The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 230

While they were playing cards, Zach had given him some unsolicited advice, claiming the first step to winning her over was forcing her to change how she addressed him. Otherwise, she would forever view him as her ex-husband's buddy.

Riley was confused. "Huh?"

Sebastian looked at the bewildered woman bathed in the night air. "You and Pierce are divorced. Calling me by my first name like we're just old family friends doesn't feel right anymore, does it?"

Riley froze. He was just taking such good care of her, so what was this about?

It almost sounded like he was trying to distance himself.

She suddenly remembered the accidental kiss. Was this his subtle way of warning her? Taking care of her out of obligation was one thing, but he didn't want her getting the wrong idea?

But it truly was an accident! She didn't dare harbor any fantasies about someone like Sebastian. She knew her place.

She forced a tight, awkward smile. "You're right. It doesn't."

Sebastian hadn't expected her to agree so easily. A faint, satisfied smirk touched his lips. "Get in."

She slid into the backseat.

Sebastian climbed in after her.

Franklin started the car.

Sebastian pulled a pristine jade-colored jar from the center console and handed it to her. "The ointment."

Riley took it. The porcelain was cold and heavy, a clear indicator of its exorbitant price. "Thank you, S—" she caught herself immediately. "Thank you, Mr. St. John."

Sebastian frowned sharply. "Mr. St. John?"

Seeing his displeasure, Riley assumed he hated the formality. "Boss?"

Sebastian stared at her in dead silence.

Even Franklin couldn't take it anymore. "Dr. Vance, he's Alora's godfather. Calling him that makes him sound like a stranger."

Riley slipped the jar into her purse, then pulled out a small navy-blue velvet box and offered it to him. "Happy birthday."

A flash of genuine surprise flickered deep in his eyes, quickly masked as he lowered his lashes. When he looked back up, his expression was completely composed. "Thank you."

"It's nothing crazy. I hope you don't mind."

"I don't." Sebastian flipped the box open, revealing the deep blue cufflinks. He handed the open box back to her. "Would you help me put them on?"

Riley blinked. She thought only kids and women couldn't resist immediately trying on something pretty. She hadn't expected a man of his stature to be eager to wear his gift right away.

But his wanting to put them on meant he genuinely liked them, which was the highest compliment for a gift-giver.

"Sure." She agreed without thinking. It wasn't until he extended his arm toward her that she realized she had never actually done this before. She gave him a sheepish look. "I don't know how."

He looked genuinely puzzled. "You never did this for Pierce?"