As Cheng Zixiao's piercing gaze bore into him, Cheng Zixiao's face underwent a kaleidoscope of emotions. An unmistakable mixture of embarrassment and anger painted his features, rendering him momentarily mute.
In this complicated love triangle, Jack held the undisputed title of Georgia's lawful husband, while Cheng Zixiao was left with the unenviable role of an impassioned pursuer.
Without affording Cheng Zixiao an opportunity to plead his case, Jack seized Georgia's hand and guided her toward the exit with an air of assertiveness.
Just as they neared the door, a figure hastily approached them. It was Du Yue, who appeared somewhat flustered. "General Manager Jack," she began urgently, "several general managers and deputy general managers are eagerly awaiting your return..."
Georgia sensed that a professional engagement was unfolding here. She attempted to withdraw her hand from Jack's firm grip and urged, "Let me go, I can make my own way back."
But Jack didn't release her; instead, he turned his gaze towards Du Yue, his voice carrying a stern undertone. "Inform them that I'll join them later. We can discuss our cooperation at a more suitable time."
With that, he pulled Georgia along, guiding her through the Biqing garden's gates. Their steps, a mixture of insistence and compliance, mirrored the tumultuous dance of their emotions.
Half-dragged and half-led into the waiting car, Georgia drew a deep breath, her eyes locked onto the man beside her as he fastened his seatbelt. She could sense the simmering anger emanating from him; this time, Jack was genuinely upset.
Throughout the journey, Georgia remained uncharacteristically silent, the palpable tension enveloping the car. She clenched her teeth, refusing even to glance at her companion. This time, she was determined not to back down.
The car came to a halt at their destination. Georgia swiftly opened the door and exited without uttering a word. Moments later, the door slammed shut behind her, and she soon heard the echoing footsteps of the man pursuing her.
"Georgia, we need to talk," Jack implored.
"I have nothing to discuss with you," Georgia retorted, her stride unbroken.
Jack observed her resolute back, his brow furrowing. The words he had intended to say hung suspended, unspoken. If he were to reveal his true motives for marrying her at this moment, it would likely only stoke her anger further.
With a clenched fist, Jack suppressed his urge to confess and decided to allow both their emotions to cool before addressing the underlying issues.
Watching Georgia's figure disappear into the stairwell, he hesitated for a few seconds, then turned and retraced his steps.
"Master Jack..." Just as Jack approached the doorway, a voice, filled with trepidation, reached his ears.
Aunt Rong stood at the threshold of the kitchen, her face etched with concern.
After a brief pause, he spoke in a somber tone, "Take good care of her."
With those words lingering in the air, he departed promptly.
Three days passed.
On the morning of the third day, as Georgia sat down at the dining table, the aroma of small pancakes wafted through the air, triggering an immediate, overwhelming wave of nausea. She clutched her mouth, attempting to stave off the impending retching.
Aunt Rong hastened to her side, worry etched on her features. "Are you feeling unwell again?"
This wasn't the first time; Georgia had experienced a similar bout of discomfort during yesterday's meal. Initially, she had attributed it to the emotional turmoil stemming from her quarrel with Jack. However, it seemed that the symptoms persisted.
Aunt Rong, growing increasingly concerned, suggested, "Shall I call Dr. Luo to examine you? Perhaps some traditional Chinese medicine might help."
Georgia forced a feeble smile and shook her head. "Aunt Rong, there's no need..."
She didn't want to trouble anyone associated with the Jack family any further, especially given her already fragile emotional state. Her loss of appetite over the past few days was likely a result of her persisting melancholy.