?<strong>Chapter 1242:</strong>
“Yes.”
She responded readily to his questions. Her candor made it difficult for Merrick to divert his gaze.
“I also attended Warrington University, but I graduated two years ahead of you.”
Laney noticed his persistent stare and felt a twinge of shyness.
“Sir, please go about your business. Cliff will be here shortly. Thank you for the flowers and the use of your phone.”
The mention of Cliff gave Merrick another topic of conversation.
“Mr. Hopkins was coborating on a project with my father.”
Despite the business context, the mention of Cliff stirred emotions within Laney.
As they conversed, Laney, feeling Merrick’s gaze still on her, said, “Mr. Acosta, is there something on my face?” He had been looking at her intently.
“Mr. Acosta?” It was rare for people to address him so formally. Merrick responded with a yful tone, “You’re quite formal, aren’t you?” Laney’s cheeks warmed.
Realizing he might have embarrassed her, Merrick quickly exined his attention.
“There’s nothing on your face. You’re just strikingly beautiful. Actually, there’s a flower petal in your hair, which drew my gaze.”
Laney instinctively reached up to remove it.
Merrick was quicker, gently plucking the bright rose petal from her hair.
At that moment, Cliff turned the corner and saw them.
Cliff’s expression darkened instantly.
“What are you two doing?” The sharp question caught both Merrick and Laney off guard, causing a brief pause.
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Holding a flower petal, Merrick responded with a calm smile.
“Mr. Hopkins.”
Laney took this moment to part ways with Merrick.
“My ride has arrived.”
Merrick acknowledged her with a nod. He then asked, “When is your next performance? Will you be promoting it?”
Uncertain, Laney was about to name her theater when Cliff interjected, “Laney, my mother is calling for you.”
His tone was cold, bordering on a scold.
Laney felt a sense of rm. Distracted, she lost track of her conversation with Merrick. She approached Cliff, flowers in hand, maintaining a polite distance.
Cliff reached for her wrist and gently pulled her closer. His eyes were icy as he addressed Merrick.
“We’re heading to dinner, so we won’t be able to see you out, Mr. Acosta. Please, feel free to leave.”
Merrick grinned.
“No need for formalities.”
As Cliff and Laney walked away, Merrick called after them, “Miss Collins, I know this area well. I’ll find your phone and get it to you.”
Cliff’s grip tightened around Laney’s wrist reflexively, causing her thoughts to stall. Automatically, she said, “Thank you. My phone case is the one with white wings.”
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