Chapter 27 A Transformation in Being
Paige’s cheeks flushed at the mention of having a baby.
Just last night, Raymond had suffered an accidental injury, and she had hoped that would keep him subdued for a few days. Yet there he was, bringing the topic right to her.
Nestled in Raymond's embrace yet again, this was the third time that Paige found herself pulled into his lap. Though she wasn't known to be overly sentimental, she couldn't shake off the intimate encounter that lingered in her memory.
The feeling of crashing into his chest hit her like a wave, and she squirmed to free herself from Raymond's arms. With flushed cheeks, Paige muttered, "I'm a bit tired today. I'm going to use the bathroom first." Hurriedly, she escaped into the bathroom, locking the door behind her and leaning against it while taking deep breaths of the fresh air.
What was happening to her? Why did thoughts of that stranger keep invading her mind unbidden? She had been the one to drop the dollar, even mocking him for his incompetence. And yet, why was it she that couldn't forget?
Complicating matters was her current reality: she was a married woman. She was bound in mind and body to be faithful to her husband, Raymond.
Breaking away, she noticed Raymond hadn't moved an inch in his wheelchair, his expression growing darker. He hadn't received his anticipated teasing about grandchildren from Bradley today, and his own flirtatious behavior had been a deliberate test for Paige. Last night's overpowering embrace was a lapse in his self-control, but just now, his clarity was piercing; he recognized Paige's resistance to further intimacy.
Raymond's hands slowly clenched into fists. Could it be that Louis had occupied her heart, leaving no room for him?
After her bath, Paige found the living room void of Raymond's presence and his bedroom door firmly shut. She knocked gently, saying, "The bathroom's free now. I'm quite tired and going to bed."
When she got no answer, she figured Raymond didn't want to talk, so she went back to the spare room. Obviously, she reasoned, he must be angry. What married man, after all, wouldn't be bothered by their situation? An older bachelor finally married his vibrant and beautiful wife, living under the same roof but kept at a restrained distance. A man who had been single for years would naturally have his desires. And now, she had rejected him two nights in a row, a challenge for any man, let alone Raymond.
Yet looking at it from another angle, Paige admired his integrity. He chose to stew in his frustrations rather than impose on her. That restraint alone fortified her confidence that they could grow old together in matrimonial solidarity.
Maybe, given time, she really could fall for him.
Paige lay in bed, turning over the matters concerning Raymond in her mind, but sleep eluded her. Gradually, her thoughts drifted back to the message from Margaret.
Propped up against the headboard, Paige typed the target’s name that Margaret had offered into her intelligence network. She discovered the target was indeed a talented figure. A small smile curved Paige's lips. Margaret “introduced” such a befitting contact; Paige felt she owed her some gratitude.
By tomorrow afternoon, she had to deal with this guy and prevent him from attending the bidding meeting. Taking the moment at hand, Paige combed through every piece of information about him thoroughly.
Margaret's talk of kidnapping or seduction was laughable to Paige.
The following afternoon, after completing the floral arrangements at the villa, Paige hitched a ride back to town as usual, but not on the grocery truck. This time, she did not head straight home or to the Universe Group.
Instead, she swiftly entered a mall, and picked out an outfit that complemented her demeanor. It was the first time Paige had bought clothes since her release from prison, paid for with the modest income she had earned behind bars. The purchase nearly wiped out her funds.
Yet, standing before the mirror in her new attire, Paige's transformation was striking; the woman who walked in was nowhere to be seen. Even the saleswoman took a moment to hide her surprise at the newfound elegance.
Looking at her reflection, Paige could only afford something basic for now, something that would at least make her look less like a maid.
After a once-over, she felt reasonably pleased with her choice. Slipping into heels, she undid her meticulously neat hair, letting soft curls cascade down her back. A light toss of her head gave her locks an even more relaxed appearance.
The nearby saleswoman approached and commented, "Miss, with that elegant air about you; this outfit suits you perfectly."
"I appreciate it," Paige replied, "Please pack my previous clothes, and I'll pay with a card."
After checking out, Paige glanced at the clock. Yannis Xander should be at the café beneath the mall by now. Paige made her way there directly.
Ordering a cup of coffee, she took a seat opposite Yannis Xander.
"Mr. Xander, hello," Paige greeted.
Yannis Xander gave Paige a look-over. She was dressed in a professional suit, and her vibe set her apart from the typical office lady. Uncertain of her identity, Yannis Xander inquired, "Miss, do we know each other?"
With a soft smile, Paige extended a friendly hand, "Last night, I took the liberty of reviewing Mr. Xander's accomplishments."
Yannis Xander blurted out, "You're a headhunter?"
Paige shook her head gently, as she slid her phone across to Yannis Xander, revealing a message from Margaret.
The color drained from Yannis Xander's face as he read.
With a nonchalant smile, Paige said, "I have no intention of using abduction or seduction. However, we could explore a partnership."
"A partnership?" Yannis Xander echoed, his voice a mix of skepticism and intrigue.
Paige's smile deepened. Indeed, a partnership.
Margaret wanted her to be a shadowy assassin for the Sacklers. This was the perfect opportunity to align herself with the Sackler's adversaries!
How many enemies did the Sackler family have? Visible foes and hidden threats; if Paige tried to list them all herself, she might not even scratch the surface.
But here was Margaret, personally handing her this information on a silver platter. How could Paige possibly pass up such an opportunity?
She handed Yannis Xander a detailed proposal. After reviewing it, Yannis Xander looked up in astonishment, "You... you're with Universe? Is this agreement for real?"
It was as real as it gets.
She had sent Pearl South a message only last night, telling her to work with the team nonstop to create this agreement.
While she was out shopping for clothes, the document was safely tucked away in the changing room.
With a slight nod, Paige affirmed, "See the Universe seal stamped on it? After signing, there's no need for Mr. Xander to attend the bidding meeting in an hour. The project will still be yours, with the added benefit of the most powerful ally!"
