Chapter 364:

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Miley bit her lip, contemplating briefly. «It’s getting late. Allow me to treat you both to lunch as a token of my gratitude.»

After making her offer, she shot a knowing wink at Neville.

Catching her cue, Neville chimed in, «Great, let’s go to Luking Restaurant.»

Miley’s smile faltered. Luking Restaurant was a renowned Michelin three-star establishment in Seamarsh. She had wanted to alleviate the tension, not empty her wallet. With a roll of her eyes and a clenched jaw, she retorted, «You certainly have expensive taste.»

Neville arched an eyebrow, replying, «Naturally. I did save you a million with just a few words, after all.»

Caught off guard, Miley was momentarily speechless.

Neville had a point.

Struggling for a response, she could only mutter through gritted teeth. «Thank you.»

Neville grinned. Teasing her had its own rewards, it seemed.

Their light banter helped to defuse the atmosphere.

Seeing this, Stella interjected, «Well, considering Mr. Pierce’s huge assistance, it’s only fitting that we treat him to a lavish meal.»

«Stella, your generosity knows no bounds,» Neville complimented, sealing the agreement.

Stella’s cheeks flushed a deep rose.

«Let’s go,» Matthew said, walking off.

The group headed toward the elevator, descending to the parking lot.

Stella got into Miley’s car.

Matthew appeared to deliberately hold her back, but recalling Stella’s words from the previous night, he swallowed whatever he’d been about to say.

Once Neville got in the car, he took the front passenger seat and said into his phone, «Keep a watch on Miley’s company. I want to be alerted immediately if there are any irregularities. Also, find some activities her business can participate in.» His voice bore a rare seriousness. Matthew, sitting at the wheel, listened to Neville’s instructions in silence.

As Neville ended the call, Matthew couldn’t help but tease, «You seem quite concerned about Miley.» Pausing for a moment, Neville lifted his eyes to meet Matthew’s and flashed his trademark mischievous grin.

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«Miley is Stella’s close friend. If I do her a few favors, maybe she’ll put in a good word for you in front of your wife. Consider it a favor to you. When Stella finally accepts you, don’t forget you owe me a great meal.» With that, Neville playfully punched Matthew’s shoulder.

Matthew’s lips curved into an enigmatic smile, but he chose to remain silent.

The two cars pulled into the parking lot of Luking Restaurant, one after the other. It was lunchtime, and as soon as the four of them stepped into the elevator, a throng of people unexpectedly crowded in.

Stella instinctively stepped back.

Just then, a hand gently settled on her waist, pulling her into a warm embrace a second later.

The comforting scent filled her nostrils, but Stella shifted, attempting to dislodge Matthew’s arm.

«Watch out. You might get squeezed,» Matthew whispered softly into her ear, lowering his head for emphasis. «Just bear with it for a while.»

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