Jolie smiled lightly and said, “If there’s nothing else, I’ll head back now. Goodbye, Mr. Cooper.”She turned toward the door, but the sound of steady footsteps followed her. He was coming after her. Frowning slightly, she turned back to face him. “What’s this about, Mr. Cooper?”Gavin met her gaze, his expression unreadable. “I haven’t had dinner yet.””Then go eat,” Jolie replied flatly.He countered calmly, “I hired Jackie for you.”Jolie froze.Was he seriously trying to claim credit?Unbelievable. How petty could this man get?Pulling out her phone, she said, “Tell me how much it cost, and I’ll transfer the money to you.”Gavin shook his head. “Just make me a plate of pasta. Consider it payment.”Jolie eyed him suspiciously. “That’s it? Just a plate of pasta?””Yes,” Gavin confirmed.Still unsure, Jolie studied him for a moment, then turned and unlocked her door. She stepped inside, tossing a pair of disposable slippers at his feet.Gavin’s gaze fell briefly to the slippers, then to a second pair by the door. His expression cooled slightly as he changed into the slippers, his eyes scanning the apartment methodically. lan had left earlier-were they living together? The thought alone sparked a dark edge to his mood. He suppressed the urge to vent his frustration, his sharp eyes quickly assessing the room.It didn’t take long to notice the absence of anything that might belong to a man.They weren’t living together.The tension in his chest eased, and his expression softened, though only slightly.Oblivious to his inner turmoil, Jolie pulled out some pasta and asked, “Do you want vegetables in it?””Sure,” he replied simply.”Then take a seat. I’ll call you when it’s ready,” Jolie said as she headed toward the kitchen.”Alright.”Gavin responded with a low hum, shrugging off his suit jacket and tossing it over the armrest of the couch. He loosened his tie, sank into the sofa, and leaned back, closing his eyes as if to rest.The pasta was ready in no time. Jolie tidied up the dining table first before heading to the living room to call Gavin.”Mr. Cooper?”She called out, but there was no response.Walking closer, she saw him leaning back with his eyes closed, exhaustion etched into his features.Seriously?He’d fallen asleep just sitting there. sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ (F)indNƟvᴇl.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.Jolie frowned. She wasn’t about to let him nap here. The sooner he ate and left, the better-it was already disrupting her rest.She reached out and gave him a gentle nudge. “Mr. Cooper, the pasta is ready.”Still no response.Her frown deepened, and she pushed him a little harder.But just then, his hand shot up, grabbing her wrist. Before she could react, a sudden force pulled her forward, and she landed against him, sprawled across his lap One arm wrapped firmly around her waist, while the other pressed gently but insistently against the back of her head, drawing her closer.Jolie’s eyes widened in shock. Herhands flew to his chest, pushing against him with all her might, but he easily overpowered her. No1.nmatter how hard she struggled it was no match for his strength. “What are you doing?” Jolie demanded, her voice sharp andtense.Gavin looked at her, amusement flickering in his dark eyes as she fought against him. A low chuckle escaped him. “Isn’t it obvious? I want to kiss you.” Before she could respond, his hand tightened, pulling her closer.”Mmph!”Her protest was cut off as his lips descended on hers.Unbelievable!His breathing was heavy, and his lips pressed against hers with an intensity that felt like he was releasing pent-up emotions.Jolie squirmed, pushing against his chest, but his grip was relentless. His dominance overwhelmed her resistance, leaving her unable to fight back.