From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace novel Chapter 103

When it came to sincerity, Baal suddenly looked a little uncomfortable. He’d really misjudged Laurinda. He’d thought she was just an eighteen-year-old girl, clever maybe, but still too young to know how the world really worked.

But after meeting her, he realized how wrong he’d been. Her calm, steady gaze was nothing like the innocence he’d expected. It made him cautious, almost nervous.

He cleared his throat, picked up his glass, and took a sip of water, but still didn’t say a word.

From the game room, Sam watched Baal stalling and couldn’t help but comment, “He’s really dragging this out. Doesn’t seem like someone who gets things done.”

Adolphus was quietly observing too. He was hearing about Laurinda’s parents for the first time. He’d always known Laurinda had no love for the Austin family and assumed she’d just given up after they kicked her out. Now it seemed there was more to the story than he realized.

Laurinda noticed Baal’s silence. She tapped her fingers lightly on the table and smiled. “Baal, if you need more time to think, go home and take your time. I’m not in a rush.”

Baal got even more embarrassed, realizing she could see right through him. He honestly didn’t know how to start. The plan he’d come up with was more than enough for the Laurinda he’d imagined, but for the real Laurinda sitting here now, it wasn’t nearly enough. He’d come across as insincere, maybe even disrespectful.

When Baal still didn’t move, Laurinda’s smile faded and her voice took on a cool edge. “Baal, if there’s nothing else, I’ll have the butler show you out. I have other guests today. It’s not a good time for you to stay for lunch.”

The mention of other guests made Baal snap to attention. He shot Laurinda a look, as if blaming her for letting him spill his secrets when there were people around.

Laurinda just smiled back, completely unfazed by his reaction. She didn’t care what he thought. In her eyes, Baal was just an outsider. He had no say in her business.

“Please, Baal, let the butler see you out. If you want to talk, set something up with me in advance. I’d rather not discuss things at home.”

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