Chapter 1190:

The next morning, Jayden went to the cafeteria for breakfast. Amanda was there, waiting. Seeing him carrying two breakfast trays irritated her. Approaching with a bright smile, she said, “Jayden, getting breakfast too? What a coincidence! Want to eat together?” His expression darkened. “Nah, I’m taking this back to my room.” Unbothered, Amanda persisted, “Is that other tray for Elyse? Why do you have to bring her breakfast? Can’t she come here herself?” Jayden gave her a cold look. “Who are you to judge her?” He left.

Amanda stood stunned. “Imagine being shameless enough to hang around after the actual girlfriend shows up. Some people just lack any self-respect.” Hearing sneering behind her, Amanda turned to see men from her last mission, watching mockingly. They still held a grudge. “What was that? ‘Actual girlfriend’? Did Jayden say it himself? Has he ever confirmed that? If not, then you’re just making baseless assumptions. If you’re all so eager to gossip, maybe you should quit your job.”

Fuming, the men surrounded her. Amanda didn’t flinch. Crossing her arms, she sneered, “I’ll say it again. If you don’t understand, maybe you don’t need ears at all.” One threw a punch. Amanda felt fear, but Hardy intervened, blocking the attack. He pulled Amanda aside, his gaze steely. “Do me a favor. Let her go—just this once.”

The man who threw the punch sneered, “Who is she to you? Why are you so protective of her? Don’t you see how clueless she is?” Hardy sighed. “I know. But I owe her one favor. I can’t just stand by and ignore her.” Someone said, “Forget it. Let’s cut Hardy some slack. But mark my words, Hardy—teach her a lesson. If she crosses us again, she’s fair game.” “Appreciate it. Drinks are on me next time,” Hardy nodded.

Once they left, Hardy’s expression darkened. He scowled, “Do you have to stir up trouble everywhere you go? Are you only content once someone’s finally had enough of you?” Amanda shot back, “They started it! I’m the one who got hurt here.” Hardy laughed dryly. “Oh, I saw. Chasing after Jayden like that. They mocked you because of that little stunt. If you hadn’t done it, they wouldn’t have had a reason.” Amanda’s face tightened. “Whose side are you on, anyway? Or have you forgotten your promise to my brother to look out for me?” Hardy raised an eyebrow. “A promise to look out for you isn’t a contract to be your lifelong babysitter.” Annoyance flickered across Amanda’s face. “Supporting me isn’t babysitting! You’re the one turning this into an insult.”