Never Too Far Novel

Chapter 641-650

Anastasia was flustered as the wedding banquet was about to begin. While she was trying to calm herself down, she heard someone knocking on the door. The door was pushed open and Elliot walked in. He had changed into a black suit embellished with golden threads, and the waistcoat he wore underneath was exceptionally intricate and structured, which went well with his prominent and good- looking features.

Anastasia raised her gaze and checked him out. Her long-lashed eyes blinked as she was trying to ingrain how dashing he looked today into her memory.

On the other hand, he was amazed at how stunning she looked. Dressed in the maroon gown, she looked pure like she had always been.

“Let’s go.” Elliot stretched his hand out to take his. In the end, the both of them walked toward the main hall with interlocked fingers. As they stepped into the hall, the holographic lights lit up on cue, which instantly transformed the hall and gave it an exuberant vibe fitting for a wedding banquet. Through the lens of the photographer, a couple who was very much in love walked in while holding hands.

Although they had been through so much together, their love for each other was stronger than ever.

All of the guests turned their attention to the newlyweds. Katrina was jealous as she looked at how stunning Anastasia looked in the gown and in the wedding dress she wore earlier. Mason, who was seated next to Katrina, was quiet and had two more glasses of wine. He recounted how young and delicate Anastasia looked five years ago, compared to how breathtaking she looked now. It was as if she had transformed into a red rose that had bloomed under the sun.

With her head held high, Anastasia smiled as she was showered with well wishes. Her gaze unintentionally fell on a woman who had her attention on Elliot. When she noticed that Anastasia was looking at her, the woman’s eyes flickered with panic but met Anastasia’s gaze and smiled at her the next second. It was none other than Lorelai Presgrave.

Even so, Anastasia maintained her smile and merely made a mental note on what she had observed since a woman’s intuition was remarkable and she trusted her intuition. However, today was an exceptional day where she wouldn’t keep her guard up. Elliot made her feel secure, and no one would be able to take away the blissful feeling that she had.

When they arrived at Harriet’s table, Elliot shot a look at Arthur and he immediately raised his glass after receiving the cue. Seeing that, Harriet stood up and officiated the banquet. She had been so overjoyed today that her doctor was on standby the whole day. However, her condition had been stable as she had no rapid shifts in mood. She asked the photographer to take pictures of them and especially requested for a few pictures to be taken with Anastasia as she had her arms around Anastasia. It was probably because she wanted to leave a trace since she was growing old so that she would be remembered even if she passed on.

“Child, you should eat more since you might not have time to do so when you receive the guests,” Harriet told Anastasia.

“Alright, Grandma.” Anastasia nodded and started eating elegantly.

“In a short while, I will get Brenda and Jonathan to accompany you as you receive the guests.”

“Don’t worry, Mom. We will be by their side,” Brenda replied as she smiled at her husband.

“Elliot, don’t worry, I can drink on your behalf if the guests make you drink, since I can hold my alcohol.” Jonathan laughed.

“Thank you, Jonathan.” Elliot laughed too.

After that, Elliot held Anastasia’s hand as they walked over to one of the tables where the Presgraves were seated. She noticed two of the elders who were prominent within the Presgrave Family.

“The bride looks beautiful! Elliot, you are really blessed!”

“Thank you, Granduncle Henry.”

“Congratulations to the both of you.”

Subsequently, the duo walked to the other tables to mingle with the guests. The guests were lucky because they were able to see Elliot smiling throughout the banquet. Before this, even the elders of the Presgrave Family feared Elliot, but today, he was all smiles as he glowed from within.

When they stopped by Arthur’s table, Jared happily went over and hugged his parents. Anastasia then took the opportunity to spoon some of his favorite food on his plate and whispered to him to eat well. Sophia was captivated by how gorgeous the newlyweds looked, especially Elliot, who was not only handsome but also had a good body shape and exuded a noble disposition. Moreover, he looked warm when he smiled.

As Spohia’s attention was captivated by the newlyweds, she heard a young man next to her coughing, as if reminding her to dial it back. Right after, she got slightly embarrassed and took a sip of tea as she looked down. At the same time, Anastasia noticed the beautiful lady next to Arthur, who seemed like a good match to him.

“Artie, introduce her to us.” Elliot smiled as he glanced at his good friend.

“There’s no need to.” Arthur shot a look at Sophia placidly.

Just then, Sophia stood up and greeted the bride and groom politely. “Mr. and Mrs. Presgrave, I’m Sophia Goodwin. I’m honored to attend your wedding banquet, and I wish the both of you a blessed and happy marriage.”

“Thank you!” Anastasia seemed to really like Sophia, and she was left with a good impression of the woman.

“Artie, look after Ms. Goodwin well and don’t neglect her.” Elliot patted Arthur’s back since this was the first time his good friend showed interest toward a lady. Truth was, he was glad about it.

Meanwhile, Lorelai, who was seated on the third row’s table, looked sullen as she raised her glass and took a sip of wine. She was distracted while the younger Presgraves were enjoying themselves.

“Miss Lorelai, what are you thinking about? You should be happy on such a lively occasion!” One of the Presgrave girls asked her.

“I’m really happy.” She tried to squeeze out a smile and held her forehead before saying, “I’m just tipsy.”

The juniors couldn’t tell what was going on in her head and just asked her to have less wine. Just then, Lorelai saw Elliot walking toward them with his hand around Anastasia’s waist. She immediately adjusted her hair, wanting to look her best in front of him. Although she was as pretty as Anastasia, she didn’t get to marry him since Anastasia was his one and only true love!

“Elliot.”

“Mr. Presgrave.”

Since Elliot was rather senior within the Presgrave Family, the juniors greeted him like how they usually did. He was addressed in a few different ways and it amused Anastasia, who giggled as she buried herself in his arms.

“Lorelai, do take good care of them.” Elliot raised his glass at her. Thereafter, Anastasia stretched her hand over and patted on her back, “Lorelai, have fun today.”

“Sure, I will.” Lorelai smiled as she nodded.

Soon after, the newlyweds went to the next table. Since Jonathan was a renowned businessman, he knew all the guests by heart and was able to mingle with everyone. The banquet hall was filled with laughter, which gave it a lively atmosphere.

Dissatisfied that she was seated at the last row, Katrina complained, “It’s a humiliation to be seated at the last row!”

Upon hearing that, Mason turned over and glared at her before whispering, “Stop with the nonsense. You’re lucky to be invited here tonight. Can’t you see that those who are here tonight are the elites?”

Not convinced by him, she grumbled, “Isn’t it obvious that they looked down on us?”

“You shouldn’t think that way. Even if you are seated at the other tables, do you think you can blend in with the billionaires? You’ll be uncomfortable around them since all of them are rich and powerful business leaders.” In truth, Mason was relieved that he wasn’t seated there.

Since the duo were currently seated together with the Presgrave Family, they had common topics to talk about. Very soon, Elliot and Anastasia approached their table. Katrina took the chance to look at the handsome Elliot for as long as she could since she wouldn’t have the chance to do so anymore in future.

“Mason, Katrina, thank you for attending my wedding,” Anastasia uttered earnestly.

“Anastasia and President Presgrave, congratulations to both of you.” Mason raised his glass.

Elliot clinked Mason’s glass and said, “Thank you.”

Upon hearing that, Katrina quickly chimed in, “President Presgrave, here’s to you and Anastasia.”

And so, Elliot raised his glass and drank up.

Finally, after they had greeted all the guests, it was already 12.20PM. They went back to their seats as lunch was served. The atmosphere was great, with lively music being played in the background. Since his parents are finally seated, Jared went over and sat next to them. The photographer managed to take photographs of the family. After lunch, Anastasia and some of the juniors of the Presgrave Family walked out to take some pictures together since the venue had been beautifully decorated.

As soon as she stepped out of the hall, she saw a woman in front of her. “Ms. Goodwin!” she called.

“Anastasia.” Sophia walked toward her, feeling flustered.

“Let’s take a picture together!”

“Really? Sure!” Sophia walked over and stood next to Anastasia excitedly.

After the brief photo session ended, Sophia was really happy that she was invited to take a picture, and it made her like Anastasia even more.

“If you’re not in a hurry to leave, you can stay on the island with Young Master Weiss for a few more days.” Anastasia told her.

“Sure!” Sophia nodded.

After lunch, all of the guests had gone back to rest in their rooms as there would be another banquet and a ball at night. Anastasia immediately removed her high heels to check her toes when she reached the mansion, since she had been wearing them the whole day.

“What’s wrong? Let me have a look.” Elliot kneeled down to get a closer look.

He could see that her pinky toe had a visible red mark on it. His heart ached as he rubbed her feet. “You shouldn’t wear high heels tonight.”

“No way. I will have to wear high heels since I’m wearing a gown.”

“In that case, I’ll prepare some hot water for you to soak your feet in and to relieve the tension.”

“It’s okay. You must be tired.” Anastasia knew how tired he must be, since he had been busy the whole day.

“No worries.” Elliot walked out and requested a foot basin from the room attendant, thereafter filling it with hot water for her foot bath.

His actions made Anastasia shy, but it warmed her heart at the same time. Elliot’s love for her could be seen and felt from his eyes, heart and through his actions.

While Anastasia was soaking her feet, she felt sleepy and yawned.

“You should take a nap after your foot bath since tonight’s gonna be hectic.”

“Yeah. What about you?” Anastasia stared at him. His attractive face was flushed red since he had had a lot to drink earlier on.

“I’m not tired.”

“Then accompany me as I nap?”

“Alright.”

After she changed into a set of comfortable pajamas, Anastasia got into bed while Elliot lay next to her until she fell asleep. She dozed off in no time. After that, he tucked her in and went downstairs to get some work done.

Meanwhile in Villa No. 58, Sophia was holding her phone and taking selfies in the garden. Since the gown looked nice on her, she naturally took more pictures.

Suddenly, her gaze shifted over to the living room and she saw a handsome man sitting on the couch. She secretly took a picture of him but as she did so, her phone’s camera shutter sound was heard because she forgot to put it on silent mode. The next second, Arthur lifted his head and the atmosphere instantly got awkward.

Sophia blused and she immediately hid her phone behind her before exclaiming, “Please don’t misunderstand. I was just taking a selfie. I didn’t take any pictures of you!”

Although Arthur didn’t say anything, he knew very well that she secretly took a picture of him.

She immediately dashed upstairs and when she got into her room, she checked the last picture that she took using her phone’s camera. Arthur was seen dressed in a black suit which he looked stunning in. At the same time, he exuded a mysterious aura. Content bel0ngs to Nôvel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

“Since he’s that handsome, he would do well if he joined the entertainment industry. Why didn’t he do so?” Sophia mumbled.

As she looked at the picture again, she sighed. “It’s a pity that he always has the poker face on. He’d look even more handsome if he smiled more.”

On the other hand, Nigel was really happy today. When he stepped out of the banquet hall with a bunch of people from the Presgrave Family, he was stopped by his mother.

That was why even if she would earn infamy for what she would do in future, she didn’t mind as she was willing to do it for Elliot. All these years when she was abroad, all she could think of was him. She would search for information regarding him and whenever she saw him on the financial news, she would be happy for the longest time.

In the evening when night fell, the evening banquet just got underway. Anastasia was dressed in a white fitted mermaid dress which accentuated her attractive curves. At the banquet, Elliot went to a few tables and chatted with the guests. A few of the major shareholders from the Presgrave Group were seated next to him. On the other hand, Anastasia made eye contact with Sophia while she was seated, and both of them smiled as their eyes met.

Since Lorelei didn’t have the appetite, she chatted with her peers while her attention was on Elliot, who was seated not far from her. Tonight, he was dressed in a black fitted suit and as he sat among older men, he exuded a calm disposition which didn’t match his age. He was all smiles that night and seeing him smile made her heart flutter.

Lorelai then turned her attention to Anastasia, who was chatting with Harriet. She was paying close attention to what Harriet was saying and when the elderly woman replied to her, the way she looked at Anastasia was full of love. Lorelai then thought that what her father said might be true. Back then when Anastasia’s mother rescued Elliot, she had already lost the battle since the position of Mrs. Presgrave was fated to be Ansatasia’s.

Just then, Lorelai noticed that Elliot got up to answer a call. She then seamlessly took her phone out, pretending to make a call.

“You guys start eating first. I’m going to make a call,” she whispered to her peer who was seated next to her. After that, she stood up and walked toward the door that Elliot exited.

The night view of the garden was enchanting. Paired with the vast sea view, it was a view worth admiring. After Elliot ended the brief call, he turned around to enter the hall.

Suddenly, he bumped into someone and immediately took a few steps back. Seeing that it was Lorelai, he smiled and greeted, “Lorelai.”

“I’m so sorry, Elliot. I hope I didn’t startle you! I was here to make a call.” Lorelai apologized.

“Not at all.”

With the phone in her hand, she tilted her head slightly and looked at him from head to toe. “Elliot, you looked dashing tonight!”

“Thank you,” Elliot replied with a smile.

Just then, she got close to him and said, “Elliot, your tie is slanted. Let me…”

As she reached her hands out trying to adjust his tie, Elliot took a step back dexterously and said, “Lorelai, I can do it myself.”

Right after, he adjusted his tie and walked past her before saying, “I’ll be going in.”

She was so nervous that she was holding her breath while a sense of astonishment flashed across her eyes. At the same time, she was disappointed.

When Elliot entered the hall, he went back to his seat and sat next to Anastasia. Knowing that he had been drinking the entire night, she placed some food on his plate and urged him to have something to eat.

Elliot then smiled and ate as instructed. Harriet, who was sitting next to them, was happy to see that. If she wasn’t around next time, she knew that someone would be there to take good care of this grandchild of hers.

There was another activity planned at around 9.00PM that night, which was a night sea tour. Three luxury yachts had been prepared to bring the guests out to sea.

Since noon, Jacob had been noticing Sophia. Up till now, he was still holding in the urge to go say hi to her, as Arthur was by her side. Jacob didn’t want to offend Arthur, as the latter’s identity was rather mysterious and unusual. However, Jacob was dissatisfied at how Arthur was having Sophia to himself.

Finally, he came to a conclusion that she didn’t belong to anyone and that he had the right to pursue her. At last, Arthur left his seat and Sophia was left sitting alone. Jacob mustered all his courage and walked toward her.

“Sophia.” He grabbed onto the back of the chair as he greeted her.

“Jacob.” She greeted him politely.

“Sophia, there’s a night sea tour later on. Would you like to join us? My friends are going too and you should come along!”

“I-I want to go, but…” Sophia was in a difficult position as she knew that Arthur definitely wouldn’t let her do so.

“It’s a rare opportunity, Sophia. All the youngsters will be there. It’s going to be so much fun.”

With a nod, she answered, “Let me think about it.”

“Okay. We’re leaving at nine and I’ll come to you by then.” As Jacob said that, a person sat down on the chair that he was holding.

It was Arthur; he had returned.

An awkward Jacob released his grip on the chair and said to Sophia, “I’ll be waiting for you, Sophia!”

She saw Jacob return to his seat, and only then did she turn to look at the man beside her. “Young Master Weiss, can I discuss something with you?”

“Go ahead,” Arthur replied coldly.

“I heard that there’s a night sea tour tonight. Can I go?” she asked softly.

“No.” He rejected her without thinking twice.

So merciless! She sighed upon hearing that. Although she knew that he wouldn’t agree to it, she couldn’t help but show her disappointment. “But I really want to go.”

Arthur pretended not to hear her and continued drinking his wine.

It was already late, and those elders had already left and gone to rest. On the contrary, the youngsters had just started their nightlife. The firework show tonight, as well as the night sea tour, were all activities worth going to.

Jared was behaving well tonight too. He followed Nigel back to the man’s mansion since there were his favorite Legos and games there.

On the other hand, Anastasia had come to Mason’s table and was chatting with him. No one knew where Katrina went and the other Presgraves had already gone back. Anastasia and Mason were the only two left sitting at the table.

“I hope you’re having a good time, Mason. I apologize if there’s any inconvenience caused.” Anastasia was extremely busy today, so she couldn’t talk much with him.

“I’m glad enough to be able to participate in your wedding. There’s no need to give me special treatment,” Mason answered with a smile.

Then, she poured a glass of wine and raised the glass before saying, “A toast to you, Mason.”

He raised his glass and clinked hers before drinking a few sips.

After looking around the lively wedding hall, she sighed with emotion and said, “I’m where I am today because of your help and encouragement back then.”

“Don’t say that. You’re a tough person. I believe that even if it were not for me, you would have made it through that period too.” Mason didn’t dare to take the credit.

“No. It’s you who helped me to become who I am today, allowed me to meet the love of my life and encouraged my son to find his biological father,” she said seriously.

Anastasia had exquisite makeup tonight, and after drinking some wine, her cheeks were flushed, which made her extra beautiful. She was so beautiful that people couldn’t take their eyes off her.

At a table not far away from them, Elliot was talking with the guests, but his gaze was fixed on his wife. He chugged the glass of red wine melancholically when he saw her smiling so gently and brightly in front of another man on their wedding day.

However, he couldn’t say anything as Mason was really the one who helped Anastasia overcome her dark times. Elliot should be thanking that man, which was why he was enduring the frustration.

Just as he saw his wife raising her glass for the third time with Mason, Elliot realized he couldn’t take it anymore; he went straight to them with a wine glass in his hand.

“Sweetheart,” he called her calmly.

Anastasia lifted her head and realized Elliot was there. With her chin propped on her hands, she murmured, “Are we leaving now?”

“I’m here to make a toast to Mr. Sullivan.” Elliot clinked his glass with Mason’s. “Thank you for helping my wife during those days.”

“It’s nothing, President Presgrave.” Mason stood up immediately to drink with him.

After that, Elliot could only use one reason to whisk his wife away. “You’re drunk, sweetheart. We should head back and rest now.” As he said that, he placed his arm around her waist and brought her

to the main table. After excusing themselves from the elders there, he held her hand and brought her out of the hall.

And so, they made their way back to the mansion, the sounds from the banquet hall growing further away from them. Currently, the street lights shone brightly as they lit up the road. Anastasia had drank several glasses of wine tonight, so her eyes were getting glassy and her cheeks were flushed red since she couldn’t hold her liquor. At this moment, her coquettishness was fully displayed.

“I’ll take care of Mr. Sullivan’s side from now on. You don’t need to pay too much attention to him and keep meeting him,” Elliot suddenly said.

While blinking her eyes, Anastasia asked, “Why can’t I meet him? I even want to have lunch or dinner more often with him in the future.”

“Mrs. Presgrave!” Elliot held her waist possessively and looked as though he was furious, but didn’t dare to show it.

Anastasia wore a grin on her face after seeing her plan had succeeded. She put her arms around his neck and asked, “Are you jealous?”

He then held the back of her head with his big palm and pressed her head into his chest before admitting, “Yes. I’m jealous. The moment you smiled at him in the banquet hall, I was already jealous.”

At this moment, Anastasia slightly regretted teasing him. Since she had already become his wife, she would keep her distance from other men from now on.

She rested her head on his chest and counted his heartbeat. “I was just joking. Don’t you know how much I love you?”

“I know.” He stroked her long hair while looking at her with his gentle but slightly frustrated gaze. Just then, the woman in his chest lifted her head. The tipsiness in her eyes could be seen clearly under the light, which made her extra seductive.

After that, Anastasia’s hand was held by Elliot’s big palm again, and he brought her to walk under the streetlights. They then made their way back to their bridal villa.

“I’ve already bought this mansion so we can come here often for vacation,” Elliot announced.

With a nod, she answered, “Great!”

Suddenly, Elliot reminded her, “It’s our wedding night. Don’t you think we should do something?”

Hearing that, she smiled shyly. “But I’m tired! Aren’t you tired?”

How would Elliot be tired? He had saved so much energy for tonight. “You’re not allowed to say you’re tired tonight, Mrs. Presgrave,” he purred in a husky tone.

Through her big eyes, a stream of frailty shone through her coquettishness. “You don’t love me anymore. I’m so tired, but you’re not letting me rest.”

Elliot was seduced by that adorable face buried in his chest, and he touched the tip of Anastasia’s nose and said, “You’ll know later whether I love you or not.”

Anastasia knew what Elliot was thinking the moment she saw his dark gaze. Oh no, I shouldn’t have excited him. I’m so gonna get it tonight! At once, she took a step back from his embrace and ran toward the direction of the mansion, as though she was running away from him. “No! I don’t want to know!”

How could Elliot stay still when he saw his running bride? With his long legs, he chased after her in a few steps and hugged her in his arms, thereafter picking her up and striding into the mansion. On the other hand, the woman in his arms was laughing happily.

As soon as they reached the balcony on the second floor, Anastasia saw the fireworks that were covering half of the sky. That became the best view of the night.

When she was enjoying the fireworks, a domineering arm came from behind and tugged at her shoulder. He then held her face gently and said, “I love you, Mrs. Presgrave.”

She reached out her hands and put them around Elliot’s shoulders. “I love you too, Mr. Presgrave.” Then, she stood on her toes and gave him a kiss.

…

On the other hand, at the jetty, a group of youngsters were boarding the yacht to go for the night sea tour. The luxurious mega-yacht was lit up, and it had all sorts of alcoholic beverages and desserts on board. The most exciting thing was the chemistry between these youngsters, which would definitely make this night an unforgettable night.

At the jetty, Jacob was looking at the time on his watch, waiting for Sophia. For him, he wasn’t interested in any of the women there tonight, as Sophia was the only one he wanted to see.

At this moment, a figure walked toward his direction, and her erogenous attire shocked him. It was Katrina, along with a young man beside her. She took a glimpse at Jacob, who was beside his sports car. After all, that sports car behind him was his charming point.

Seeing that, she knew that she had finally found her target for tonight. Just then, the young man who came with her greeted Jacob, “Why haven’t you gotten on board, Jacob?”

“I’m waiting for someone. You two should go in first,” Jacob said while trying hard to retain his patience.

“The yacht will be leaving in 10 minutes. Ask your friends to hurry up!”

Jacob was growing anxious for real this time, as it looked like Sophie wasn’t going to come. However, he still hadn’t given up yet. After finding the phone number, he dialed the intercom of Villa No. 58.

At that moment, Sophia, who happened to return from the dinner, heard the telephone ringing in the living room and answered it. “Hello. Who’s on the line, please?”

“It’s me, Sophia. Aren’t you coming?” Jacob asked anxiously.

“I’m sorry, Jacob. I can’t make it for the event. Have fun!” She smiled in embarrassment.

“Oh—come on! I was looking forward to your arrival. In fact, I’ve been waiting for you to come.”

“I’m flattered to hear that, Jacob, but please don’t wait for me. Don’t forget to have fun,” she replied.

“Sophia, can we grab breakfast together tomorrow morning? I’m leaving tomorrow, and I don’t know when we’ll meet again.”

“Um… Can we talk about that tomorrow?” Sophia was dismayed with her tight schedule. After hanging up the call with Jacob, she returned the telephone to the cradle and let out a sigh.

“It looks like someone can’t wait to go cruising on the sea.” A man’s deep voice was suddenly heard from behind the woman.

A startled Sophia immediately turned around and saw Arthur walking in. She then quickly hid her emotions and replied, “Nah, not really. I’m tired by the way, so I’m going to head upstairs and take some rest.”

As soon as she reached the stairs, she heard the man’s voice from behind her again.

“I’ll meet you at the door in ten minutes.”

With her hand on the handrail, she turned around and asked, “Where are we going?”

“A night cruise.” The man puckered his lips in response.

Sophia’s eyes lit up when she heard that. She then exclaimed in surprise and excitement. “Wait… What? For real? I can tag along too?” The next second, she rushed upstairs, wondering whether she should change her outfit for the occasion, only to realize there was not enough time for her to do so.

Therefore, she only fixed her make-up a little before she headed downstairs.

In the meantime, Arthur was sitting on the couch while waiting for Sophia, whereupon they both got into the car and made their way toward the docks. As they were on their way, her mind was full of images of the beautiful seaview that she was admiring on the cruise. After all, she hadn’t gone on a cruise at night, which she believed was going to be fun.

Furthermore, she would be even happier if there were going to be a lot of people because she liked the lively atmosphere that was full of high energy.

Once they arrived, the duo was greeted by a huge luxury private yacht moored at the bright dock. Sophia then alighted from the car and walked toward the yacht behind Arthur, all the while feeling a little bewildered at the sight of the desolated place. Shouldn’t there be a crowd of people who are going to cruise with us? Why is it so quiet? Where is everyone? The next moment, she was stunned when she entered the grand-looking cabin of the yacht. Oh my god! This is absolutely luxurious! The designs definitely deserve a seven-star rating! How magnificent this is!

“I thought there were going to be a lot of people. Why is there no one else?” Sophia asked in confusion.

Arthur replied lightly, “They are gone.” He furrowed his eyebrows and asked, “What’s wrong? Aren’t you happy to go cruising on the sea with me?”

“O-Of course, I am happy with that.” She forced a smile to hide the surprise within her upon realizing that he had the whole yacht booked.

Soon, the yacht sailed away from the dock toward the sea just as the fireworks were lit up and shot up to the sky from afar. Seeing the magnificent sight, Sophia excitedly scampered to the deck and placed her palms together delightedly. Not long after that, Arthur also came to the deck, and he happened to notice Sophia’s curvaceous figure in the illuminating moonlight and the fireworks in the sky.

At the same time, the blowing sea breeze gently grazed the woman’s dress, carrying her skirt with it as her long hair billowed in the wind.

On the other hand, the man kept his eyes upon the lady despite the glaring fireworks, as if she was more attractive and eye-catching than the grand fireworks. Thanks to the training Sophia received through dancing since she was little, she had managed to develop a perfectly slim figure. Although she didn’t take much pride in that particularly, her curvy stature made her so attractive that no man could look away once he set his eyes on her.

Suddenly, Sophia tripped on an abrupt jerk that was either caused by the yacht’s short burst of acceleration or the rough tidal waves beneath them. The next second, she lost her balance and staggered backward. “Ahhh!” She thought she was about to land on her behind and she exclaimed in horror, but at that moment, she felt a strong arm wrapped around her waist shortly before she felt her head resting on someone’s firm chest.

Feeling relieved and secure, she knew who just saved her from the embarrassing fall, and she blushed bashfully. Then, she stood on her feet clumsily and thanked Arthur for his help. “Thank you.” After that, she took off her high heels and put them aside, thereafter walking barefoot on the deck so that she wouldn’t have to worry about falling again.

At the sight of Sophia’s reaction, Arthur curled his lips upward, complimenting her deep down for being smart enough to take off her high heels. In the meantime, Sophia caught a glimpse of two yachts not far away and noticed the bright lights on them, along with the loud music and cheers. Thinking it was Jacob and the others on those yachts, Sophia immediately approached the handrail on the edge of the deck that was closest to them.

On the other hand, Jacob happened to be catching some air on the deck when he saw an approaching yacht with a woman standing on it. Is that Sophia? Wondering if the lady was who he thought it was, he shouted, “Sophia!”

“Jacob!” Sophia waved at Jacob when she saw him.

Meanwhile, Jacob was thinking of going over to the yacht to accompany Sophia, only to see another man emerging from behind her, which forced him to give up the idea. At that moment, Arthur was seen wearing a white suit, and it was as if he was the charming prince who was protecting Sophia from behind. Soon, the yacht that Sophia was on sped away and quickly disappeared from sight, because the yachts that Jacob and his friends were on wouldn’t sail any further away from the dock. After the yacht left in a hurry, an annoyed Jacob clenched his fists and wondered who Arthur was.

As soon as the other two yachts were left far behind, Sophia entered the luxury cabin and sat down after having enough of the windy breeze. In the meantime, Arthur was enjoying himself with the desserts and beverages on the table while sitting on the couch with his legs crossed.

“When are we going back, Mr. Weiss?” Sophia curiously asked.

“Tomorrow.” Arthur figured he should start looking into the matter in which he had to choose a place where his late grandfather’s grave could be built.

“That’s good to hear! Can I go back home to visit my parents, then?” Sophia beseeched the man.

“You can give a call back home, but you can’t leave,” Arthur replied.

“Please, I just need half a day.” Sophia insisted on going home.

“From now on, I’m going to teach you how to be a qualified maid, Sophia. Until I’m satisfied with your performance, you will not be permitted to go anywhere.” Arthur jutted his chin, his eyes filled with indifference and nonchalance.

Sophia was stunned because she didn’t expect the man to say something so harsh to her. After all, she thought the reason he took her out for a cruise on the sea was because he was softened up a little to her. “Is what I found earlier really so important to you?” The lady asked.

“That’s a one and only heirloom that has been passed down to me through generations in my family.” Arthur squinted, gritting his teeth. “So, do you think that’s important to me?”

Upon hearing the man’s reply, Sophia felt cold chills running down her spine. Oh dear! I guess I’m screwed for misplacing his heirloom! “Alright, I’ll give it back to you in a year.” She tried to appease the man despite the panicky feeling that was overwhelming her on the inside. How am I going to afford that? I doubt I could make that much cash even if I sleep around for money. Suddenly, she shivered from head to toe when the chilly sea breeze blew amidst the cold weather at night. As she felt goosebumps all over her skin, she subconsciously wrapped her arms around herself to keep warm.

Meanwhile, Arthur noticed what was going on and took off his coat, which he threw at her. “Put it on.” Despite his indifferent tone, his actions were rather heartwarming.

“Thank you.” Sophia proceeded to put on the man’s coat. The warmth wrapped around her body, as well as Arthur’s unique and pleasant scent. When she caught the scent of that, her face blushed in embarrassment. After spending more than an hour cruising on the sea, they both sailed back to the dock. At the same time, Sophia stood on the deck and looked at the man beside her. “Can I shout? Just to vent?”

Thinking a shout at the wide sea would be a good relief, Arthur decided to go along with Sophia. “Go ahead.”

Sophia then made a gesture of a trumpet with her hands and began shouting at some place far away. “Mr. Weiss, you’re so freaking handsome!”

Arthur was speechless upon hearing Sophia’s words. Is there something wrong with this woman?

“You’re the most handsome man I’ve ever seen, Mr. Weiss!” Sophia shouted at the sea as she wanted to amuse the man.

Sophia turned to look at Arthur and asked, “Hey, do you know what the ocean said to the shore?”

He narrowed his eyes as he pondered on this, and his curiosity was piqued when he could not think of an answer. “What did the ocean say to the shore?”

“Nothing, it just waved!” She burst into laughter, clearly amused by her own silly humor.

Just then, Arthur sputtered and started laughing, and at once, the moon lost all its beauty.

Sophia gaped at him with wide eyes, entirely stunned by his pearly whites and his open smile. He looked carefree and captivating.

In truth, he was rather astonished by how her laughter, which was in no way demure or ladylike, only prompted his own. Son of a gun, he thought.

At that moment, her brows raised in amusement as she tilted her head to one side and appraised him openly. No woman had ever looked at him like he was a piece of art on full public display before. Because of that, he grew self-conscious and quickly asked, “What are you staring at?”

She giggled. “You. You’re quite the looker.”

As though wanting to get back at her for making him laugh earlier, he scoffed and pointed out haughtily, “Yeah, and I’m way out of your league.”

She blinked at him and she couldn’t help arguing, “I never wanted you to be in my league in the first place.”

Arthur turned to head back into the cabin, but that was when he heard Sophia mutter triumphantly, “I think it’d be more accurate to say I’m way out of your league. Always will be.”

He stopped in his tracks and threw an icy look at her over his shoulder. “Please, I can easily make you mine whenever I want.”

She blushed, completely caught off guard by his confidence, but she did not want to lose either. Her quick wit made her retort, “And by the time you make me yours, wouldn’t you be mine as well? So, I win either way.”

He was starting to think that this was her idea of a pick-up line. He scoffed primly and refused to be lured into this ridiculous banter. “Don’t flatter yourself. I don’t actually care about making you mine.”

“Which then brings us back to the question of who’s out of whose league,” she said without missing a beat as a devious smirk tugged on her lips. “But it looks like we’ve come to a draw.”

Arthur pursed his lips into a grim line and did not try to continue this debate with her.

“You know, Young Master Weiss, I don’t think I ever got your name. Think we’re close enough to be on a first-name basis, yes?” Sophia asked, leaning forward as if to pick up on the most salacious gossip.

Bemused, he did not withhold this information and replied, “The name’s Arthur.”

Arthur. Arthur Weiss. She tried it out in her head and decided that it had a good ring to it, then pressed further, “So, did you grow up in the city or are you from out of town?”

“I’ve been living abroad with my family since I was little,” he said.

“I bet you were born with a silver spoon in your mouth,” she followed up cheerily.

“Why do you say that?”

“Because you’re one of the most prim-and-proper men I’ve ever met!”

Arthur had never heard that description being used on him, and he wondered briefly if he should be insulted.

Meanwhile, on another yacht, Katrina had her eyes set on Jacob. She had heard that he was the second young master of the Presgrave Family, and while his fortune or status was not as impressive as Elliot’s, he still made for a good target.

“Young Master Jacob, you don’t look very happy. Care for some company?” Katrina slinked over while holding a glass of wine in each hand. She was a model with a slender figure that had curves in all the right places and a pretty face to boot. Besides, Jacob was never one to refuse beautiful company.

“Sure,” he said agreeably.

They went out on the deck and leaned against the railing as they sipped their wine. At this moment, the yacht swayed, and Katrina had oh-so-naturally stumbled into Jacob’s arms as she gasped, “Oh, my!”

He gripped her waist to steady her. “Are you okay?”

“I accidentally spilled my wine,” she said mournfully as she tugged on the neckline of her dress. “How does the damage look, Young Master Jacob?”

Jacob’s gaze darkened at once. He was sure that Katrina was doing this on purpose, and she had pulled the neckline so far down that she might as well dispose of the dress entirely. That said, he had to

admit that he was very much attracted to her show of skin.

“I have a couple of evening dresses back at my place. Why don’t you come by after we get off this yacht and pick one that you like?” he offered in a husky voice, the implication clear in his words.

“That would be great,” she said brightly with a knowing look in her eyes.

Meanwhile, over at the dock, Sophia alighted from the yacht after Arthur and walked up to the car his bodyguards had brought around. It was only during the drive back to the villa that they realized it was already past midnight.

After arriving at the villa, she was so exhausted that she took a quick shower and hopped into bed. While she slept, he tossed and turned in his bed in the master bedroom. He was not one to stay up late, but for some reason, sleep would not come to him.

The images of Sophia’s ready grin from tonight flashed across his mind, and he found himself thinking about the way she made fun of him openly and the way she smiled at him without pretense.