Chapter 214

The contract, in black and white, was now in Serena's hands. Without hesitation, she followed Hugh as they prepared to head home. Once in the car, Serena turned her head to look at Hugh. "Thank you for standing up for me today." Hugh didn't respond or say a word. The dappled light from outside flickered across his chiseled features. As always, Serena couldn't quite read his expression. Just like every time before, she never understood why Hugh always seemed to show up just when she needed help. She wasn't bothered by the lack of response. But recalling the way Hugh had left that day, his mood shifting unpredictably, left her uneasy. She couldn't help herself, leaning closer. Her delicate hand rested next to his large palm—one small, one large, one sun-kissed, the other fair. The contrast was striking. "We're still the best of allies, right?" Serena asked cautiously, her nose nearly brushing against his shoulder. Her voice was so close, in almost a whisper. Hugh finally couldn