Live with a system) Chapter 21
Mera
Riley looked away, turning on the AC, starting the car. The atmosphere was awkward. Alex’s gaze lingered on her. Then he looked away, leaning his head on his hand,
“Even my dog didn’t leave me, and you did.”
She couldn’t argue. She glared at him. He chuckled.“I forgive you.”
Riley replied stiffly, “Thanks.”
Alex watched her, seeming to study her changes over these months. She seemed thinner, happier.
was like she had been infused with a lot of energy.
He narrowed his eyes. Was she happy without him? He shouldn’t have asked her to pick him up. But she was the one who left without a word…
Riley asked, “Why did you suddenly return?” Was there a problem with his work or mental state? His agent, Brenda, hadn’t contacted her, so he was probably fine.
She frowned, worrying. This had become her professional habit.
He chuckled.“I came back for you.”
Riley choked. He was a good boss who would provide her everything. He didn’t care about most things and had close relationships with his team. The problem was, he seemed to like her Brenda called, interrupting the moment.
“Riley, Alex came back without telling me. Did you pick him up?”
Riley replied formally, “Yes. He’s with me.”
Alex frowned slightly. Brenda, who knew Alex well, didn’t ask more. She told Riley, “I might not be back for a while. Please take care of him.”
The conversation felt familiar- it had happened a lot of times when Riley was his assistant. She felt trapped. Even after quitting, she was still under his influence. She sighed. She hung up. Alex said meaningfully, “Riley, take good care of me.”
Riley felt uneasy. He rarely called her by her name.
“Uh–huh.” She mumbled, avoiding a direct answer.
He set the destination. It was a wealthy area near her apartment. She looked away silently. The car was comfortable. Alex closed his eyes, drowsy.
“Will you leave here again?” he asked softly.
Riley paused, then turned on the turn signal.
Alex didn’t press. Riley said while driving, “No. I’m staying here. It makes me feel better.” Alex adjusted his position and closed his eyes.
“Okay.”
Riley felt confused. She thought this answer would push Alex away, but he didn’t refute. She felt uneasy and disappointed. She didn’t understand. Her emotions were inexplicably tied to him. She hated this but she couldn’t say no to this.
Alex slept soundly, holding himself a sign of insecurity. He was usually vigilant and rarely slept
per 35
in the car. He’d said he was afraid of being kidnapped. But with Riley around, he slept peacefully. Riley felt really sorry for him.
She was rarely sympathetic, but Alex often made her heart ache. She sighed and adjusted the AC.
Alex woke up as they entered the complex. He leaned forward to verify his address.
Hella‘
The security guard remained calm, although his eyes were widened when he saw the famous actor. Riley was a bit uneasy, Alex was very close to her.
