The Invincible Arthur Gardner novel Chapter 26

“My name is Arthur Gardner,” Arthur said slowly, turning to Claudina, who seemed to be silently staring at him.

"Arthur Gardner?" Claudina muttered softly. She was vaguely familiar with the name as if it was tugging at the edges of her memory. Why did it sound so familiar, and why did it seem to be connected to something else?

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Gardner," said Claudina. "But please, just call me Claudina." She smiled gratefully. "I can't thank you enough for all that you've done."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Claudina," replied Arthur, his tone warm and affable.

Arthur smiled at Claudina's words. He was still driving on city streets at the speed limit, keeping in line with the other cars. He kept checking the rearview mirror, trying to make sure no one was following him.

After a few glances, Arthur felt secure enough and hoped that the situation would be resolved quickly. "Let's just hope this matter is over quickly," he said.

However, there was another problem; this time, Arthur was bringing Claudina, a well-known public figure who was undoubtedly going to create a stir. He couldn't leave her alone either since he felt she would be safer in his company. What's more, her manager had even planned to auction off her virginity.

Arthur clenched his fists around the steering wheel, irritation boiling in his chest as he dwelled on how many people had been corrupted by their pursuit of wealth. He was aware that Leo had gone too far; instead of trapping Claudina, he should have been looking out for her, especially after she had firmly declined the suggestion of the auction.

"Claudina," Arthur said quietly.

"Yes, hmmm Mr. Gardner?" He answered in a low, gentle voice.

"I think Arthur is enough," he replied.

“Hmmm yes, uhmm…. Mr. Arthur?” Claudina said quietly.

Arthur smiled faintly and asked, "Do you have any idea where I could take you? I don't want to commit a crime by taking a public figure like you with me. There will be a lot of people searching for you, or even the police."

Claudina paused thoughtfully in response to Arthur's inquiry.

"Hmmm, I have a place to stay, but...Mr. Leo..."

"Are you afraid of facing him?" Arthur inquired.

Arthur clicked his tongue, disapproval evident in the sound. He felt strongly that someone like Leo needed to be taught a harsh lesson. For the time being, he thought it would be best to provide Claudina with a place to live until her management issues were resolved.

"At least Leo should be fired and given a harsh punishment," Arthur said firmly, "otherwise I'm not willing to let you be under their management."

[I see you're starting to develop a harem-like instinct, host?]

[What gives you the right to not want to see that girl in danger?]

"That's an instinct to do good deeds," thought Arthur, internalizing his words. "And please, shut up, you cringe system!"

"Maybe I'm pushing the boundaries," Arthur continued, "but I think we need to find a way for you to be able to work without discomfort after the incident involving you and Leo."

Up to this point, Arthur was even considering purchasing the company that employed Claudina and, of course, eradicating the mess that had been made there.

In a low voice, Claudina nodded and replied, "I don't mind losing my job, Mr. Arthur."