaze drifting to the entrance.

A woman walked in–pale skin, wearing a black dress with loose waves cascading down her shoulders. She had a stunning figure and an elegant, charismatic presence.

Quinn froze.

Didn’t Mabel say Peyton has never brought any other woman home?

Mabel!” the woman called out as she entered.

“I’m here.” Mabel replied, hurrying over to the door.

She bent down to fetch a pair of slippers for the woman.

“Please come in. Mrs. Reed.” Mabel said, leading her inside.

Quinn was still standing by the dining table. She’d stood up instinctively when she heard someone enter.

“What’s going on here?” the woman asked, looking surprised to see Quinn.

Mrs. Reed, this is Mr. Reed’s fiancée,” Mabel whispered in her ear.

Quinn Hart? Is that right?”

Upon learning her identity, the woman broke into a warm smile and walked toward her enthusiastically

“Yes, I’m Quinn Hart, she replied, still feeling a little confused.

I’m Peyton’s mother, Eleanor Reed. I don’t think we’ve met before, but I know all about you–and about your upcoming engagement, Eleanor said warmly.

“No need to be so nervous around me. Your mother and I have always been good friends. From now on. you’re like a daughter to me!”

So this is Peyton’s mother!

Quinn studied her closely. Now that she looked, Peyton and his mother were quite similar.

“Hello, Mrs. Reed. Quinn greeted her politely.

“What happened to your face? How did you get hurt?” Eleanor asked, noticing the bruises immediately. She

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Chapter 45 An Unexpected Guest

reached out to gently touch Quinn’s cheek, her eyes filled with concern.

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“That stubborn boy! I told him countless times to take good care of you. And yet he let you get hurt. Wait until he gets home–I’ll give him a piece of my mind!”

Eleanor’s personality was nothing like Peyton’s. Quinn could tell she was kind and straightforward.

“Mrs. Reed, it’s not his fault. I hurt myself accidentally. Please don’t blame him,” Quinn said, feeling a little overwhelmed by the sudden warmth.

“If you got hurt, it is his fault,” Eleanor insisted. “And how dare he leave you here eating alone? I definitely need to talk to him about this.”

Her tone was firm, but her eyes held nothing but kindness.

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