Chapter 348
Her eyes met mine. ‘After you left, when I finally had someone I cared about, I got it.”
She took a deep breath. “The old me wouldn’t care about the rumors, the leaked photos, or Thalia and Olivia’s targeting.”
My tears dried instantly as realization hit. “You’re… in love?”
Astrid hesitated before nodding. “A secret crush, really. I don’t want it affecting him or the company.”
“On your modeling agency boss?” I asked, surprised.
‘Yes.’
“Isn’t he like seven years older than you?”
“Age doesn’t matter,” she said quickly. “He’s just… really charming.”
I couldn’t believe it. The free-spirited Astrid who dragged me to race tracks and bars to meet college guys was now nursing a secret
crush?
I knew almost nothing about this modeling agency boss. He was notoriously private – despite his companies ranking among New York’s wealthiest, he never socialized with the elite. The rumors painted him as older, unattractive, and ill-tempered.
–
My only impression of him came from several months ago when he lent us a luxury car which, ironically, turned out to be one Blake had bought for Laurel.
For this mysterious man, Astrid had transformed completely. The vibrant, fearless woman who never cared what others thought had become someone who hesitated to even defend herself.
“I don’t care who you’re with,” I said, putting an arm around her shoulders. “Just don’t change yourself for any man.”
Astrid bit her lip. “I haven’t changed. I just don’t want to cause problems. Besides, it probably won’t work out anyway.”
I shook my head as we walked toward the exit. “Now I get why you were so frustrated watching me with Blake.”
“It’s okay,” I told her. “Have your crush, fall in love if you want. I’ll always be your backup.”
When I woke up in Sydney, I promised myself I’d protect Astrid the way she once protected me. During my month of training, I’d dream about becoming her shield. Today, I’d finally done it.
She nodded, eyes warm with trust. “I believe you.”
“If Thalia messes with you again, I’ll knock her teeth out,” I declared. “Even if Blake Parker comes after me, I’l
Astrid suddenly grabbed my arm, and stopped.
I gave her
confused look. What the hell?
Following her gaze, I spotted a black luxury car parked at the mall entrance. The rear window rolled down to reveal Blake’s stone- cold face watching us.
1/2
Chapter 348
I met his stare without flinching. Unlike Astrid, I wasn’t shocked. This was textbook Blake Parker.
Since marrying him three years ago, it had been the same routine. Whenever I clashed with Thalia or Olivia, Blake would appear out
of nowhere. And regardless of who started it, he’d demand that I apologize to them.
So when Thalia and Olivia came after me again today, of course he’d show up.
“Don’t,” Astrid whispered, tightening her grip. “Let’s bail before he sees us.”
Too late for that,” I said, gently pulling free. “You should head back.”
“Ethan’s probably struggling with Emma,” I added. “I’ll catch
up, later.”
Without waiting, I walked straight to Blake’s car and pulled the door open.
As I was about to close it, Astrid called out, “Call me if you need anything!”
She took a breath. “Two hours and then I’m calling the cops!”
“Deal!” I called back.
The door shut with a thud, sealing me in the car’s cool interior, away from the sticky summer heat.
“Mrs. Wilson seems worried,” Blake said, his voice cool.
I turned to meet his dark gaze. His lips surprisingly curved into a faint smile.
“But maybe I’m the one who should be worried,” he said. “Considering how you handled my sister.”
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