Chapter 346

Liam Sullivan's expression was distant, his tone indifferent.

"It's unnecessary."

Those three short words erected an invisible barrier, pushing others away.

Chloe Winston felt disheartened.

She couldn't help but press further.

"Did I do something wrong? Have I upset you?"

"No." A flicker of impatience crossed Liam's brow, though he maintained a calm facade.

"I have urgent matters. Please step aside."

An icy aura radiated from him, cold enough to freeze anyone in their tracks.

Chloe remained undeterred.

She instead offered a bright smile.

"You helped me last time. I'd like to treat you to a meal as thanks."

"Not required." Liam's refusal was swift and absolute.

"Then perhaps a gift?"

"Miss Winston." Liam's voice deepened, turning stern.

"Your time would be better spent on more meaningful pursuits."

His gaze sharpened like a blade.

"Such as meeting people more suitable for you."

Chloe's face paled slightly.

She muttered under her breath.

"It's just a meal. Why so distant?"

Liam had no interest in further conversation.

He started the engine.

He remembered Vivian Bennett was waiting at home.

He knew she wouldn't cause trouble, yet he couldn't stop thinking about her.

Faced with Chloe's persistence, his patience had worn thin.

"Miss Winston, let go." His voice was frigid.

"I need to drive."

Chloe gripped the window frame tighter.

"Are you really this difficult? I'm not going to eat you."

A sudden idea struck her.

"If you're worried about Miss Bennett's misunderstanding, invite her along! She can't be that petty, right?"

The corner of Liam's mouth lifted almost imperceptibly.

He recalled Vivian's bossy warning against touching other women.

That very pettiness amused him greatly.

Ignoring Chloe, he pressed the accelerator.

The car lurched forward abruptly.

Caught off guard, Chloe stumbled several steps and fell heavily to the ground.

A pained cry echoed from behind.

Liam hit the brakes.

In the rearview mirror, Chloe sat on the pavement, grimacing in pain.

Her knees and shins were scraped, beads of blood seeping through.

She had never been injured like this before.

Sharp intakes of breath hissed through her teeth from the sting.

Liam's brow furrowed tightly.

His expression grew even more impatient.