Chapter 41: Tacit Understanding

“You two are picking on ordinary people just because you're wealthy and powerful! Everyone, look! The Sullivan heiress is a bully!”

Sandy refused to clean Jared's clothes, unable to overcome her contempt. In the past, he had always catered to her. She couldn't bring herself to humble herself before him. She feigned weakness, hoping bystanders would help.

Slap!

Before she could get help, Josephine slapped her hard.

“Enough nonsense! Clean it up now!” Josephine demanded.

Sandy touched her face and looked at the crowd. No one intervened; some even fled. Defeated, she reluctantly took a tissue and wiped the spit from Jared's clothes.

Jared smirked. As she reached for him, he dodged her.

“I’m afraid you’ll dirty my clothes,” he said, then wiped himself with a tissue.

“How dare you?” Sandy gasped, speechless with rage.

“Let’s go!”

Taking Josephine’s hand, Jared left the mall. Sandy fumed. Gritting her teeth, she spat, “You bastard, I’ll never forgive you!”

Jared was already gone.

Later, he said to Josephine, “You’re feisty, but not appropriate for a Sullivan heiress. This could damage your reputation.”

“I don’t care! She makes me furious!” Josephine said, still angry. “Were you scared?”

Jared smiled. “No! You’re appealing when you’re angry.”

“Shall I do that every day?” Josephine asked, her eyes gleaming.

“No, no…” Jared waved his hands, changing the subject. “Where are you taking me, all dressed up like this?”

“Mr. Grange is hosting a huge banquet at the Glamor Hotel. Many important people will be there. It’s extremely difficult to get in—they don’t even allow families. But it’s my family’s hotel, so I can bring you in. You can meet influential people!” Josephine explained.

Jared was amused and dismayed. Walter was hosting the banquet for him, and Josephine was sneaking him in.

“Why are you laughing? It’s serious! Mr. Grange is introducing a friend, and everyone wants to attend. Without Glamor Hotel, I couldn’t get you in! Make a good impression!” Josephine urged.

“I will,” Jared chuckled, concealing his surprise.

He sensed a shift in their feelings. Though unspoken, their awareness of each other's emotions was tacit.