Chapter 47
Adrian Sinclair's voice was soft, but his gaze remained fixed on Anna Ross.
"It's not for me to live here."
Chloe Valentine froze, her eyes shifting to the suitcase.
Only then did she realize it wasn't Adrian's belongings at all.
Anna felt a chill run down her spine.
Chloe scanned her from head to toe, then suddenly laughed.
"Do you know what kind of place this is?"
Anna remained silent.
Chloe's tone was leisurely, laced with mockery.
"This is the most exclusive gated community in New York."
"Only high society lives here."
"A lowly Executive Assistant like you doesn't belong here."
What infuriated her more was that Adrian had personally brought her here.
But she had to maintain her image in front of him.
Adrian frowned, his expression darkening.
"I arranged for her to stay here."
"It's close to the office. Convenient for work."
Chloe narrowed her eyes, jealousy boiling within them.
Why?
Why would he go through the trouble of arranging housing for a mere assistant?
And personally escort her?
But she didn't dare argue further.
She feared he would see her as petty.
Anna just wanted to leave as soon as possible.
"Ms. Valentine is right."
"I can't afford a place like this."
"Mr. Sinclair, I should just return to my rented apartment."
She deliberately echoed Chloe's words.
Surely he wouldn't insist now.
Chloe shot her a glance, her eyes triumphant.
Adrian turned to look at her, a cold smile curling his lips.
She had learned to use leverage against him.
Too bad it wouldn't work on him.
"You're my Executive Assistant."
"You follow my arrangements."
"There's still much for you to learn."
He slid one hand into his pocket and stepped closer.
Looming over her.
"If I say you stay, you stay."
His proximity made her breath catch.
Chloe watched them standing so close, burning with envy.
She was about to speak, but Anna beat her to it.
Anna took a step back, her tone calm.
"This is your house."
"It's not appropriate for me to live here."
"A single man and woman living alone would cause misunderstandings."
Her gaze lightly swept over Chloe.
The other woman's expression instantly changed.
Chloe cursed inwardly.
Adrian belonged to her alone.
She would never allow another woman to move in here!
She suppressed her anger and linked her arm through Adrian's.
Her voice sickly sweet.
"Adrian, she's right."
"It's bad for your reputation."
"Since she doesn't want to stay, just let her go."
She pretended to be understanding and considerate.
Every word framed as concern for him.
Anna breathed a sigh of relief.
Surely he would give up now.
Adrian's brow furrowed deeply, his gaze heavy.
He stared at Anna, his expression unreadable.
But clearly displeased.
Chloe's heart ached with bitterness, and she tightened her grip on his arm.
Her voice tinged with grievance.
"Adrian, you've been neglecting me lately."
"Do you hate me now?"
Adrian's expression stiffened.