Page 96 of My Ruthless Opponent

I go up to the suite to grab my laptop.

After assigning them tasks, I had free time to explore ideas for Round Two. The Grand Proposal.

I have to research the latest trends and gather ideas so I could discuss them with my team later.

I quickly unlock the door, get inside, and grab the laptop bag.

I stop for a second and gaze at the bed. The morning event flashes in my mind.

Shaking my head, I turn and leave the bedroom.

Just as I am about to reach the front door, it opens, and Raleigh breezes inside.

He halts when he finds me a few feet away from him.

“Hey.” He tips his chin up in greeting.

No smirks? He didn’t even mock me by the nickname he loves so much.

“Hey. Done with the preparation?”

Why am I trying to make small talk? It usually invites uninteresting and uncomfortable conversations.

The tension is palpable in the air. I had to say something. Now I am looking like a fool.

“Nope.” He walks toward me, his eyes on me the entire time.

I breathe in his scent as he sidesteps me, his arm brushing mine in the process.

A few seconds later, he reappears at my side.

He holds up a USB flash drive in his hand. “Forgot to take this.”

He tips his chin up again and strides for the door, the flash drive clenched in his fist.

I tell myself his aloof response doesn’t bother me. But that would be a fucking lie.

I am fuming by the time I reach the pool area.

I settle at the table beside a fountain and open my laptop.

After an hour of work, I shut the laptop close and get up to make a few calls.

I dial the Home Care Center first. I ask Dr. Riaz about Dad’s daily update. After a few minutes, I hang up.

I was about to place another call when I spot Raleigh lurking near the edge of the pool area.

With narrowed eyes, I march toward him.

“We are working. You’re not welcome here.” I cross my arms.

He tilts his head. “Your time’s almost up. We are supposed to begin in half an hour.”

“Thanks for the reminder but I don’t remember appointing you as my assistant.” I snap.

The Dreamy Date Round is to be shot today. As my version would be focused on the pool area, I need sunlight.

I don’t know what Raleigh has planned.

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