Chapter 986

Ralph was startled, but quickly recovered, remembering her earlier affection. He dismissed it, saying, "Okay, fine. I know you don't mean anything by it, and you're not an easy girl. Look, we're getting married soon. Shouldn't we get acquainted? We'll soon be husband and wife; intimacy will naturally follow." He rose, approaching her with open arms.

Just as he reached for her, she lifted a foot, blocking him. Heather crossed her arms, staring coldly.

"Ralph, this is my last warning. If you come near me again, I'll kick you out!"

"What's wrong, Heather? Weren't we fine before? You used to like my kisses…"

"Shut up!"

She braced herself, kicking him forcefully. Ralph flew backward, hitting the table. He groaned; his back ached severely. He couldn't understand her sudden change.

"I told you to shut up! Get out of my room! Don't come in unless I invite you!" Heather commanded, back ramrod straight.

"I…" Ralph stood, pain radiating through him. He wanted to curse but saw the icy look on her face. He couldn't offend her yet; he hadn't married her and secured the Riggs family property. He would endure this capricious woman's tantrums for now.

He straightened his clothes, smiling. "Okay, fine. I'll leave! Don't be angry; it's bad for your health. You stay here in peace. I won't touch you unless you want me to. Just tell me if you need anything. Make yourself at home."

Watching him leave with a sullen expression, Heather felt disgusted.

"Wait a minute!"

Ralph's spirits lifted. She's playing hard to get! he thought. He peered in. "What's wrong?"

"No one, including you, can enter this room without my permission!" she said coldly.

"...Okay, I got it."

Ralph cursed her inwardly, slamming the door in resentment.

Alone, Heather searched the room, finding no cameras or recording devices. This surprised her; she was accustomed to being vigilant, disabling surveillance equipment. The lack of monitoring at the Russell Estate was unexpected.

The truth was, she didn't fully grasp the Russell family dynamic. Except for Alexander, they were consumed by internal strife, leaving them vulnerable to outsiders. Their focus was entirely on the advantageous marriage with the Riggs family. Unaware of Heather's true intentions, they hadn't bothered to spy on her or suspect her. This lack of surveillance was fortuitous.

She stood on the balcony, looking down at the sprawling Russell house. Its size, coupled with secret passages, basements, and hidden compartments, made a thorough search daunting. She needed a better plan.