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.

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

“Seriously? You took that blow… for

him a faint, almost mocking smile. “Of course. What did you think it

together, his expression cold and unreadable as he fixed his eyes on Rachel. The tension

silence, Rachel spoke calmly. “Once Hector and Carol head to their room to rest, I’ll leave right

a hurry to

?? ???

to linger where I don’t

learned to see things

flickering in his gaze. “How’s the wound?” he

a couple of days.” The indifference in her voice unsettled

have her running to him, asking him to

and somehow, that hurt him

reaching out instinctively. “Let me take a

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

still.” His hands found her waist, his voice unyielding. “I’m just trying to