?<strong>Chapter 1041:</strong>


    Kallie’s tender tone melted Jake’s heart, bringing a smile— a rare asion—to his lips. He offered no reply.


    Simply witnessing Jake’s smile lifted Kallie’s spirits significantly. Unseen by both, Lacey observed everything from afar. She noted the usually aloof Jake shing a smile at Kallie and wondered about his intentions. Was he contemting a reconciliation with Kallie, despite their past discord? Lacey resolved not to let that happen.


    As Kallie walked away, Lacey hastened forward to block her path.


    “Miss Nixon,” Lacey called out, her earlier harshness reced by what appeared to be a warm smile.


    “Do you have a moment? I’d like to talk to you.”


    Though Kallie felt inclined to decline, she knew better than to reject her tly. Disliking Lacey was one thing, but she recognized the importance of Lacey’s medical expertise to Elma’s health. It wasn’t wise to upset her daughter’s doctor over personal grievances.


    So, Kallie gave a slight nod.


    “Sure. Now?”


    Lacey motioned for Kallie to follow her.


    Upon entering Lacey’s residence, Kallie was taken aback. Lacey resided in a detached vi,vishly decorated, with numerous servants nearby. It seemed Lacey was more than just a temporary visitor.


    What Kallie didn’t know was that Jake had orchestrated Lacey’s living in a separate vi solely to keep her out of his day-to-day life. He had instructed the housekeeper to fulfill Lacey’s needs, including the decoration, a move to ensure she was pleased during her stay.


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    Lacey had meticulously decorated the house, assuming she would permanently reside at the Reeves family estate once she married Jake.


    Kallie’s fleeting emotions in her eyes didn’t go unnoticed by Lacey, who briefly smirked before saying pointedly, “Jake had set this all up. I’m ttered, but not entirely impressed.”


    Kallie offered a dry chuckle in response.


    Recalling her intent for the day, Lacey ceased her boasting, sighed, and sent the servants away.


    Uneasy, Kallie gazed at Lacey with a guarded look.


    “What do you mean by this?”


    Lacey, appearing wounded by the question, replied, “Miss Nixon, why do you give me that look? Are you concerned I might do something to you? This is Jake’s domain. I wouldn’t dare harm you here.”


    Kallie, sensing more to her words, quickly questioned, “Why have you invited me here today? It can’t just be to show off your house.”


    Lacey responded with a meaningful smile.


    “I really enjoy dealing with sharp minds. Chill out. I mean no harm. If I came across as rude earlier, I apologize. I only acted out of my genuine concern for Elma.”


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