Chapter 696
“Are you breaking up with me?” Edward’s voice was low and intense. “Is that it? Had your fun and now you’re just done with me?”
I froze. “I’m not messing with you. I just think… this is better for both of us. I don’t want you to have to go up against your family because of me. There’s really no need for that.”
“You only think it’s pointless if you don’t love me,” Edward said, turning his back to me, looking completely shattered. “If you didn’t care, breaking up would be easy for you. Victoria, you’re not the kind of person who treats love like some game.”
I got up, noticing how his fingers were curled so tight. I reached out and brushed his back–he was so tense, his muscles felt like iron under my hand.
“Edward, if you ever come back to see me, it’s not like I’m saying we can’t hang out,” I said, thinking about that 100-million-dollar villa he gave me, and the fact that my brother works at his company. Honestly, Edward’s my VIP connection–no way am I letting go of that.
Who knows, I might need his help with work someday. He’s basically the best kind of hookup you could ask for.
Edward spun around, his eyes flashing with irritation. “What am I, your personal boy toy at your beck and call?”
I blinked, then couldn’t help but laugh. “Trust me, I wouldn’t dare.”
Seeing that sly look in my eyes, the anger on Edward’s face finally faded. “Victoria, is this how you reeled in all your exes?”
I stared at him, totally caught off guard.
“You really know how to play the game–pushing me away when things get hot, letting go right when I’m falling for you. Even though I know you’re not really into it, I still fall for it every damn time. Victoria, are you just waiting for the day I’m on my knees, begging for you?” Edward gritted out, pinching my earlobe.
I looked at him, completely baffled. That’s not what I was going for at all.
Honestly, I was just flipping the script–using the same tricks guys always use on girls.
Arguing with Edward was basically impossible. The moment I tried to get tough, he’d just soften up and give in, and honestly, he always knew exactly how to calm me down. A few words from him, and I’d find myself giving in, completely disarmed by his charm.
We hung around the villa until nightfall, and after lunch, Edward just couldn’t keep his hands off me–wanted another go. Honestly, whoever said men slow down after 25 clearly never met Edward.
When it comes to this kind of thing, Edward’s got way more energy than I ever expected.
Back in the city, Edward and I went our separate ways–he had some stuff to take care of, and I headed back to my apartment.
8:23 Sat, Sep 20
Chapter 696
Elaine wasn’t home yet, and the apartment was quiet tonight. I curled up on the couch, getting lost in a book.
In my previous life, I always thought reading was a waste of time, but now? I see things differently. Books make you wiser, no matter what kind you pick up–they always give you some kind of strength. And honestly, the real charm of words is something only those who truly dive in can understand.
It was after ten when I got out of the shower and heard my phone ringing.
I thought it was probably Elaine, but when I checked, it was a number from back home.
And it was someone I didn’t know.
I hesitated for a moment, but I had a pretty good guess who it might be.
Ryan?
If it was Nathan or Jared, I’d know their numbers–so it can’t be them.
Ryan would never use his own phone to call me, not with his status.
I didn’t answer–I just let the phone ring, thinking, ‘Let’s see how many times he’ll try to call.’
By the seventh call, my nerves were shot–I was seriously getting irritated.
‘Alright, let’s see what he wants. If he doesn’t spell everything out, I’m ready to give him a piece of my mind,’ I thought.
“Hello,” I said, my tone flat.
“You knew it was me, so you ignored the call, didn’t you?” Ryan’s voice came through, a little tight with annoyance.