The Queen's Back

PRACH

31

Maxwell asked, "Which country are you heading to?" absentmindedly rubbing his fingers together as he pondered something.

"Arkenvale," Mona replied honestly. She had asked the manager before leaving and had also obtained Artemis Rain's assistant's contact information.

"Wait for me at home. I'll go with you. I have a contract to sign in Arkenvale in a couple of days," Maxwell said.

Hearing that Maxwell would accompany her, Mona felt a wave of happiness. "Great, I'll wait for you at home. There's no rush."

The manager had mentioned that Artemis would be in Arkenvale for a week to shoot a commercial. If things went well, Mona hoped to spend some time exploring the country with Maxwell, which might strengthen their bond. After ending the call, Mona felt much better. She also called her grandparents to let them know she and Maxwell were going abroad, omitting the part about her design being swapped to avoid worrying them.

In her heart, Mona suspected Barbara of switching her design, though she had no proof. She kept this in mind, planning to settle scores from both her past and present lives in due time.

Meanwhile, after ending the call, Maxwell told the board members the meeting was adjourned. The directors were surprised by his uncharacteristic behavior, which deviated from his usual businesslike demeanor. Maxwell left the meeting room and returned to his office, with his assistant, Nigel, following behind.

"I'll handle the negotiations in Arkenvale myself. You come with me and have Bud manage the company," Maxwell said, eager to return home.

"But, sir, wasn't Bud supposed to handle the trip to Arkenvale?" Nigel asked, puzzled. The deal in Arkenvale wasn't particularly critical, so it seemed unusual for Maxwell to go personally. Maxwell didn't answer Nigel's question, instead reiterating, "I'll go. Inform Bud, and we'll meet at the airport later."

With that, Maxwell left the office and drove home.

When he arrived, Mona was already there, busy packing. Watching her, Maxwell felt a surge of warmth. Since their marriage, the house increasingly felt like a home.

Mona sensed a strong gaze on her and turned to see Maxwell watching her intently with his alluring eyes.

She flashed him a sweet smile. "You're back. I packed a few clothes and your essentials. Check if I've missed anything."

Maxwell stepped closer, looking at her with affection. "It's fine. We can buy anything we need later. Let's go; I've had Nigel book the tickets."

Mona nodded. It was a fortunate coincidence that her design being swapped meant she could accompany Maxwell on his trip. Otherwise, she would have been left alone in Nathontown.

At the airport, which was bustling with people, Maxwell hesitated for a moment before taking Mona's hand. "It's crowded. I don't want us to get separated, so I'll hold your hand for safety." Maxwell spoke earnestly, using the crowded airport as an excuse to hold Mona's hand, though his real intention was simply

to be close to her.

Mona felt a bit shy but nodded, sensing that Maxwell was starting to develop feelings for her. It seemed her efforts were beginning to pay off, and she felt encouraged to keep trying. 08:24 Mon,

Maxwell's hand was large, with long, well-defined fingers, and the warmth from his grasp gave Mona a profound sense of security.

Walking alongside Maxwell, Mona couldn't help but

design being swapped seemed to fade away, leavimile, feeling as if she were floating. The earlier distress about her

her thoughts focused solely on Maxwell.

When they reached Nigel, he was momentarily taken aback, rubbing his eyes to ensure he wasn't seeing things. Maxwell, known for his reserved demeanor, was holding someone's hand. Nigel wondered to himself about their marriage, initially thinking it was a strategic alliance. Why were they holding hands

now?

Soon, Nigel realized they might be putting on a show for others. If someone took a photo and posted it online, it could affect both their reputations.

Feeling clever for figuring it out, Nigel eagerly approached them and took their luggage.ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

"Boss, the tickets are all set," Nigel informed Maxwell.

Maxwell nodded slightly and followed them through check-in and onto the plane.

The plane quickly taxied down the runway, soaring into the sky and leaving a white contrail against the blue.

In first class, Mona gazed out at the sky and clouds. Maxwell handed her a paper cup. "Have some water. We have a few hours ahead. You should rest."

1

Mona accepted the cup with a smile, her mind drifting to all Maxwell had done for her. Even now, she found it hard to believe that someone so seemingly aloof would go to such lengths for her. Yet, he had avenged her and ensured justice was served. Maxwell noticed Mona's lingering gaze, filled with gratitude, and was curious about its cause. Meeting her eyes, he felt an inexplicable pang deep within.

Instinctively, he held her hand and asked, "What's on your mind? You can tell me anything. We're a team."

Mona realized she'd been lost in thought and looked at their intertwined hands. Shaking her head, she replied, "It's nothing. I was just wondering if Artemis Rain will choose my design."

"Don't worry," Maxwell reassured her, instinctively tightening his grip on her hand. "No matter what happens, as long as you've done your best, you won't have any regrets."

He had great confidence in Mona's design abilities and had already set things in motion to investigate who had dared to swap her design. Whoever was behind it would soon be uncovered. who