Chapter 220 A Game of Cat and Mouse
As they stepped outside, Reese wasted no time in voicing her concerns. "I need to stop by a certain company. I was handling some PR work for them today and I need to pick up Rico's business card."Malcolm reached out and gently grasped her arm. "Which company? I'll accompany you. Perhaps I'm acquainted with them."Without missing a beat, Reese provided the name: "Prospera Ventures."Malcolm's memory quickly supplied him with the details of the company. It was a new establishment with a fervent desire to expand. It made sense that they would be seeking PR assistance. Reese's ability to name the firm without hesitation intrigued him.Was he worrying unnecessarily about her?Did she really need the money that much? Why would she take on PR gigs at other companies while maintaining a full-time job? He realized he needed to discuss this with her.Once Malcolm had persuaded Reese into the car, the close quarters eliminated any physical distance between them. The moment she entered, the atmosphere was permeated with his scent.Malcolm gently held Reese's shoulders, aware of the evolution in their relationship. They had reached a stage where she no longer recoiled at his touch. The intense alarm she once exhibited at his proximity was no longer present.At least for now, it seemed she wasn't as resistant to his affections. It was a hopeful beginning.His gaze locked onto hers, his jaw lightly brushing against the tip of Reese's nose, causing a slight tickle."Not telling your husband about money troubles? Am I broke?" He jested, half-seriously. The idea of his wife moonlighting in PR would be a source of amusement for their peers.Reese's expression was one of mild surprise, seemingly struggling to keep up. Shouldn't he be demanding an explanation for her presence here instead of fussing over her finances? Even if Malcolm was affluent, she had never been one to rely on a man's wealth. Even if it was offered, she wouldn't accept it. Depending on a man for money was not a viable long-term strategy.In the beginning, affection and the novelty of the relationship can make everything seem appealing. One's flaws can even appear as strengths. But as time wears on, the novelty fades, and affection may wane. Would he still take pride in her asking for money then?In her view, probably not.Whether a girl or a woman, it's unwise to pin all hopes on a single man. If his affections wane and he withdraws, finding your way back could be difficult.Reese wasn’t trying to hide anything from Malcolm; it was just how she felt.“I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. Even if you are wealthy, I value the security that comes from earning my own keep,” she said, her dreams never hinged on sponging off a man but on her own competencies.From the first time he laid eyes on her, Malcolm knew Reese was different. Her eyes didn’t show fear, they shone with confidence. Even coming from humble beginnings, she didn't display an ounce of timidity. He had thought she was extraordinary then; now, it seemed even that was an understatement.Any ordinary guy might have backed off hearing Reese speak like this, but Malcolm wasn’t ordinary. He thrived on challenges.Instead of letting go, Malcolm's hold on Reese’s waist tightened, pulling her even closer."It doesn't matter, if you want something, just use the card, honey. Give your hubby a little pride, will you? Spend some of my money, okay?"Even though there was a hint of coldness in his eyes, the words he spoke struck a chord, lifting spirits in an instant.She didn't want to feel this way, but her emotions soared uncontrollably, as if she were stepping on clouds.A subtle smile tugged at Reese's lips, one she didn't even notice herself."I'll let you know when I need it," she said.Deep down, she had no intention of asking Malcolm for money, but she knew resisting further would only lead to his insistence. So she agreed, at least for the moment. Besides, she wasn't short on cash.Malcolm, still pondering a conversation he had overheard, asked, "You've been quite interested in that robotics project recently, haven't you?"Reese hadn't expected him to remember that."Not me; it's my boss, the one from Prospera Ventures."Malcolm turned to Justin, "What's the name of the guy who runs Prospera Ventures?""I think it's Adam. His new company is doing exceptionally well, unlike his previous ventures."Justin had only looked up this information recently; otherwise, he wouldn't have known much either.Malcolm considered this for a moment, while Reese kept quiet, feeling a flutter of anxiety. She wondered if Malcolm and Adam knew each other, which could be awkward since she and Adam weren't exactly close. After all, they had only met a few times and she had never greeted him formally.If Malcolm went to talk to him now, it would expose the lie she had just told.While Malcolm pondered, he observed Reese. Despite her impassive expression, he sensed she was feeling guilty.He leaned in, drawing out his words with a tease, "How about we go over and chat now?"Reese was caught off guard, "You want to go now?"Malcolm nodded, "Let's go."He intended to discuss the possibility of securing the robotics project for his wife, hoping to surprise her. Unaware of his intentions, Reese thought he was trying to trip her up and reveal her lie.Refusal was no longer an option. She could only hope for an opportunity later to direct Calvin to manage it. After hopping in the car, Malcolm kept his gaze fixed on Reese, which made her heart race with anxiety.It was the first time she'd ever felt nervous like that, to have someone stir such a feeling in her.Upon arriving at Prospera Ventures, Reese excused herself to use the restroom. She had to get away from Malcolm's probing.As soon as Reese slipped away, Justin turned to Malcolm with a question."Mr. Flynn, are we seriously going to inquire about that robot thing?" Justin asked."And why not?" Malcolm replied, a hint of impatience in his voice. "Do you think I came all this way because I had nothing better to do?""But isn't that project still under development? Won't it be a bit troublesome?" Justin was aware of the project but hadn't delved too deep due to its complexity.Malcolm shut down the objection with finality, "Whatever it takes, my wife is interested in it."
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