Second Chance: Marrying into Wealth Chapter 280

I almost forgot how sharp Christopher's tongue could be.

No need for an apology like that.

I thought once Christopher apologized, he'd cut me some slack.

But nope, he just let me catch my breath before making me run again.

By the time I was done, I felt like I'd lost half my life.

I was drenched, like I'd just jumped out of a pool.

"Mr. Collins, I'm heading back to change and shower," I said, barely able to muster the energy.

Tiana had mentioned she made my favorite breakfast, and I couldn't refuse, but now I had no appetite left.

Christopher, however, casually said, "No need to go all the way back. There's a bathroom in the next room, and you can find some clothes in the cabinet."

I was so sweaty and uncomfortable that the thought of walking back in my soaked clothes and then facing the cold wind outside made me certain I'd catch a cold.

So, I didn't refuse Christopher's offer and went to the bathroom next door to shower.

After my shower, wrapped in a towel, I opened the cabinet to find clothes, only to be stunned by the sight of women's clothing.

My first thought was that Christopher indeed had a girl he liked.

He must have prepared for her to stay over, which was why there were clothes in my size.

I chose a simple white dress, the most comfortable option.

When I came downstairs in the dress, Christopher had already showered and changed, waiting by the dining table.

His hair was still slightly damp, with droplets sliding down his neck to his collarbone, giving off an inexplicable allure.

"Come eat," Christopher said calmly, noticing my gaze and gesturing for me to join him.

I rubbed my sore arms as I walked over, limping slightly.

Christopher couldn't help but glance at me twice, and I felt like he was smirking at my condition.

I glared at him, "Mr. Collins, you seem quite pleased with yourself for pushing me this hard!"

Christopher actually nodded, "Indeed."

I ground my teeth, biting into my bread with a vengeance.

He finally seemed to notice my genuine frustration and added, "As a reward, lunch will feature authentic international cuisine, prepared by a top chef."

I was taken aback, "Isn't that only available in Rosewood City? Are you pulling my leg, Mr. Collins?"

I knew his schedule; it couldn't have been a spur-of-the-moment decision.

Christopher explained, "Someone invited the chef to Starlight City for a special event, and I took the opportunity to invite him."

Of course, Christopher had connections that could bring a chef to his doorstep.

I had initially refused, but now if I changed my mind, Christopher would definitely tease me for being a glutton.

I was at a loss for words.

Christopher smiled at me, "Paula mentioned wanting to invite us for a meal. I invited her too. Are you really not coming? Too bad, you'll miss out."

"Alright, Mr. Collins, I can't refuse your invitation."

This time, I didn't hesitate and agreed immediately.

I felt like Christopher was smiling.

Oh well, at least I would get to eat something delicious, even if he teased me.

Authentic international cuisine, something Paula had mentioned several times, was hard to come by, especially for those of us who rarely visited Rosewood City.

I messaged Paula privately, and she was excitedly commenting on it.

However, when Christopher and I went to the restaurant, I suddenly received a message from Paula.

"Melinda, I can't make it. Something came up last minute," Paula said over the phone, sounding regretful.

Well, nothing to be done about it. Paula just had bad luck.

I consoled her briefly, and she hung up, busy as always.

To make up for it, she asked me to apologize to Christopher on her behalf and promised to send a thank-you gift later.

After all, Christopher had helped her several times, and she had promised to treat us this time but couldn't make it.

I relayed Paula's message to Christopher, "She regrets not being able to join us for the meal. She's just taken over the Ellis family business and is swamped."

I had also checked in on Paula, concerned about her situation at the Ellis Group, especially with other family members eyeing her position and hiring people to bully her. I reminded her to be careful.

Fortunately, Paula had already taken precautions, which put my mind at ease.

Christopher wasn't upset at all. Instead, he was understanding, "It's tough to gain control at the Ellis Group. It's normal for her to be busy. I understand."

His understanding made me look at Christopher twice.

Honestly, Christopher was the perfect man.

He and Paula were well-matched in every way, from their backgrounds to their abilities.

A sudden thought crossed my mind: could Christopher's crush be Paula?

Thinking about how Christopher had always been gentle and indulgent with Paula, helping her whenever she needed it, I felt conflicted.

Remembering what happened between Christopher and me that night only added to my confusion.

Lost in thought, I almost hit my head on the car roof when getting out.

Thankfully, Christopher placed his hand on my forehead to protect me and held my hand to help me out, "Daydreaming again? Aren't you afraid of getting a concussion?"

Being so close, I could smell his unique scent, making my heart race and my face flush.

Christopher noticed my sudden blush and thought I had a fever. He reached out to touch my forehead, "Are you okay? Do you have a fever?"

I could see the worry in his eyes, probably concerned that he had pushed me too hard during our morning workout.

I dodged his hand and explained, "I'm fine. It's just hot in the car."

Christopher seemed relieved.

During lunch, I decided to set aside my suspicions and just enjoy the meal.

I had to admit, the long-awaited dishes did not disappoint. Each one was incredibly delicious.

After lunch, Christopher and I left together.

Instead of taking me back to the office right away, Christopher led me to the clothing section.

"Let's pick out some workout clothes, so you won't have any excuses to skip training," Christopher said with a smile.

I felt like he was mocking me, and I had proof.

But I couldn't argue with him. After all, he was doing it for my own good, so I obediently followed him.

As soon as we entered the store, a sales associate warmly greeted us.

Christopher pointed to a few sets of women's workout clothes, "Size small, please. She'll try them on."

The sales associate immediately praised him, "You have a great eye, sir. These styles will look fantastic on your girlfriend."

I didn't mind Christopher picking out the workout clothes since he knew more about fitness gear than I did.

But when the sales associate misunderstood our relationship, I blushed and quickly clarified, "I'm not..."