Chapter 135: Leave
They stared at each other for what felt like hours until Zeland finally spoke, shifting his gaze, to her surprise. He claimed his truth, speaking just as she had hoped he would. Naomi noticed the faint pinkness of his ears, and her cheeks flushed at the unexpected cuteness.
She wasn’t sure what it was about him—perhaps the contrast between his intimidating presence and these rare, almost boyish reactions. But something about it stirred warmth in her chest.
Zeland, as always, composed himself quickly, and whatever softness she had caught a glimpse of disappeared just as fast.
After finishing their meal, she took a sip of water before Zeland stood up and reached for her hand. Without hesitation, he led her out of the room, their fingers intertwining effortlessly as they stepped into the elevator.
Naomi felt the warmth of his palm against hers, his grip steady but not forceful. She swallowed, suddenly aware of just how natural it felt.
As they ascended, the soft hum of the elevator filled the silence. Naomi hesitated before bringing up the meeting.
"If it’s something private, I could simply stay behind," she suggested, her voice careful.
Zeland interrupted immediately, his voice firm yet reassuring. "There’s nothing private about the meeting. We’re in this together, remember?"
Her heart fluttered warmly at his words, while Zeland gently caressed the hand he was holding with his thumb before offering her a soft smile. A warmth spread through her as the elevator doors slid open, signaling their arrival at their destination.
The air shifted the moment they stepped out. Naomi immediately noticed several workers waiting in the hallway, their heads bowed in respect. The atmosphere was thick with unspoken tension, but Zeland paid them no mind—his full attention remained on her, ensuring she was okay.
She almost asked if something was wrong, but before she could, they stepped outside, where the chauffeur promptly opened the car door. Zeland guided her in first, sliding in beside her before the door clicked shut.