Chapter 415

The next day, Nolan walked into the Enigma store with a contract in hand.

Eleanor was arranging the new accessories when she noticed him. Her hands stilled mid-motion.

She placed the necklace back into its velvet box before glancing at him, her impatience plain. "Nolan,why are you here again? Didn't | say Besty would handle the follow-up?"

Nolan ignored her cold tone and strode straight to her.He lifted the contract slightly. "Let's go to the meeting room. Besides signing this, I have something else to discuss."

Eleanor frowned. She didn't want to be alone with him,but she also didn't want the staff overhearing.

After weighing her options, she turned stiffly and led the way upstairs.

Inside the meeting room, she took the seat at the head of the table, her expression distant.

"Go ahead," she said curtly. Nolan sat across from her, and slid the contract across the table, his tone turning businesslike. "Let's handle this first."

Eleanor gave a small nod and began reading carefully.

Her brows lifted slightly when she saw the price. It was well below market value.

He was clearly willing to take a loss just to make amends.Turning down such a deal would be foolish.

Without hesitation, Eleanor picked up the pen and signed.

Leaning back, she met his eyes. "The contract's signed.Now,what else?"

Looking at her-the face that haunted his nights-Nolan felt his throat tighten.

Ryland's words from yesterday echoed in his mind,and he forced himself to steady.

He stood, walking toward her slowly.

Eleanor's brows knitted in suspicion.

What was he doing? Why was he staring at her like that?

Before she could ask, his tall frame loomed over her. Placing both hands on her chair, he caged her in with quiet authority.

The faint scent of cedarwood surrounded her. For a moment,her heart stumbled.

His gaze dropped to her lips, eyes darkening.

His voice came low and hoarse. "Eleanor, I love you."

Her mind went blank for a beat. Then came the sharp snap of her voice.

"What has gotten into you?"

She shoved him back and stood,ready to leave.

But panic struck him.

Acting on impulse, he seized her wrist and pulled her against him.

She stumbled, colliding with his chest.

Before she could push away, his hand slid to the back of her head, holding her still.

"I'm sorry, Eleanor," he whispered, his voice rough with guilt and longing

Then his lips pressed hard against hers.

"Mm...Let go..." She fought him, shoving at his chest, but his strength was overwhelming.

Little by little, her resistance faded. Her body softened,leaning against him as her heartbeat thundered.

Her thoughts scattered, her mind lost in the heat of the moment.

When the kiss finally broke, her lips were damp, her breath unsteady.

Nolan felt a fierce satisfaction. For once, Ryland's advice had paid off. He even thought of treating the fool to a meal.

But just as he was about to speak, sharp pain shot through his foot. Eleanor had stomped down hard.

He hissed, clutching at the pain, and in that instant,she shoved him off and stormed toward the door,rage burning in her eyes.

That bastard.

How dared he steal a kiss from her?

Outside, a few employees who had been eavesdropping scurried away like frightened mice.

Eleanor's cheeks flamed with embarrassment.

The more she thought about it, the angrier she grew. he spun on her heel, marched back inside, and stomped on his other foot-harder this time,twisting her heel for emphasis.

Without sparing him another glance, Eleanor stormed out,her fury trailing behind her.