The Cold Surgeon's Contract Bride novel Chapter 199

None of us expected to run into Ferris here.

But since we had, it was impossible not to go over and say hello.

The imposing official beside him, however, clearly had no interest in interacting with us. He gave us a brief, dismissive glance before heading straight for the restaurant entrance.

Julian watched the man's retreating back and grinned. "Ferris, who's the VIP? Don't think I've seen him around."

Ferris's expression remained indifferent. He didn't answer Julian, obviously finding it inconvenient to discuss.

Leon stepped in to diffuse the tension. "Turn off the reporter instincts. Stop asking questions you shouldn't."

Julian rolled his eyes at Leon, totally unfazed. "We're all buddies here. No need to be so secretive."

Leon gave a helpless smile, looked at Ferris, and reminded him, "Looks like you just got here. Don't keep your guest waiting. You should head in."

Ferris's cold gaze swept over our faces. He gave a curt nod and walked away without looking back.

He didn't even acknowledge my existence, acting as though we were complete strangers.

I was completely used to it by now, and my heart didn't even skip a beat.

We parted ways with Julian. Knowing the police hadn't released an official statement yet, the paparazzi would definitely be hunting for my apartment. Going back to Eden Gardens was too risky.

But I couldn't just crash at Leon's place for free either, so I transferred him money based on a standard hotel rate.

Receiving the transfer, Leon was clearly surprised. Before he could argue, I said bluntly, "Friends need boundaries. I'm not taking advantage of you. You have to accept the money."

Seeing my resolve, Leon joked, "Well, I guess I'm officially a landlord now."

Safely back in his apartment, I scrolled through the shifting public opinion online. Right then, my screen lit up with a text from Ferris.

"Come home tonight."

Short and commanding, entirely his style.

But the word "home" felt like a sharp needle piercing my chest.

Ferris rarely ever lost his composure like this.

Seeing him in such a wild, unkempt state felt strangely liberating.

He looked like an entirely different person from his usual immaculate self.

In three years of marriage, it was my first time seeing my arrogant, pristine husband passed out on the floor.

"Ferris," I called out, trying to wake him up to find out why he texted me. "Ferris, can you hear me..."

Before I could finish, a strong hand clamped around my wrist. He pulled with surprising force, sending me crashing directly into his chest!

"Selena," the man murmured. "Honey, you finally came home."

Hearing that familiar, intimate nickname sent a sudden jolt of electricity down my spine. My mind went entirely blank, unable to tell if I was in reality or a dream.

His arms tightened securely around my waist, pulling me gently into his embrace. The heavy scent of alcohol mixed with his warm breath brushed over my hair. Resting against his solid arm, I could feel the burning heat of his skin radiating through his clothes.