Chapter 43

The handwriting was different; it looked masculine.

“I will.”

It replied to the previous line.

Lauren’s fingertips itched, a subtle unease settling in her heart. She closed the book and took a sip of water, calming herself.

At that moment, Charlie entered from outside, wearing a black suit and carrying documents. He moved quickly, as if in a hurry. He nodded to Lauren and rushed upstairs. Then, he hesitated, stopping beside her, his gaze falling on the book on the coffee table. Lauren softly explained, “Daphne brought it to keep me occupied.”

Charlie ignored her, bending to pick up the book. He patted it carefully and held it protectively. He seemed to cherish it greatly.

“I’ll ask Daphne to get you another book,” he said before heading upstairs.

Hearing Charlie’s voice, Daphne hurried from the kitchen.

Charlie turned to her. “Don’t touch this book again.”

Daphne nodded repeatedly. “I’m sorry, Mr. Frank. I won’t touch it again.”

Lauren, sitting on the sofa, felt embarrassed. Daphne had only meant to provide a distraction, and Lauren felt sorry for her. This book must be very important to him, Lauren thought.

While Lauren considered apologizing to Charlie, he instructed Daphne to clean the garage. What’s wrong with the garage? I just cleaned it this morning, Daphne thought in confusion. But she decided to check, as Mr. Frank had instructed.

Passing Lauren, Daphne said, “I’m sorry, Miss Bennett. I’ll bring you another book later.”

“It’s okay,” Lauren said, waving her hand. Remembering Charlie’s cold demeanor, she thought, It’s best not to touch his things.

“Help yourself,” Daphne said, pushing a fruit plate toward Lauren. “Mr. Frank will probably return for his documents; I heard he has an important meeting today. He won’t be long.”

Lauren smiled but said nothing.

After Daphne left for the garage, Lauren was alone in the living room. She checked her watch; it was almost noon, and Leo still hadn’t returned. Feeling bored, she unlocked her phone to search for literature online. As she pulled out her phone, a loud “bang” startled her.

It came from upstairs!

Lauren looked up anxiously, wondering if something had happened to Charlie. While hesitating whether to go upstairs, another “bang” sounded, followed by Charlie’s moan. Without further delay, Lauren went upstairs.