Requiem of a Broken Heart

Chapter 577:

Rachel was momentarily stunned, her breath catching as Andres steadied her. For him, the brief moment felt like a rare treasure, his hand lingering gently on her waist. Tracy observed the scene with a quiet intensity; her expression was unreadable, but her eyes were sharp.

The stillness was broken by Brian’s cold, cutting voice. “This isn’t the place for romantic displays. If my terms are too harsh, Rachel, you’re welcome to leave.”

Embarrassed, Rachel turned to Andres, her voice soft but sincere. “I’m sorry for involving you,” she murmured before quickly stepping away to fetch the water.

Discovering the kettle empty, Rachel decided to bring room-temperature water instead, thinking it might be safer after Brian’s earlier choking incident. But as she handed him the glass, his piercing gaze met hers, his tone sharp and unyielding.

“Rachel,” Brian said firmly, “I was clear. I asked for hot water.”

hesitation, taking

glass of hot water, and handed it to Brian, her movements deliberate and

down moments later, his voice cutting through the air. “Too hot. Are

to!” Rachel quickly apologized, her face flushing with embarrassment. “Let

before handing

thrill

his expression remained stern. “Now it’s not hot enough,” he said, his tone cold and

water; it never was. This was his way of

always saw everything through the lens of profit and loss. He didn’t act without a reason and certainly never out of

do you want me to do?” she asked, the words coming out quieter than she

Brian could answer, Andres stepped forward, his presence a protective shield. He gently took Rachel’s hand, pulling her behind him with an air of quiet authority. “Rachel, you