The Queen's Back

PRACH

Chapter

31

Maxwell asked, "Which country are you heading to?" absentmindedly rubbing his fingers together as he pondered something.

"Arkenvale," Mona replied honestly. She had asked the manager before leaving and had also obtained Artemis Rain's assistant's contact information.

"Wait for me at home. I'll go with you. I have a contract to sign in Arkenvale in a couple of days," Maxwell said.

Hearing that Maxwell would accompany her, Mona felt a wave of happiness. "Great, I'll wait for you at home. There's no rush."

The manager had mentioned that Artemis would be in Arkenvale for a week to shoot a commercial. If things went well, Mona hoped to spend some time exploring the country with Maxwell, which might strengthen their bond. After ending the call, Mona felt much better. She also called her grandparents to let them know she and Maxwell were going abroad, omitting the part about her design being swapped to avoid worrying them.

In her heart, Mona suspected Barbara of switching her design, though she had no proof. She kept this in mind, planning to settle scores from both her past and present lives in due time.

Meanwhile, after ending the call, Maxwell told the board members the meeting was adjourned. The directors were surprised by his uncharacteristic behavior, which deviated from his usual businesslike demeanor. Maxwell left the meeting room and returned to his office, with his assistant, Nigel, following behind.

"I'll handle the negotiations in Arkenvale myself. You come with me and have Bud manage the company," Maxwell said, eager to return home.

"But, sir, wasn't Bud supposed to handle the trip to Arkenvale?" Nigel asked, puzzled. The deal in Arkenvale wasn't particularly critical, so it seemed unusual for Maxwell to go personally. Maxwell didn't answer Nigel's question, instead reiterating, "I'll go. Inform Bud, and we'll meet at the airport later."

Maxwell left the office and

busy packing. Watching her, Maxwell felt a surge of warmth. Since

her and turned to see

him a sweet smile. "You're back. I packed a

fine. We can buy anything we need later. Let's go; I've had

coincidence that her design being swapped meant she could accompany Maxwell on his trip. Otherwise,

don't want us to get separated, so I'll hold your hand for safety." Maxwell spoke earnestly, using the crowded airport as an excuse to hold

be close to

bit shy but nodded, sensing that Maxwell was starting to develop feelings for her. It seemed her efforts were beginning to pay off, and she felt

Chapter 31

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the warmth from his grasp gave Mona a profound sense

Maxwell, Mona couldn't help

feeling as

thoughts focused solely on

known for his reserved demeanor, was holding

now?

realized they might be putting on a show for others. If someone took a photo and posted it online, it

for figuring it out, Nigel eagerly

are all