Chapter 316

Cassandra Winslow’s feelings for Alexander Kensington were no secret.

No matter how many times he turned her down, she refused to give up. In her mind, his continued bachelorhood was proof enough—he had to care for her.

He only treated her like a sister because their families were close, but deep down, he loved her. That stubborn belief kept her going. One day, she would win his heart.

Sooner or later, he would be hers.

Seeing the stormy look on his face now, though, Cassandra faltered. She bit her lip, fingers tightening around his sleeve.

"Fine. I haven’t seen you in months, and I miss you. Must you be so cold?" Her voice trembled. "I even brought you a late-night snack. You don’t appreciate it—no, you scold me instead."

Her lower lip jutted out. Tears shimmered in her eyes, threatening to spill.

Alexander exhaled, pinching the bridge of his nose. "You’re not a child anymore, Cassandra. Stop this."

He glanced at the clock. "You’ve been away for half a year. Your family must be worried. Go home."

"They don’t care!" she snapped, frustration boiling over. "All they think about is business. And now you’re just like them!"

She snatched up the takeout container, shoving it toward him. "Eat. Then I’ll leave."

Her glare dared him to refuse.

"Cassandra—"

"Please."

His jaw tightened. He knew her intentions were good, but indulging her would only feed false hope. Better to crush it now.

Without another word, he stood, grabbing his coat. "Harrison."

The door opened immediately. His assistant had been waiting outside.

"Escort Ms. Winslow home."

Cassandra’s face paled. He wouldn’t even humor her this much? Did he think she’d poisoned it?

"Alexander Kensington, I hate you!" She hurled the container into the trash with a clatter. "Let the dogs have it, then!"

She stormed out before Harrison could react.

Alexander didn’t move.

"Sir…?" Harrison hesitated.

"Follow her. Make sure she gets home safely."

As much as she infuriated him, she was still family friends. If anything happened to her tonight, the blame would land on him.

Harrison nodded and rushed after her.

The scent of food still hung in the air. Alexander’s stomach growled. He was hungry.

Keys in hand, he checked the time.

Evelyn would be awake now, halfway across the world in Laurentia. Probably eating, too.

He’d grab something quick. And for a moment, he could pretend they were sharing a meal together.