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

already there, busy packing. Watching her, Maxwell felt a

strong gaze on her and turned to see Maxwell watching her

back. I packed a few clothes and your essentials. Check

can buy anything

being swapped meant she could accompany Maxwell on his trip. Otherwise, she would

hesitated for a moment before taking Mona's hand. "It's crowded. I 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

be close

felt a bit shy but nodded, sensing that Maxwell was starting to develop feelings for her. It seemed her efforts

Chapter 31

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large, with long, well-defined fingers, and the warmth from

alongside Maxwell, Mona couldn't

feeling as if she were floating. The earlier distress about

thoughts focused

he was momentarily taken aback, rubbing his eyes to ensure he wasn't seeing things. Maxwell, known for his reserved demeanor, was holding someone's hand. Nigel wondered to himself about their marriage, initially

now?

on a show for others. If someone took a photo and posted it online, it could affect

it out, Nigel

tickets are all set," Nigel informed