Chapter 48 Contract Signing
Rafael slid the contract across the table toward Hera, urging her to peruse it thoroughly before proceeding. "Take your time to review the contract," he said, offering her a fountain pen. Leaning back in his chair, he fixed his gaze upon her face, attentively observing her every expression as she delved into the document with earnest concentration.
As he observed her, Rafael found himself contemplating another perspective. He couldn’t shake the feeling that a woman like Hera wouldn’t readily compromise her dignity and allow herself to be trampled upon. After all, if she were inclined to do so, she wouldn’t have taken such bold measures during the interview.
Rafael relied solely on deduction without concrete evidence, prompting him to cut to the chase and address his suspicions indirectly. "While you’re reviewing the contract, I hope you don’t mind me asking," he began cautiously. "I couldn’t help but notice your exquisite watch. Was it a gift from someone?" His inquiry was intended to gauge her reaction and provide insight into his concerns.
Alternatively, perhaps Rafael simply refused to accept the idea of Hera being reduced to a mere plaything for some unknown sugar daddy. The thought gnawed at him, causing him to clench his teeth in frustration and disbelief. He couldn’t quite pinpoint why he was so bothered, but perhaps it was simply a matter of ensuring that his future investment wouldn’t lead to trouble down the line.
With a raised eyebrow, Hera glanced up from her reading, meeting Rafael’s gaze. To other people, the item adorning her wrist might easily be mistaken for a bracelet rather than a watch, lacking any obvious indicators of its true function. In fact, Hera herself remained uncertain; were it not displayed among the watches in the glass case, she might not have recognized its intended purpose.
So, Hera concluded that Rafael likely recognized the item for what it truly was and was possibly testing the waters. Uncertain of his intentions—whether simple curiosity or something more nefarious—she opted for a response. "Oh, this?" she began, gesturing to her wrist. "I initially thought it was a bracelet due to its exquisite design. A friend lent it to me today for the class reunion later." While her statement wasn’t entirely false, Hera withheld certain details. She recognized the need to exercise caution with someone like Rafael; after all, she couldn’t discern his motives for inquiring at this juncture.
Rafael felt a surge of relief upon hearing Hera’s response. If she was referring to a friend, then there was only one possibility—the Lowry family’s daughter. Given her mother’s involvement in the fashion industry and extensive collection of precious jewelry, it seemed entirely plausible. His mood shifted dramatically for the better, realizing that there was still hope. He resolved to extend an invitation for Hera to become his artist, envisioning a scenario where both of them could find happiness. With him as her benefactor, she would have a stable income, eliminating any temptation to engage in dubious activities.
Then it dawned on him. ’So, she’s aware of her friend’s identity. Does that make her a gold digger then? But if it was merely lent, then she couldn’t be, could she?’ After dispelling one concern, another alarm bell began to ring.
He continued his inquiry with finesse, aiming to avoid raising Hera’s suspicions. "Ah, a class reunion? That explains the noticeable difference in your outfit today."