Chapter 8

[ARIETTA’S POV]

I noticed Eugene’s sudden change of expression. His forehead furrowed as he scrutinized the man beside me. I’m good at lying, so I’m sure Eugene won’t suspect anything.

I was nervous, though, because it seemed like Eugene was closely observing us. To play along, I leaned even closer to Sir Pierce.

“Is he your boyfriend?” Eugene asked, pointing at Sir Pierce. I took a deep breath and nodded.

"Seriously, Ari. Why would you settle for someone like this when you could have me? Out of all the options, you go for someone who looks like he’s just a laborer at this villa."

His words made me frown. I glanced at Sir Pierce and noticed his simple clothes and cowboy boots—he must have just come from the farm or horseback riding.

Sir Pierce scoffed, as though he was ready to respond to Eugene’s comment.

Eugene stepped closer, so I subtly moved back, still holding onto Sir Pierce.

“Ari, I courted you for a long time, didn’t I? And now, you’re just going to replace me with someone like this? He probably can’t even support you. Sure, he has a handsome face, but that’s all he’s got! He can’t give you anything.”

“I don’t care about someone’s wealth, Eugene. If all you have to offer is your family’s money, then I don’t need it—and you definitely don’t stand a chance with me. I already turned you down before, but you wouldn’t let it go. Now that I have a boyfriend, could you please stop interfering in my life? I can only offer you friendship. If you can’t accept that, then we’re done here.”

I was annoyed by what he said. He always flaunted his family’s wealth and constantly gave me things. I don’t want him throwing it in my face someday, especially since I’ve already made it clear that I’m not interested.

“He’s older than you!” Eugene shouted at me.

“I’m of legal age, Eugene. I can make my own decisions. So what if he’s a few years older than me? If he’s who I want, then he’s who I want.” I felt embarrassed saying all this, but I could explain everything to Sir Pierce later.

I flinched when my hand slipped from Sir Pierce’s arm, and I felt his hand move to my waist, gently caressing it.

“Is this guy bothering you, love? I’ve been looking all over for you, and here you are, talking to this guy.” He pulled me even closer, and I felt my mouth go dry at his actions and words.

He kissed the side of my head, and my eyes widened. Why the kiss?

I looked up at Pierce and saw his smirking lips. Gosh, I’m doomed.

“N-No, Eugene was just leaving,” I said, giving Eugene a pleading look, hoping he would go.

“I need proof! If he’s really your boyfriend, Ari, prove it,” Eugene demanded.

My jaw nearly dropped at his words. What kind of proof does he want?

“That’s easy,” Pierce said with a teasing tone.

He turned me to face him and, without warning, leaned his face close to mine. But instead of my lips, he went to my ear and whispered, “Make it believable. I’m doing you a favor here.”

I closed my eyes, understanding exactly what he meant.

I held Pierce’s cheek and brought my lips close to the corner of his mouth. From our position, anyone watching would think I kissed him on the lips, even though it wasn’t really a kiss on the lips.

When I glanced back at Eugene, I saw his face flush with anger. He glared at me and Pierce before finally storming off. I heard him mutter that this wasn’t over, so I knew he’d be back. So stubborn!

As soon as Eugene left, I let go of Pierce. I was about to apologize, but his teasing smile caught me off guard.

“So I’m your boyfriend now? Since when?” he asked with a mocking tone. I swallowed, watching him playfully run his tongue over his lips as he looked at me. “I don’t remember you courting me.”

My eyes widened at his last remark. This man really knows how to put on a show.

“I’m sorry, sir. I only said that to make Eugene leave me alone. He just wouldn’t stop bothering me. I’m really sorry.” I even bowed my head to show him how sincere my apology was.

“Hmm, so you’re my girlfriend now, huh? What should we do about it? Maybe you should make it up to me—with a real kiss this time.”

I frowned but didn’t let it show. I took a deep breath, mustering my courage to face him. I forced a smile so he wouldn’t notice how annoyed I was at his suggestion. Why would I kiss him on the lips?

"No, sir. I only said that as an excuse. You don’t have to take it seriously." And I don’t want it to be real either. I never dreamed of being Sir Pierce’s girlfriend. He’s just like Eugene—he gives off that player vibe.

“I have a girlfriend now; I can’t believe it.” He laughed. Argh! He’s not even listening to what I’m saying!

I was about to speak again when he got a call. He looked at his phone and quickly walked over to take it. At least I could finally breathe a bit easier.

I left as well and decided to visit our supervisor to check how many more hours I needed to complete my internship. I also checked on Blaire’s hours, and she had more to complete than I did. She’s always late, so it added up.

I figured Sir Pierce might tease me about what happened earlier. But whatever, at least the issue with Eugene is over now. I guess I just have to worry about Sir Pierce.

Tomorrow is Saturday, and we don’t have work. Sometimes, when it’s busy, we come in to make up hours, but this time, I decided to go home. It’s my aunt’s birthday, and it’d be rude if I didn’t go. I was also considering visiting my dad, but the precinct where he’s held is quite far. If my aunt decides to visit him, then I’ll go too. Besides, my dad doesn’t always like me visiting. He says the precinct isn’t a good place to be seen, so he prefers I don’t come.

“Are you going home tomorrow, Ari?” Blaire asked. Judging by her packing her bag, it looked like she was planning to head home too.

"Yes, it’s been a while. I’m also a bit worried about Aunty since she’s alone at home,” I told her. She nodded and smiled at me.