Chapter 28 Being Liked by Ansel

Gardenia had no idea when Ansel had arrived back in the country or how long he'd been waiting there. She walked over with slightly diffident steps. Then, she greeted him with utmost formality, "Mr. Leager." Ansel's hand that held the cigarette paused for a second. He was clearly not pleased with her formal tone, but he said nothing about it. Tessa, who came up behind Gardenia, froze for a few seconds before stepping forward. "This is my friend, Tessa Booker," Gardenia spoke in a serious tone, introducing Tessa as if she were making a report to a superior. Picking up on the subtle, cautious undertone in her voice, he merely knitted his brows, showing no intention of calling her out on it. "Right." "I've heard so much about you, Mr. Leager. It's truly an honor to meet you." Tessa instantly shifted from her earlier, lighthearted attitude to full-on professional mode, giving Ansel a polite handshake. "Let's head in." With that, Ansel stubbed out his cigarette and led the way. Only