The Unwilling CEO's Love Game novel Chapter 144

The arrival of Willow in this sleepy little village had Jocelyn convinced the world had gone mad.

Draped in a pristine designer down jacket with flawless makeup, Willow was a stark contrast to the rustic surroundings.

The village chief was unfamiliar with the faces of celebrities. He had just been informed via telephone that a star was visiting their village. Oblivious to who she was, he felt obliged to welcome her.

He had seen on TV how celebrities would visit rural areas and experience the simple life for a few days. In turn, they would promote local development.

The village chief thought it rather fortuitous that a star had taken an interest in their little village. Word would get out, and the exposure could only be beneficial.

When Willow caught sight of Jocelyn, the surprise was mutual. Willow hadn't expected to find Jocelyn here, but she quickly pieced together why Melvin might have sought refuge in such backwoods retreat.

"Jocelyn, what a coincidence!" Willow greeted, masking the awkwardness with her tone.

The village head was baffled.

Jocelyn knew this celebrity?

Jocelyn merely nodded slightly, showing no interest in engaging further.

Willow's gaze shifted between Jocelyn and Harrison, a knowing look in her eyes. "So you two lovebirds finally nested. Congratulations."

Despite being polite by nature, Jocelyn wanted nothing more than to drop all pretenses of civility where Willow was concerned.

Harrison, aware of Jocelyn's distaste for the woman, chose to ignore her.

Willow's face stiffened at the snub. She hastily changed the topic, adopting an air of delight as she spread her arms wide, closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Ah, the air's so fresh here. No wonder Melvin ran off to this place."

The village head was taken aback. Another acquaintance of Mr. Martinez's?

It seemed like everyone from the city knew each other.

To be precise, ever since Jocelyn and Ursula had arrived, the village had been buzzing with activities.

So, the catalyst was Jocelyn and Ursula?

No, it was primarily Jocelyn.

Willow flashed a smile at Uriah. "Sir, could you show me to Melvin, please?"

Uriah could hardly decline. Guests, especially celebrities, were to be treated with respect for the sake of the village's future.

As Willow's assistant scurried behind her carrying her bags, Harrison expressed his concern for Jocelyn. "Can you handle her on your own?"

Jocelyn was unfazed. "As long as there's no brawl, I can handle everything."

Seeing Harrison's worry, Jocelyn patted his shoulder. "Relax, she's too concerned with her image to make a scene. Plus, Ursula's here. She's got my back."

"I'm not worried about a fight. It's her and Melvin..." Harrison trailed off, but Jocelyn understood his concern.

The fear was that Willow might cling to Melvin, making things uncomfortable for Jocelyn.

Jocelyn chuckled. "You're overthinking it. Even if that were the case, it might be a good thing. It'd help me move on faster, right?"

Harrison considered her point and found some logic in it.

"You sure you're okay?"

"I'm fine," Jocelyn affirmed. "Don't worry, even if she does stir up some drama, she'll have to keep her cool. It's actually better if she's here. She can take Melvin off my sight, and I'll have more peace."

Harrison really didn't want to leave her alone, but he had commitments back home he couldn't break.

"Go on, get going," Jocelyn urged, opening the car door for him. "Stop dawdling."

With reluctance, Harrison lingered at the car door with his gaze lingering on Jocelyn. Suddenly, he released the door and pulled her into a tight embrace.

Jocelyn, almost unsteady from the force of his hug, just smiled. "Don't make it sound so final. It's not like we won't see each other again."

"I want to take you home," Harrison's voice was husky, his arms tightening around her. He meant it.

Jocelyn patted his back. "I have to stay here for a month. If I left now, I'd disappoint the kids and break my promise."

Harrison knew it was just a wishful thought to whisk her away.

"The next time you do a volunteer teaching stint, let me know," Harrison said with a complaining look, "Don't let me be the last to find out."