?Chapter 1365:


    “No,” Melvin said tly, unsure why his usually steady heart felt so rattled. “I’ve got work. Go watch TV or something.”


    “I’d rather stay with you,” Jessica said softly.


    “You don’t have to.”


    “But I want to,” Jessica insisted, her excuses endless. “If you won’t let me keep youpany, then charge me rent. I feel bad living here for free.”


    Melvin’s cool gaze softened, a flicker of something in his eyes.


    After a moment, he gave in. “Fine, but no kissing. Promise.”


    “Deal,” Jessica said instantly, her eyes sparkling. “If you say no, I won’t kiss you.”


    “Okay,” he muttered quietly.


    Later, Melvin worked in his study while Jessica sat nearby, watching him silently.


    Maybe it was the long day or a restless night, but soon her eyes fluttered shut. She drifted off, her head resting gently on his shoulder.


    He thought she was teasing again and opened his mouth to speak, but then he saw her closed eyes and peaceful face. Her longshes cast soft shadows, and her skin looked so delicate in the dim light. She seemed calm and serene.


    As he watched her, he brushed a stray hair from her cheek without thinking. Realizing what he had done, he quickly pulled his hand back.


    After a pause, he shut hisputer, carried her to the bedroom, tucked her in, and returned to his work.


    By the time he finished, it waste.


    As he grabbed a snack, a message from Gerard popped up.


    “Are you set on staying single forever?” Gerard asked.


    Melvin frowned, confused.


    Gerard went on. “I heard Jessica is as busy as you and has never dated. You two were ssmates and got along well. You sure you’re not interested?”


    Melvin typed, “Let’s skip that for now. I have a question.”


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    “Shoot,” Gerard replied.


    Melvin thought of Jessica’s actions earlier and hesitated. “If a girl keeps trying to kiss someone, what’s that about?”


    “How should I know? I’m not a girl!” Gerard shot back.


    “Wait, did someone kiss you?”<fn2205> For original chapters go to f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?</fn2205>


    “Who was it?”


    “Does Jessica know?”


    Melvin nced at the messages and typed calmly, “Just curious. No one.”


    Gerard texted back, “Don’t just let anyoney a kiss on you. What if they get too carried away and end up stealing your virginity?”


    Melvin rolled his eyes, unsure how to respond. He wanted to defend Jessica, to say she wasn’t like that, but he couldn’t admit she was the one who tried.


    Gerard added, “By the way, keep an eye on Jessica. I’m worried one of her old blind dates might hassle her.”


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