Chapter 176

Alexander Grant still wore yesterday's suit, his bloodshot eyes betraying a sleepless night.

Susan Thompson recalled his words about her possessing the purest soul in the world, then remembered how he'd sent Kevin Oak to humiliate her last night. Her eyes reddened instantly.

She took half a step back, forcing composure. "Mr. Grant, are you here for your coat?"

Alexander remained silent, his burning gaze fixed on her pallid face.

Fate was cruel. Some women couldn't stir his heart after years of acquaintance, yet Susan had left the deepest mark after one meeting.

Unforgettable.

And he refused to forget.

The cold wind painted her porcelain skin with faint pink, making her appear fragile as glass.

His eyes dropped to the horrifying bruises around her neck, his brows furrowing violently.

When he noticed the vicious wound on her right hand, his breath hitched.

But what shocked him most was her bandaged left hand—missing a finger.

"Excuse me." Susan avoided his gaze, her voice barely audible. "I need to open the door for your coat."

Keys jingled faintly in her trembling hands. Each step sent searing pain through her swollen ankle.

Vincent King's shove last night had caused the sprain, and this morning's long walk worsened it. Yet she kept her spine straight, refusing to show weakness before this man.

The simple act of unlocking the door became an ordeal.

"Your coat is on the sofa." She wiped her right hand carefully with a tissue before lifting the suit jacket.

Alexander took it as if waking from a dream, his Adam's apple bobbing.

"Please leave." Her tone was flat. "I need to shower."

Those telltale marks on her neck stabbed his eyes. He suddenly understood—she wanted to wash away last night's humiliation.

And it all stemmed from his decision.

"Susan—"

"Don't worry, I won't tell Mr. Nash about last night." Her lips curved bitterly. "As I said, you did nothing wrong."

"That's not—"

"Really, it wasn't necessary." She interrupted softly. "I know I'm beneath your notice, but believe me, I never aimed above my station."

"We won't meet again." Leaning against the wall, she moved toward the door, each step like walking on knives. "The door's open. Please go."

Suddenly, Alexander stepped forward and pulled her into a crushing embrace.