?<strong>Chapter 1188:</strong>


    “I knew you’d be upset,” Laney’s voice was barely above a whisper. “But you did say you’d be gone for an hour. Coming back early is on you.”


    Contrary to her expectations, anger wasn’t what clouded Cliff’s expression. Instead, a rush of heat clouded his thoughts. “This is my office. You didn’t even lock the door?” His voice was taut as a bowstring, veins visible at his throat. “Aren’t you the daring one?”


    Laney maintained herposure. “You weren’t here. Who would dare cross your threshold without permission?”


    In one fluid motion, Cliff swept her into his arms, making his way toward the lounge. “Couldn’t spare a few hours of patience?” His tone held gentle reproach. “What’s got you so eager?”


    Laney tucked her face against his neck, mortification keeping her hidden. “I don’t know. I just missed you, and it had to be you.”


    “Wasn’t my shirt enough for you?” Cliff questioned.


    “No,” Laney’s lips formed a small pout. “Ick your… expertise.”


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    Thirty minutester, Laney sat contentedly in a chair, enjoying her meal while Cliff took care of his own needs in the bathroom.


    Laney’s voice carried azy satisfaction. “Cliff, are you sure you don’t need my help?”


    His reply filtered through the ss door, hoarse yet gentle. “Focus on your meal. I’ll take you home once you’re finished. Late night at the office ahead.”


    Laney was not having it. “You promised to make me feel better every night.”


    “I already indulged today,” Cliff responded.


    “That was your initiative, not my request,” Laney countered.


    “Laney, this isn’t up for discussion,” his tone brooked no argument.


    Emboldened by Cliff’s indulgence, Laney had maneuvered him into a rather one-sided arrangement. The terms were simple: Cliff would visit her room each night, without fail.


    Once, Gerry even caught Cliff.


    “Cliff?” Gerry’s voice was thick with sleep as he caught sight of Cliff emerging from Laney’s room in thete hours. “What did youe out of Laney’s room at this hour?”


    Cliff’s face remained perfectlyposed as he flexed his fingers. “She’s been struggling with insomnia,” he said smoothly. “Insists on bedtime stories to help her drift off.”


    A knowing smile crossed Gerry’s face. “You’re buying that? Laney’s just looking for excuses to keep you close. You know how deeply she cares for you.”


    Cliff matched his smile with a chuckle.


    Gerry asked, “What’s so funny?”


    “Just reminiscing about an old friend.” Cliff deflected, thinking of how Caden had once masterfully deceived Gerry during his ndestine romance with Alicia. Any reasonable person would scoff at the notion of innocent storytelling being the reason forte-night visits to a woman’s room. But Gerry? He’d believe it without question.


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