Zhane’s tone was steady, but the way he spoke felt as though he were thanking someone on behalf of his wife, adding an unspoken depth to his gratitude.


    Gerald’s opinion of Zhane only improved as he nodded in approval, a smile forming on his lips. "I was just doing my duty, Dr. Everett," he responded smoothly. "It was you who truly helped Miss Ainsley deal with her... unhinged ex." Gerald made sure to mention Alexi, subtly drawing aparison between Zhane’s calm, reliable demeanor and Alexi’s vtile nature, the implication hanging in the air between them.


    Dave, curious about the conversation and eager to learn more about Hera’s past, couldn’t hide his interest. His expression clearly betrayed his desire to be in the loop. Noticing this, Gerald initially reached out to shake Dave’s hand but then saw that Dave’s right hand was firmly sping Hera’s. With a friendly smile, Gerald opted to pat Dave on the shoulder instead.


    "I’ll fill you in on the detailster," Gerald said with a knowing grin. "How about I show you to your private room for now?"


    Both Dave and Zhane were taken aback. They had just arrived in the lobby and hadn’t yet made a reservation or requested any assistance to set up their room. Gerald’s assertion that he already had a room prepared for them was unexpected and somewhat unusual.


    Then, both Dave and Zhane nced back at the racecourse manager, and a realization dawned on them. They understood that the manager must have made the reservation earlier, which exined why Gerald was there in person to lead them. Given that both the racecourse and the Golden Dragon Pavilion were part of the Avery’s properties, they inferred that Gerald and the manager were likely well-acquainted. Dave shot a grateful look at the manager, who responded with a puzzled tilt of his head.


    Dave and Zhane didn’t find the situation unusual. They were unaware of the exchange between Hera and Gerald that took ce while they were turning to look at the manager. To those observing, it resembled a yful staring match between old friends or siblings who had known each other for a long time.


    Gerald, pleased with the situation, urged Hera and the others to follow him. Hera didn’t need to guess about the room Gerald had prepared; she knew it was one of the many he had readily avable, requiring no prior reservation or preparation.


    Gerald soon led everyone to Pavilion 1, which both surprised and amazed Zhane and Dave. Zhane managed to maintain hisposure, but Dave looked around with childlike excitement. When he spotted the luxurious boat docked beside Pavilion 1, he became convinced that Luke and Rafael had indeed enjoyed their lunch here yesterday with Hera.


    He turned to Hera with a wide, yful smile, his eyes narrowing into crescent shapes like an innocent fox—though she knew better. "Sweetheart, shall we feed the fish? Hmm?" His voice was turning a soft purr, coaxing her to join him on the boat, wanting to make the experience enjoyable for everyone.


    _______________


    PS: Another month has passed, and I’m genuinely grateful to see so many of you continuing to support and engage with the story. Your ongoing enthusiasm and encouragement mean a lot to me. As a token of my appreciation, please ept this redeem code: <ABDHY8UWAAKFKZKDA>. You can redeem it for 10 Fast Passes at the Redeem Center located in your Profile section, just below your Purchase History. The code is valid for 10 users on a firste, first-served basis. I hope this small gesture brings a smile to your face and encourages you to keep supporting me. Thank you again for being part of this journey!