The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 230

I shook my head at Ryan to prove that i was fine and walked to the front desk alone, And then I stared at the selection of swimwear lavd out before me. This was ridiculous, Devon had clearly arranged this whole thing to punish me for meeting with Ryan

“Is there anything more… conservative?‘ I asked the attendant.

She offered an apologetic smile. I’m sorry, Ms. Harper. These are all the selections in your size. Mr. Kane was very specific about the styles,”

Of course he was. I bit the inside of my cheek, scanning the array of designer swimwear. Each plece seemed more revealing than the last–

strategically cut monokinis, barely–there bikinis, and a single blue lace one–piece that, while technically covering more skin, somehow

managed to look even more provocative than the two–pieces,

“Fine,” I sighed, selecting the blue lace one–piece, “This one.”

Inside the changing room, I slipped into the swimsuit and turned to face the mirror. The reflection confirmed my fears–the blue lace hugged every curve of my body, the plunging neckline and sheer side panels leaving little to the imagination. The color made my skin appear luminous against the deep blue, and the cut accentuated my figure in ways that seemed deliberately designed to entice.

“Perfect for business discussions,” I muttered sarcastically, wrapping a white resort robe around myself. Even with the robe, I felt exposed,

vulnerable.

Following the attendant’s directions, I made my way through the resort’s winding paths to the private hot springs area. The scent of eucalyptus and rose petals filled the air, and soft ambient music played from hidden speakers. Under different circumstances, I might have enjoyed this luxury. Now, all I felt was tension coiling in my stomach.

The private pool area was secluded, surrounded by lush tropical plants and stone walls. Rose petals floated on the steaming water, and candles flickered in recessed alcoves. I had to admit, it was beautiful–and completely, utterly empty.

Where was Devon? Had he set this all up just to make me wait? To keep me on edge?

I slipped out of my robe and eased myself into the warm water, sighing involuntarily as the heat seeped into my muscles. Despite my irritation, the sensation was divine. I leaned back against the pool’s edge, allowing myself a moment to close my eyes.

My thoughts drifted to the Harper Group financial records that Ryan had been analyzing. I needed concrete proof before confronting my father. If William chose to believe Victoria over me again….

The water rippled around me, and I lost myself in planning my next moves. I would need to secure those records, perhaps hire a forensic accountant. Then there was the question of the beach house–despite the fire, I still held the deed. Rebuilding would take time, but it was my mother’s legacy, the one piece of her I had managed to reclaim.

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Chapter 230

Is this what working late at the office looks like these days, Harper?”

My eyes flew open. Devon stood at the edge of the pool, still dressed in his suit pants and shirt, though he’d removed his jacket and This expression was unreadable, but his voice carried an edge that sent a shiver down my spine despite the warmth of the water

‘Devon- I started, but didn’t get to finish.

In one swift movement, he reached down and turned me to face him, his hands firm on my shoulders. Water splashed around as as gasped in surprise.

“Too early for a greeting, Ms. Harper?” he asked, his voice low and dangerous. His eyes traveled over my face, down to where the water lapped against the lace of my swimsuit.

“You scared me,” I said, trying to regain composure. “And this isn’t what it looks like. Ryan and I were discussing-

“Business?” Devon finished for me. His thumb traced a small circle on my bare shoulder. “Strange place for a business meeting.

I met his gaze, refusing to be intimidated despite the way my heart hammered in my chest. “We were discussing Harper Group finances. Ryan knows people who can help with the investigation.”

Devon’s expression darkened. “And you couldn’t share this information with me? I believe I’ve demonstrated my willingness to assist with your family’s… complications.”

He moved closer, trapping me against the pool wall. The stone pressed against my back as Devon’s body hovered inches from mine. His proximity made it difficult to focus on my defense.