Callie shrugged indifferently. “Anyone who knows you can figure out our relationship the minute they see me, Mr. Oconnor. Hiding doesn’t seem to work.”
Many things became clear after learning the truth, including why Bridger, his friend, looked at her so intriguingly the other day, and why Jaquan was so quick to figure out her identity. It was all because of this face that resembled Maeve’s so much.
Nelson pressed his tongue against his cheek, clearly displeased with her backtalk. He sneered and laughed, “Callie, why are you throwing a tantrum at me?”
Callie picked up her bag, slightly tipsy. “I’m not. I’m just stating facts.”
She pushed open the door of the private room and found Cora still standing there, her gaze anything but friendly.
Callie didn’t care, walking out on high heels. She seemed unsteady but graceful.
“Mr. Oconnor, Miss Marsh is drunk. It’s not safe for her to go back alone. I’ll take her home.” Cora turned, trying to read his mind.
Nelson’s reply was cold and almost petulant, “No need.”
Cora stiffened, surprised by the rejection. The atmosphere inside hadn’t been harmonious, yet Nelson was still protective of that woman! She bit her lip but dared not insist.
The alcohol was strong. Under the watchful eyes of several men, Callie staggered out of the restaurant, leaning against a tree to vomit.
She felt embarrassed. Growing up in Ylosea, she didn’t have a single trustworthy friend, someone who would pick her up when she was drunk and distressed. How pathetic.
A few men tried to approach her, but she waved them away with her bag. She pulled out her phone to call a cab, but the traffic was too congested, and no taxis were available.
Just then, a Rolls-Royce glided to a stop in front of her, the door opening automatically. Nelson’s face didn’t seem nice. “Get in.”
Callie wanted to say no, but her remaining sense told her if she didn’t leave now, she might be waiting until dawn.
As soon as she got in, the driver smartly raised the partition.
Nelson showed no expression. He opened the small refrigerator, took out a bottle of cold water, twisted the cap, and placed it against Callie’s lips, his movements fluid.
Callie stiffened her neck and, after a moment, turned her head. “I’m not thirsty.”
His arm, strong and insistent, held her in place. The next second, he forced her jaw open, making her tilt her head back. “Hmm…”
Nelson’s face looked dangerous in the dark. He narrowed his eyes. “I’m being nice to you, Callie.”
This domineering display made Callie uncomfortable. She swallowed her fear and stayed silent.
Nelson increased the pressure, forcibly pouring the cold water into her mouth. Water spilled everywhere, and Callie started coughing violently, her teeth almost freezing.
She struggled desperately, even hitting Nelson with her bag. “Don’t touch me!”
Her bag left red marks on Nelson’s bare arm, but his grip didn’t loosen. He shoved two fingers into her mouth, completely controlling her.
“Ruining such an important night for me, and you still dare to throw a tantrum. I’ve told you, know your place and stay in line. Are you deaf?” Nelson’s voice dropped menacingly. He was so mad that he could almost strangle her.
Usually, Callie wouldn’t act so recklessly, but maybe it was the alcohol. All the pent-up frustration burst out. She remained silent, refusing to give in.
The air grew thin, Callie’s face turned red, and she almost passed out. After a long moment, Nelson suddenly let her go, pulling out a wet wipe to clean his fingers one by one.
“If it happens again, I’ll hand you over to Jaquan myself.”