?<strong>Chapter 974:</strong>


    “No,” Pierre responded. “I just knew Ms. Bet had been in Xada for two years and presumed there might be a romantic involvement.”


    Gemma exhaled in mild frustration. “I appreciate Alicia,” she stated inly. “But sadly, my brother isn’t worthy of her.”


    Pierre averted his eyes, focusing on the soil, his emotions concealed. “Mr. Hampton is certainly sessful in business.”


    “But he isn’t as caring as Mr. Ward.”


    Curious, Gemma asked, “Pierre, would you consider yourself caring?”


    Pierre nced at her appealing face, his Adam’s apple shifting noticeably. His throat suddenly dry. Had they grown sofortable with each other? Why would she pose such a personal question?


    Before Pierre could reply, She interrupted them.


    “Miss Hampton!” She eximed in exasperation. “Why are you in the garden again? I’ve told you countless times that with your weak immune system, you must avoid germs!”


    Gemma nched. The noise from the living room signaled She’s approach.


    ???ε?? ￠??t?€я? ?η ?a?и?νê??.???


    Gemma, dreading She’s nagging, quickly tapped Pierre’s arm. “Quick, help me sneak back to my room.”


    Pierre, caught off guard, felt like he was part of a childish escapade. “Miss Hampton, your room is upstairs. We have to go through the living room.” She was in the living room. How could he possibly cover for her?


    “Through the window!” Gemma suggested, pointing to the nearby wall. “You’re tall enough. I can climb over using your shoulder.”


    Pierre eyed the wall. It wasn’t particrly high, but still a challenge for Gemma. Was this really suitable for someone of her delicate nature?


    Concerned about her tendency to be breathless when excited, Pierre responded seriously, “That’s too dangerous.”


    “Just trust me!” Gemma insisted, gathering her dress and tying it into a knot, her expression determined. “If She sees me covered in mud, she’ll not only scold me but also call Corey. I’ll be in real trouble then.”


    As she spoke, She’s stern voice grew closer. “Miss Hampton, aren’t youing in yet?”


    Gemma tugged at Pierre’s sleeve urgently. “Hurry.” She enticed him with a promise. “Whether it works or not, I’ll give you a bonus.”


    She held up a finger, suggesting, “A hundred thousand, okay?”


    Pierre looked at her for a moment before agreeing. It wasn’t the money that influenced him. It was the earnest plea in Gemma’s eyes—irresistible.


    Pierre positioned himself beneath the window of her room and crouched down.


    As Gemma stepped onto his shoulder, Pierre secured her ankles, advising, “Hold on tight.”


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