In the Lap of Luxury by Unsweetened Chestnuts

"I'll just take a look. I won't participate."

The women played with high stakes. Grace sat on the right, seemingly focused on the game. But in reality, she wasn't paying attention at all.

Before the round ended, the door opened. Matthew led the way in and asked Esme, "Have you won yet?"

Esme scoffed. "You're asking too soon. The outcome isn't clear yet." Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the FɪndNøvel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

Grace froze and stared at Benjamin behind him, whose eyes were also fixed on her.

The lady sitting on the left also noticed him and asked, "Aren't you Mr. Hawkins? You're so young and promising, yet you're willing to watch us women play cards. You must find it amusing." Benjamin undid his coat and placed it aside, standing next to Grace.

"I don't find your game amusing. Clearly, you're skilled."

The lady was delighted. Anyone would willingly accept praise from an attractive man.

Grace pursed her lips and said, "Since Mr. Hawkins is interested in the game, maybe I should give up my seat. I feel a bit-"

Before she could finish, Benjamin's hand landed on her shoulder, pressing down.

"I'm just watching."

didn't even want to play. He was

of hearts. "It's rare to see you around, Mr. Hawkins. You seem quite free today. It's rather unusual, though. Perhaps you're interested in one of the ladies here. Are you hoping for an

fearing she might draw unwanted

Mrs. Thorne is asking about me. What are you so

all eyes at the table turned to

discomfort and answered, "I'm just a little

casually played a card from Grace's

Everyone turned silent.

ambiguous, and Grace felt

identified her as the resilient Ms. Lewis of Amirate

Benjamin's suggestive words and actions, everyone was reminded

got involved in stirring the pot. "Mr. Hawkins, who

egged

to leave, but it was inappropriate to just walk out under everyone's

"Mrs. Thorne, you're mistaken. If

didn't

to continue when Grace dropped her last card. "I've won. I'm a

but at this moment, she didn't want