The Rose He Showed Off Is Putting Down Roots in a Garden of Her Own novel Chapter 53

Zane's deep connections in the city's underbelly gave him an intimate knowledge of Caleb's true nature. Whenever the man couldn't secure a target, he went to Zane's high-end clubs to pay for company. At his worst, he'd go on week-long binges, earning himself the nickname "sleazy john" among the staff.

Seven days a week, seven nights of depravity. He also had a twisted fetish for interrogating women about their intimacy with other men while he was sleeping with them. He was wealthy and well-connected, but his character was absolute trash.

Not wanting to cause a public scene, Zane quietly slipped through the restaurant's side exit and looped around to the main entrance to orchestrate a 'coincidental' encounter. Zane stepped forward. "Caleb."

He smoothly stepped between them, taking Elara's weight against his own side. "Julian was tied up, so he asked me to come pick her up. Sorry for the trouble, Caleb."

Maintaining his polished image, Caleb chuckled. "I was just asking Mrs. Sterling where she lived."

"They're at the Sterling Estate. I'll take her home," Zane said firmly. "Why don't you head over to my lounge for the rest of the evening? I'll have Sebastian set you up."

Caleb's predatory gaze lingered on Elara's stunning features. The look in his eyes made Zane's blood run cold. He knew all too well that you couldn't guard against a determined predator forever.

"No, maybe next time," Caleb replied casually. Zane signaled the floor manager to escort Caleb out of the building.

Once Caleb was gone, Zane asked two female waitresses to help settle Elara into the backseat of his car. He drove straight to the underground garage of The Sovereign.

Opening the rear door, Zane bypassed the formalities and scooped her up into his arms, carrying her straight toward the private elevator.

The fresh air had slightly sobered Elara up. Regaining a sliver of consciousness, she weakly struggled against his chest. "No..."

"Hold still, or you'll fall," Zane warned, tightening his grip on her.

"I... I can walk..."

Zane obliged, lowering her to the ground. But the moment her feet touched the marble floor, her knees buckled. Zane instantly wrapped his arm around her waist, hauling her flush against his body.

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