Requiem of a Broken Heart

Chapter 532:

Seeing her defend Brian without hesitation—and noticing the fresh injury on her forehead—Hector couldn’t bring himself to reprimand him any longer.

“Take her upstairs and get that wound looked at,” he finally relented, his tone softening.

Without a word, Brian extended his hand, gently guiding Rachel toward the stairs.

The moment they entered the room, she shoved his hand away. “Why did you protect me?” Brian stepped toward her with an intensity that made her chest tighten.

She averted her gaze, feigning indifference. “I told you I’d cover for you in front of Hector and Carol, didn’t I? I gave my word, and I kept it. Simple as that.”

Her head lifted, her eyes sharp and unwavering. “I didn’t take that hit for nothing. There’s a price.”

Brian’s brow arched, his interest piqued. “Oh? Name it.”

Without missing a beat, Rachel gripped his tie, her tone cool and businesslike.

Considering the weight of that favor, it’s only fair I get compensated. Given your status, I’d say it’s worth at

utterly incredulous. “Seriously? You took that

mocking smile. “Of course.

as he fixed his eyes

and Carol head to their room to

such a

?? ???

I

learned to

the bruise on her forehead, concern flickering in his gaze. “How’s

fine. The swelling will fade in a couple of days.” The indifference in her voice

smallest cut would have her running to him,

flinched, and somehow, that hurt him

out instinctively.

back instantly, her rejection firm. “That won’t be

her waist, his voice unyielding.