?Chapter 266:


    Once Malcolm departed, only Elena and Wesley remained. She soon spotted Felix loading suitcases into the vehicle, a clear sign that Wesley was preparing for a trip.


    “Are you traveling for work?” she asked.


    “Yes.” Hands tucked into his pockets, Wesley’s gaze flickered toward her lips.


    Elena typically wore no cosmetics—her paleplexion and refined features needed little enhancement. But now, with a hint of lipstick, her soft lips appeared even more delicate.


    Out of nowhere, Wesley inquired, “How well do you know Malcolm?”


    “What?” Elena arched a brow, momentarily thrown off. His demeanor was cool andposed, seemingly indifferent even to his own well-being. He didn’t strike her as someone who concerned himself with such minor matters. Yet as she looked up, his expression was serious—he genuinely wanted to gauge her connection to Malcolm.


    Elena hesitated briefly before responding, “Not particrly well.” Their conversations revolved mainly around business, with asional interactions regarding Kiera’s recovery.


    Elena wasn’t sure if it was her imagination, but after she answered, Wesley’s expression seemed to soften slightly.


    Then, without warning, he rattled off a series of digits.


    Elena blinked, caught off guard.


    Seeing her confusion, Wesley prompted, “Take it down. That’s my personal line.”


    She already had his number saved. It didn’t take long for her to realize that the one she had must have been for professional use. But why was he giving her his direct contact? Was he not concerned she might pass it along?


    Her unspoken questions were soon answered. Wesley’s face remained unreadable, but there was an unusual patience in his voice. “You did me a favor before. I owe you one.”


    Elena had assumed the invitation to his grandfather’s birthday event had settled any past debts. Wesley’s brow knit slightly when he noticed she hadn’t yet saved the number. His voice took on a colder edge. “You said you wanted to be my friend.”


    Elena suddenly recalled the casual remark she had tossed out to pacify him. At the time, she had merely said it as a convenient excuse. She hadn’t expected him to take it to heart. Back then, he had dismissed the idea outright, stating inly that he never formed friendships. Now, by offering his private number, was he implying otherwise?


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    “That’s right. I’d like to be friends,” Elena replied, recovering quickly from her surprise before saving the number. Only then did the frost in his eyes thaw.


    By the car, Felix checked his watch, hesitated, then spoke up. “Sir, it’s time to leave.” If they dyed any longer, they would miss the flight.


    Wesley frowned, took a step toward the vehicle, then abruptly turned back.


    “If you ever need assistance, I’m a better option than Malcolm.” With that, he turned and left.


    Elena stood there, momentarily dazed. Was he implying that he was more reliable than Malcolm?


    In Foiclens, chaos engulfed the Reed household.


    Benjamin had just learned from Darren that Elena belonged to the Harper family. Yet, Cecily and Sylvia had been aware of this all along but had deliberately kept it from him. That night, his fury erupted.


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