Adam stopped in his tracks and turned to look at Carly. She had inhaled the seductive scent, and a wave of heat surged through her body. Her delicate face flushed a deep red. She bit her lip, her gaze soft and alluring as she looked up at him.

Lucy spoke again. “Mr. Alvarez, this is exactly when Carly needs you. Surely, you wouldn’t leave her now, would you?”

Adam’s sharp eyes locked on Carly, but he didn't respond. Carly slipped off the bed and threw herself into his arms. Lucy and Hayden exchanged triumphant glances before quietly closing the door.

Carly's silky straps slid from her shoulder, leaving her soft and alluring shoulder exposed. Her eyes filled with adoration. “Adam, I knew it. I’ve always been the one you truly care about.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned in on tiptoe, aiming for his lips. However, she missed. Adam turned away just in time. Her body stiffened for a moment before she tried again, only for him to sidestep her once more.

He reached out and pushed her away. “Carly, let this be the last time. Don’t ever pull these dirty tricks on me again. Otherwise, you’ll face the consequences.”

That calm yet deliberate phrase sent a chill through Carly. Her flushed cheeks paled instantly. It was a warning aimed at the entire Tate family. Adam brushed past her and headed for the door.

Was he leaving? At this moment, of all times, he was going to abandon her? What was she supposed to do now?

Carly hugged Adam tightly from behind. “Adam, please. Don’t leave me. I need you.”

“Carly, let go!” Adam warned.

He froze mid-step.

Carly’s lips curved into a knowing smile. No matter the situation, calling him that always worked. It was his biggest weakness.

She stepped around to face him, then gave him a firm push, sending him sprawling onto the bed. “Sir, don’t you want me anymore?” Adam’s muscles tensed like coiled steel. He couldn’t resist Carly.

Carly leaned in, her lips brushing against his.

Celine had returned to the hospital, keeping Nathan company in his VIP ward. Nathan had a business matter he needed to discuss with Adam. Taking out his phone, he said, “Let me give Adam a call.”

He dialed, but nobody picked up. Frowning, he tried two more times but still received no answer. “What’s going on? Why isn’t he picking up?”

Celine, who had been soaking a towel in a basin of warm water, remained calm. Her long lashes cast shadows over her cheeks as she said softly, “Mr. Alvarez is very busy tonight. You should try again tomorrow.”

“Busy with what?” Nathan asked in confusion.

“With Carly, most likely. The effects of the seductive candle had undoubtedly taken hold by now, and Carly and Adam were likely together in bed at that time. Of course, he wouldn’t be answering phone calls.”

Celine handed the towel to Nathan, changing the subject. “You should rest, Mr. Lynch. You’re still recovering.”

Half an hour later, the ward grew quiet as Nathan drifted into a deep sleep. Sitting on the couch nearby, Celine picked up her phone and began texting Perry.