“You…” Antonia swallowed hard, clearly understanding. “The one with the yellow floral pattern.”
The streetlights flickered on as Steven came home, bringing a chill from the outside air with him. He handed me a slice of chocolate cake.
“I heard it was just made. Do you want to eat it now, or save it for dessert?”
Antonia nearly ground her teeth to dust with jealousy.
I took the cake from him with a smile. “Let’s have it later. We can eat now.”
“Alright.” Steven took off his long black trench coat, his handsome face looking softer in the warm yellow light. He chatted with me calmly while washing his hands.
“Did you get your company matters sorted out?”
I wasn't surprised he knew; after all, Aether Studio was my guarantor.
“Yes, thanks to your help with the business license. That’s why I decided I had to treat you to a good meal.”
Steven’s lips curved into a smile. “I’ve been thinking. If you really want to expand your career abroad, I’ll start looking into our overseas operations more seriously. The international project is already off the ground and showing promise. It needs someone there long-term. I could go.”
Having been married to him for years, I knew a little about Aether Studio. Mr. Lancaster Sr. was a patriot who had always focused on championing national brands, which was why Aether Studio had never taken on foreign investment.
Steven had followed the same path, expanding the business to global sales but keeping the headquarters in the country. If he were to move abroad to oversee operations, it would inevitably make rivals and certain organizations think he was shifting his focus. The board aside, Mr. Lancaster Sr. would be the first to object.
But Steven wasn't one to make empty promises, especially about his business. If he said it, he had already thought it through.
He was doing it for me.
I pressed my lips together, suddenly finding it hard to breathe. My heart felt heavy in my chest.
“There’s no need for that. We can talk about it later. Let’s eat.”
I could feel Steven’s eyes on me, but I didn’t look at him, so I couldn't guess his expression.
He wrapped his arms around me, his dark, intense eyes gazing at me without restraint. He nuzzled my cheek before burying his face in my neck.
“Why are you being so good to me today? Even a surprise?”
I didn’t move, letting him hold me. My hand accidentally brushed against his bare wrist. His skin was hot—abnormally so.
I didn't know what kind of drug Antonia had used, but I figured it was the usual sort. I coaxed him softly.
“Because you’ve been good, and I like it. Go take your shower. I’ll come find you after I see Antonia out.”
Steven held me for a long moment before straightening up. He looked down at me quietly, and I looked back up at him.
He was exceptionally handsome, with a cool, distant air. His chiseled features, clean eyes, high-bridged nose, and thin, ruby-red lips put most celebrities to shame.
How could such a beautiful face hide such a cruel heart?

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