The Rose He Showed Off Is Putting Down Roots in a Garden of Her Own novel Chapter 146

Elara held out a sleek device. "You left your phone in my car, Zane."

Zane patted his suit trousers and realized his pocket was indeed empty.

"Come in for a minute. I actually wanted to discuss the Eastford project with you," Zane said, stepping aside to make room. "You don't need to take your shoes off."

Elara hesitated for a split second but didn't decline.

Her high heels stepped onto the plush carpet. Zane crushed his cigarette out in an ashtray and asked, "What brand do you feel like drinking tonight?"

"I'll pass, Zane. I still have to drive back. Water is fine."

Elara sat gracefully on the sofa. The last time she had collapsed onto him, his body had reacted intensely. She had no desire to drink with him again, especially since his alcohol tolerance was genuinely terrible.

"You can just stay over after we drink," Zane offered smoothly.

A faint smile touched Elara's lips. "Zane, inviting a woman to drink and sleep over sounds a bit suspicious."

Zane thought to himself that he was entirely suspicious. But outwardly, he chuckled. "We're old friends. It's not that serious. The house is empty, and I have plenty of spare rooms."

He popped open a bottle of single malt whiskey and poured her a glass anyway. "Try this one. It's not too strong."

Zane wasn't a heavy drinker, and he certainly wasn't fond of this particular sweet profile. He had bought it specifically with Elara in mind.

Elara took a tentative sip. The sweetness was prominent, carrying a rich fruity aroma, and the alcohol bite was mild.

"It's very smooth," she complimented.

Zane's gaze drifted down to her feet. She was wearing the shoes he had gifted her.

"Take your shoes off," he murmured softly. "They look uncomfortable."

Elara looked down at her heels. They were a gift from Zane—he had casually sent over ten pairs of the season's latest designs. Afraid they would go to waste once the season ended, she had been cycling through them daily.

Just as she leaned down to slip them off, Zane reached out and picked them up.

A man handling a woman's stilettos.

The gesture was undeniably intimate.

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