Chapter 204 The Lengths a Man Will Go to Claim His Desire
"Mr. Hall, it’s just some water," Violet Devereux responded, attempting to minimize the incident. She felt a distinct discomfort in the confines of Brady Hall's office, a sense of oppression and anxiety that was hard to shake.
"Did you need something from me, Mr. Hall?" she asked.
"I would like to take you to lunch," Brady Hall declared, his voice unwavering, even in the presence of Linda.
Violet Devereux was slightly taken aback, a blush creeping onto her cheeks as she stammered, "But it's rather early for lunch, isn't it?" At the moment she had ventured into the break room, it was barely 10:40 AM. Lunch was still a good hour away.
"Early? Not at all. Certain establishments demand an early arrival," Brady Hall countered, gesturing to Linda and instructing, "Purchase a new dress for Ms. Devereux, use the size I mentioned previously."
With a nod of understanding, Linda promptly departed to carry out the task.
Violet's cheeks deepened in hue. When had Brady Hall acquired knowledge of her dress size? She couldn't remember ever divulging such information. However, she chose not to voice her embarrassment, instead offering, "Mr. Hall, I appreciate the gesture, but this blouse will dry shortly. There's no need for a new one."
"Do you truly believe it will be dry by the time we depart?" Brady's voice remained composed, but the intensity of his gaze was disconcerting.
Violet Devereux, increasingly flustered, averted her gaze, quickly asserting, "It will be dry in thirty minutes."
Brady Hall was not surprised by her refusal; this woman had always been obstinate. He merely offered a slight smile, setting down his pen and rising from his chair. As he crossed the room, his tall figure loomed over Violet Devereux. His voice was a blend of allure and authority as he asked, "Would you care for a drink?"
"No, thank you, Mr. Hall," Violet replied, discomforted by his proximity. She felt an almost instinctual urge to evade him. This was a man who might seize an opportunity to kiss her without consent. She had no desire to be exploited again, so she took a step back, stating, "Mr. Hall, if we're not leaving immediately, I'll return to JK."
Brady Hall merely regarded her with a steady gaze, his deep-set eyes unblinking, as he slowly questioned, "Are you certain you wish to dine in a restaurant in those damp clothes? Aren't you concerned other men might catch a glimpse of your undergarments?"
His words were laden with flirtatious undertones. Violet's face paled slightly, leaving her momentarily speechless. Her clothes were damp, but not noticeably so! She found his line of thinking perplexing. However, she was aware that Brady Hall had been making efforts to woo her of late. He was a man driven by the thrill of the chase.
She no longer anticipated respectful discourse from him. She resolved to clarify the situation with Loraine Plahn over lunch, then return to JK.
Suppressing her embarrassment, Violet retorted, "Mr. Hall, I would appreciate some respect."
Respect, once again. The notion almost made Brady laugh. When a man desires a woman, he will employ any means at his disposal, and he was no exception. However, his moral compass was not so skewed as to resort to despicable coercion, unless circumstances left him no choice. And even then, he would never force her.
His interactions with Violet over time had demonstrated that if he lacked interest, he wouldn't even spare her a glance, let alone flirtatious remarks. Yet, it was her consistent rejections that piqued his interest.
Brady was about to respond when his phone rang. It was Arthur Stanley. "Please, have a seat on the sofa," he instructed Violet, moving towards the window to answer the call.
Violet exhaled a sigh of relief and sank into the sofa.