Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 3450

It was just like Nocturne had said—a partnership built on mutual benefit was the only kind that lasted.

The same logic applied to her and Carson.

Carson raised an eyebrow, a faint smile on his lips. "Such a logical analysis. Spoken like a true boss."

Marina frowned. "Can you take this seriously for one minute?"

"Alright, go on," he yielded easily.

Marina's tone turned solemn. "If you think I'm going to end up like Miranda—trapped in some quiet courtyard, turning to religion for solace—you're wrong. I won't do it!"

That finally wiped the lazy smirk off Carson's face. His expression shifted, his gaze turning dark and impenetrable. After a long silence, he spoke in a low, measured voice.

"I understand."

Having laid her cards on the table, Marina finally relaxed. "Being friends is great. There's no need to escalate things!"

Carson's lips curved slightly. "I respect your wishes."

"If you respect me, then no more kissing me out of nowhere!" Marina huffed, fiercely rubbing her mouth. "If there's a next time, I'll make you regret it!"

Carson frowned as he stared at her plump, reddened lips. "Stop rubbing. You're going to break the skin."

A slight flush crept up Marina's neck. She stood and headed straight for her bedroom.

Watching her retreat, Carson drawled, "Goodnight, darling."

Marina threw a vicious glare over her shoulder before vanishing into her room.

Carson sat alone on the sofa for a long time. Thinking back on Marina's words hadn't cooled him down at all. Instead, it stirred a dark, predatory urge within him—an urge to pin her to the mattress and watch her cry as she begged for mercy.

He wanted to see her with reddened eyes to match those reddened lips.

Was this just a man's primal need to conquer a woman?

*

Later that morning at the office, as noon approached, Yuri knocked on Marina's door. He reported that the paperwork had been submitted for approval and, barring any issues, they could move on to the next phase immediately.

He also handed her his updated project schedule to review.

While Marina looked it over, Yuri reached into his pocket, pulled out a small jewelry box, and placed it on her desk. "Ms. Evert, this is for you."

Marina looked up in surprise. "What's this?"

She opened the box to reveal a delicate platinum bracelet adorned with a few exquisite pearls. It was highly unique.

"Ever since I joined the company, you've been incredibly supportive of my work. I've learned so much from you," Yuri explained. "I thought this bracelet really suited your vibe, so it's just a small token of my appreciation."

Marina chuckled. "Usually, people wait a while to bribe their bosses, but you just went straight for it!"

Yuri looked panic-stricken. "It's definitely not a bribe!"