?Chapter 1316:


    “Elissa?” Ernest narrowed his eyes and leaned in, keeping his voice soft. “Out of everyone here, I’m probably the one you’re most at ease with.”


    He was right. When it came down to it, she’d rather turn to him than approach her supervisor.


    “I think…” Her voice trembled, barely escaping her lips.


    But Ernest caught every word. His expression didn’t change. Without hesitation, he shrugged off his suit jacket.


    “Just lift your arms a little for me.”


    Carefully, he wrapped the coat around her waist and knotted the sleeves in front like it was second nature.


    The way he tied the jacket, it covered her waistpletely—both front and back.


    That brought a sense of relief. At least now Elissa wouldn’t have to deal with the humiliation of people noticing any stain on her dress. Still, the thought of ruining his probably high-end suit jacket made her stomach twist with guilt.


    After ncing down at her, Ernest paused for a few seconds and then gently ced a hand on her shoulder.


    “Let’s go to my office.”


    “Alright.” Elissa didn’t argue. A jacket alone wasn’t going to fix the situation.


    So with countless eyes trailing after them, Ernest guided her out of the cafeteria, his arm steady around her as they made their way toward the CEO’s office.


    The moment they disappeared, hushed voices began to rise behind them.


    “Who is that woman?”


    “Isn’t Mr. Flynn already engaged? I thought he and his fiancée grew up together.”


    “Are you talking about Linda? Word is, they already broke up.”


    “Do you think that’s his new girlfriend?”


    “Could be…”


    Back at a nearby table, Elissa’s supervisor was getting questions of his—


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    “Is Miss Hond seeing Mr. Flynn or something?” a colleague asked him. He raised his hands in defense. “Beats me. She’s never said a word about it.”


    “Most likely. Mr. Flynn’s not the type to get close to women easily… The only one before was Linda.”


    Inside the CEO’s office, Ernest guided Elissa to the couch and helped her ease down gently. He reached for her hand and noticed the chill in her fingers.


    Ernest’s brows knitted together as he watched her carefully.


    “Do you want to take a quick shower? The lounge has a full setup.” Without thinking, Elissa gave a quick nod—only to hesitate right after, remembering she had nothing to change into.<fnb43b> Original content can be found at find?novel</fnb43b>


    “Don’t worry,” Ernest offered a calm reassurance as he gently guided her toward the lounge. “Just wait here. I’ll handle everything.” He released her hand and quietly stepped away.


    Elissa wasn’t sure how to respond. Watching him take control left her feeling oddly powerless.


    The door to the lounge stayed slightly ajar, letting in muffled voices from outside. She caught the sound of Ernest’s voice as he pressed the inte.


    “Send a secretary, please. A woman, preferably someone older.”


    Not long after, footsteps approached, and a woman in her forties stepped inside.


    “Mr. Flynn. How can I assist you?”


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