Chapter 866 Fishing for Information?
In the living room, Catherine sprawled on the sofa, her long legs casually resting on the coffee table. Across from her, Audrey sat straight-backed, hands on her knees, appearing like a schoolgirl ready to be lectured. To any outsider, it would be hard to believe that the commanding Catherine was the younger sister while the attentive Audrey, seemingly awaiting instruction, was the elder.
After Catherine’s silent entrance, Audrey, unsure of Catherine’s thoughts, bit her lip nervously. After much deliberation, she decided to speak up, tentatively asking, ” Catherine, do you disapprove of me dating Brian?”
Catherine slowly turned her head towards Audrey, replying leisurely, “I don’t meddle in your affairs.”
Audrey trusted Catherine’s word; unless she sought help, Catherine never interfered. With a sigh of resignation, Audrey cautiously admitted, “I don’t know how to say this, but I’m dating Brian now.”
Catherine gave her an extra glance at the serious proclamation. “Planning to get married?”
Audrey was taken aback and quickly dismissed the idea. “No! Brian just blurted it out. We’ve only just made it official. Marriage is still a long way off. I’m not rushing into it and currently have no thoughts on it.”
Due to her family history, Audrey had always been uncertain if she could be a good wife or mother. She didn’t look forward to marriage and even considered staying single forever.
Catherine nodded noncommittally. ” Well, it’s your life. I’m going to rest.”
Not wanting to intrude further, Audrey returned to her room, the smile on her face collapsing as she closed the door. Catherine’s well-being is paramount to me, even at life’s cost,’ Audrey thought.
Back in the living room, Catherine stayed on the sofa, flipping through her phone. She was looking at Brian’s details sent by Zobber, finding nothing unusual. Brian seemed like the perfect heir with an impeccable background, yet his perfection made Catherine wary.
Unaware of when she drifted off, Catherine awoke to Branden’s call. She checked that Audrey’s door was closed before agreeing to be picked up.
Descending the stairs, her phone buzzed with an unknown number. ” Miss Swann, tomorrow is the deadline. Have you made your decision?” came the voice.
“What’s the rush? You said tomorrow,” Catherine said, her eyes shimmering in the dense night.
After a pause, the voice replied, ” Alright, let’s go with what you said. I hope you won’t disappoint me tomorrow.” Tomorrow held not only the deadline but also the date Catherine promised to submit a new report to the accreditation council.
Putting away her phone, Catherine was greeted by Branden’s soothing voice from behind. Noticing her cold hands, Branden wrapped her in his coat with concern, his movements seamless.
“It was just from washing my hands, not the cold,” Catherine explained as Branden helped her into the warm car.
Once inside, Branden said, “Next time, wash your hands with warm water, not cold.” He held her close, their proximity allowing Catherine to catch his faint scent of alcohol.
“Didn’t drink much tonight?” Catherine asked.
With a chuckle, Branden replied, “Why would I drown my sorrows when I’m not the one who got dumped?” His voice was filled with a mix of scorn and mockery for Triston. To Branden, if not for Triston, he wouldn’t have indulged in even a sip.
“Is Triston okay?” Catherine asked, her tone seemingly concerned, yet her expression remained cool and detached.
“Don’t worry. He won’t kick the bucket, “Branden answered, mocking the well- known playboy of Casier. “His mess is of his own making.”
The conversation turned to Audrey and Brian, with Catherine teasingly asking, “So, are you here fishing for information?”
Branden smirked. “Spot on. I can play the seducer if need be. Are you game, Miss Swann?”
Catherine retorted with a playful wink, “It all hinges on how much charm Mr. Duncan is prepared to part with in this game of seduction.”
As the privacy screen in the rear of the car suddenly lifted, Branden’s lips found their way to Catherine’s flushed cheek, imprinting a tender kiss that held the promise of more.
