Early in the morning, Aldrich had a change of heart and didn’t indulge Maggie’s desire to sleep in. He gently woke her and said, “Time to get up, dear Maggie. How about accompanying me to the office today?”
A drowsy Maggie asked in confusion, “Go to the office?”
“Yes, even Aldrich sometimes needs company.”
Maggie had other plans. She wanted to visit the flower shop and continue her conversation with Mrs. Jenkins. She had a feeling that Mrs. Jenkins would reveal some surprising information.
“But I’m tired too and would like to rest. If the weather’s good, I’ll go to Mrs. Jenkins’ shop and admire the flowers. But most importantly, I’m genuinely concerned about Mrs. Jenkins’ injuries.”
“You’re very considerate. If you’re worried about Mrs. Jenkins, I can send someone to check on her and report back.”
Sitting on the bed, Maggie looked at the handsome man in the morning light. Their time together had taught her that Aldrich always had ulterior motives.
Aldrich pinched Maggie’s cheek and compromised, “Or you can invite Mrs. Jenkins to my office. Don’t worry; she’ll be well taken care of there.”
“So, in any case, you just don’t want me out of your sight?”
Maggie saw through Aldrich’s intentions, and he chuckled helplessly.
“Yes, Maggie, I don’t want you to feel anxious. But the fact is, the attacker from yesterday is still under investigation, and you spent the whole night having nightmares. I can’t bear the thought of any possibility of you being unsafe.”
Maggie sighed deeply and complained to her unborn babies, “Turns out your dad is gentle when he needs to be, but he has a strong will. I hope you come out soon; I wonder how you’ll get along with your dad.”
After a nutritious breakfast, Maggie got into Aldrich’s car, and they drove together to the headquarters building.
As Aldrich led Maggie into the grand headquarters, the receptionists and security personnel bowed respectfully. When they raised their heads, their jaws dropped, recognizing Maggie as the girl they had previously avoided and kicked out of the building, left exposed to the cold.
Entering the top-floor CEO’s office, Maggie was overwhelmed. The opulence of the office and the magnificent view from the high vantage point left her momentarily speechless. She couldn’t help but recall her earlier experience waiting downstairs for Aldrich to appear, making her feel insignificant. Maggie understood deeply that the rift between her and Aldrich had surpassed the differences in their species and now encompassed their disparate social standings. The office’s luxury symbolized power and influence, highlighting the vast gap between her previous humble rented room and Aldrich’s corporate empire.
“Boss, these are your orders, specially prepared desserts for the lady.”
With Aldrich’s permission, the secretary wheeled a small cart over to Maggie. “Miss, take your time, and if you need anything, just let me know.”
Maggie looked at Aldrich in surprise and delighted to find that two of the desserts on the cart were the ones she and the maid had talked about. She hadn’t expected to see them in front of her today.
“Aldrich, you’re incredibly considerate,” Maggie sincerely thanked him.
“No, Maggie, making desserts for you is just as rewarding as enjoying them with you.”
Maggie hesitated for a moment, realizing that the usually serious Mr. Barrett had just smoothly delivered a sweet compliment. Her ears couldn’t help but blush, and she looked at Aldrich, who smiled lightly.
Maggie sat in Aldrich’s office, savoring the delicious desserts he had prepared for her. With each bite, her gaze turned to Aldrich, who seemed to be juggling a thousand tasks, completely engrossed in a series of consecutive meetings. People were coming and going in and out of the office, and when they saw Maggie, their eyes widened in surprise. Some even turned back in astonishment, almost bumping into the walls. The news of Mr. Barrett bringing a woman to the company had caused a great deal of curiosity. Considering that everyone in the company believed Mr. Barrett wasn’t interested in women, it was an unprecedented event. And now, this young woman was right in front of them, obviously pregnant with his child.
Maggie observed the flurry of activity around her, and her heart raced with excitement and anxiety. She knew that her presence in the office would cause a sensation, but realizing that she was carrying Aldrich’s child made the situation even more complicated. As those curious glances settled on her, it felt like the entire company’s eyes were scrutinizing her, evaluating her worth and her place in Aldrich’s world.
Aldrich was immersed in his work but stole a glance at Maggie. When he saw her in his office, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and protectiveness, which reminded him of the connection they shared. He was aware of the rumors and speculations circulating among the employees, but he was determined to shield Maggie from any unnecessary judgment or scrutiny.
Aldrich excused himself from the meeting, signaling for the attendees to continue without him. He walked over to Maggie, his expression a mix of concern and tenderness. “I’m sorry to have kept you waiting, Maggie. A lot has happened, but I wanted to make sure you’re comfortable.”
Maggie gave him a warm smile, her delicate fingers tracing the edge of the dessert tray. “It’s okay, Aldrich. I understand. Your work is important, and I’m just glad to be with you.”
Aldrich pulled a chair closer, reaching for her hand. His touch was reassuring. “You mean the world to me, Maggie. I know this environment can be overwhelming, but I want you to know you’re not alone. I’ll always be by your side.”
Her eyes glistened with indescribable gratitude as she gently held his hand. “I trust you, Aldrich. It’s just… here, surrounded by your colleagues, it’s hard not to feel out of place.”
Aldrich leaned in closer, his voice softly murmuring, “You belong here, Maggie. This is our journey, and I want the whole world to know that. I won’t let anyone destroy what we have.”
The phone on the table rang, and Aldrich pressed the speaker button. Charlie’s voice came through, “Boss, the new candidates are in position, awaiting your command.”
“Alright, are they selected strictly according to the screening criteria?” Aldrich inquired.
“Yes, it’s regarding Miss Nelson, and I didn’t take it lightly,” Charlie responded.
Upon hearing Charlie mention her name, Maggie looked puzzled and asked, “Is this related to me?”
Aldrich stood up from his spacious desk and walked over to Maggie in the lounge area. “Yes, I’ve handpicked a batch of highly capable and responsive wolf bodyguards for you.”
Maggie had no objections; she now understood her significance. However, when she saw the lineup of the new bodyguards, she couldn’t help but be surprised.
Maggie was greeted by a row of handsome men standing before Aldrich. Each exuded an air of authority, with sharply defined features and the physique of bodybuilders.
“Are you… sure you want me to choose?” Maggie blinked, finding herself involuntarily drawn closer to the bodyguards.
Suddenly, Aldrich felt a surge of frustration. He deeply envied the admiration and affection in Maggie’s eyes as she looked at the bodyguards. It drove him to make a more extreme move –
He grabbed Maggie, pulling her into his arms. Before they knew it, his warm lips were pressed against hers, a passionate and irresistible kiss. His hands roamed Maggie’s backside, asserting his dominance to everyone. Maggie was taken aback but found herself enjoying every moment.
Maggie suddenly realized her entire face was flushed. She tried to downplay it. “I… I just got some cream on my lips, didn’t I?”
He nodded, acknowledging that they both knew the conclusion was a lie. “Yes, it’s gone now.”
“Do we still need to choose bodyguards?”
“No need. They are assigned to you, and they will protect you when you leave me.”
Maggie bit her lip. “Will you feel at ease with them around?”
“They are the best among the wolf pack. I can’t think of anyone who could defeat so many wolves at once.”
Maggie was satisfied with Aldrich’s response and immediately suggested going to the flower shop. “I’d like to visit Mrs. Jenkins. If I bring these bodyguards with me, would you agree?”
Aldrich looked at Maggie and hesitated for a moment, noting her lips blushing from their passionate kiss. An unusual emotion swept over him, rendering him unable to express his refusal. His voice was sincere. “Maggie, I understand you might feel it’s a bit excessive, but I can’t risk anything happening to you. The world is unpredictable, and I want to ensure your safety.”
Maggie sighed, realizing that Aldrich’s protectiveness stemmed from genuine concern. She reached out, placing her hand on his chest, feeling his steady heartbeat. “I know you’re just taking care of me, Aldrich. But… I don’t want to attract unnecessary attention. I already feel like I’m living in a fishbowl; I need my social space.”
Aldrich’s expression softened, and his fingers gently traced circles on the back of her hand. “I understand, Maggie. But please allow me to do this for peace of mind. It won’t be for long, and your safety means everything to me.”
Maggie nodded in resignation, her eyes expressing gratitude and understanding. “Alright, Aldrich. I trust your judgment.”
Aldrich’s lips curved into a reassuring smile, and he leaned in to place a gentle kiss on her forehead.