In the Lap of Luxury
Chapter 552 Apologizing

"I'll just take a look. I won't participate."

The women played with high stakes. Grace sat on the right, seemingly focused on the game. But in reality, she wasn't paying attention at all.

Before the round ended, the door opened. Matthew led the way in and asked Esme, "Have you won yet?"

Esme scoffed. "You're asking too soon. The outcome isn't clear yet."

Grace froze and stared at Benjamin behind him, whose eyes were also fixed on her.

The lady sitting on the left also noticed him and asked, "Aren't you Mr. Hawkins? You're so young and promising, yet you're willing to watch us women play cards. You must find it amusing." Benjamin undid his coat and placed it aside, standing next to Grace.

"I don't find your game amusing. Clearly, you're skilled."

The lady was delighted. Anyone would willingly accept praise from an attractive man.

Grace pursed her lips and said, "Since Mr. Hawkins is interested in the game, maybe I should give up my seat. I feel a bit-"

Before she could finish, Benjamin's hand landed on her shoulder, pressing down.

"I'm just watching."

Grace glared at him fiercely, annoyed by his presence. She didn't even want to play. He was clearly making things hard for her.

Esme watched them and tossed out an ace of hearts. "It's rare to see you around, Mr. Hawkins. You seem quite free today. It's rather unusual, though. Perhaps you're interested in one of the ladies here. Are you hoping for an introduction?"

Grace tensed up, fearing she might draw unwanted attention.

Unexpectedly, Benjamin retorted, "Ms. Lewis, you seem very nervous. Mrs. Thorne is asking about me. What are you so afraid of?"

Instantly, all eyes at the table turned to her.

Grace endured the discomfort and answered, "I'm just a little cold because I'm sitting near the door."

Benjamin casually played a card from Grace's hand. "You forgot to make your move."

Everyone turned silent.

The atmosphere turned ambiguous, and Grace felt uncomfortable.

After Grace had made a name for herself, everyone identified her as the resilient Ms. Lewis of Amirate Corporation rather than Benjamin's ex-wife.

But after Benjamin's suggestive words and actions, everyone was reminded of their past.

Even Esme got involved in stirring the pot. "Mr. Hawkins, who are you to be so concerned for Ms. Lewis?"

The crowd egged them on.

Grace just wanted to leave, but it was inappropriate to just walk out under everyone's watchful eyes.

Sensing her discomfort, Benjamin didn't press further. "Mrs. Thorne, you're mistaken. If anything, me and Ms. Lewis are just friends."

But he didn't elaborate further.

Esme was about to continue when Grace dropped her last card. "I've won. I'm a bit tired. Sorry, I'll be leaving first."

It was somewhat impolite, but at this moment, she didn't want any more misunderstandings.

Grace stood up to leave, and Benjamin nodded apologetically to everyone before grabbing his coat and following her. Once he caught up with Grace outside, he quickly draped his coat around her shoulders. "Wear this if you're cold."

Grace immediately shrugged it off. "I'm not cold. But you're making me annoyed."

Benjamin stood still and said, "I'm sorry for what happened last time. It won't happen again."

"Did you embarrass me just so you could tell me this?"

They stood in a corner in the deserted corridor. The light cast a shadow on them.

"I meant what I said."

"If you were sincere, you wouldn't have done that in the first place."

Benjamin was silent for a moment. "I'm being sincere right now. I came here so I could apologize to you."

Grace was about to respond when suddenly she noticed a figure darting by. She was about to call out when she heard a splash.

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