Dexter had an engagement at noon, at a shooting range. When Juliette arrived, he had just finished his round.
Josie followed closely behind Juliette. Lifting her gaze, she saw that he had hit the bullseye.
She knew that Dexter was also a master archer. However, that day’s social engagement required him to showcase these skills, sending a clear message that he was not someone to be trifled with.
“Dexter!”
Juliette was observant. After a few rounds of drinks, she waited until the conversation at the table had mostly subsided before she approached.
Dressed in a business suit, Dexter presented an impressive figure. He squinted his eyes, looking back over his shoulder.
Juliette greeted everyone with a smile before apologizing, “I’m sorry for the interruption at such a joyous time. I wouldn’t have bothered if I wasn’t genuinely concerned about Dexter’s health. Please forgive me. I’ll punish myself with three drinks.”
Her words flowed effortlessly, leaving no room for criticism.
The business owners present scrutinized Dexter’s expression, and upon confirming that he indeed knew Juliette, they quickly gestured for the waiter to add more seats.
Feeling the intense gaze on her, Josie wished she could dig a hole and disappear.
Juliette had also noticed Dexter’s gaze lingering on Josie. She then gulped before introducing Josie’s identity.
“Dexter, your reputation precedes you. Alice has always spoken highly of you. I hope you’ll look out for us in the future.”
The words spoken on the scene made Josie grit her teeth in frustration. She looked up to meet Dexter’s leisurely gaze. Teasingly, he asked, “Has she spoken highly of me?”
He was on the verge of bursting into laughter.
Josie, fearful of being exposed, ultimately held back. She reached out her hand and said, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Russell. It’s an honor.”
“Alice, I’ve heard about you. It’s an even greater honor for me to meet you.” Dexter’s voice resonated with profound meaning as he lightly clasped her hand.
On the surface, it was imperceptible. Only Josie could feel it. When he pulled back his hand, he gave hers a firm squeeze. Jerk! Pervert! Creep!
The waiter had already brought the wine, and Juliette was about to pour it when Dexter stopped her. “There’s no need for drinks. What did you bring?”
Everyone observed and sensed a deep bond between the two. Once the meal was over, they knew when to take their leave, providing the pair with some much-needed privacy.
Once the others had left, Juliette chuckled softly, lowering her head to open the food container. “Did you forget? I mentioned before that I would deliver your daily herbal tonics. If you eat as instructed, your health will certainly improve.”
In a space shared by three people, Josie was idly fiddling with the corner of her clothes, clearly bored.
“I’ve already spoken to your assistant. There’s no need for further deliveries,” he said.
“I understand,” Juliette said as she took out the food. “Given your discerning palate, I figured the initial dish might not be to your liking. So, I’ve specially prepared another one for you. Give it a try.”
It was a bowl of soup. Juliette scooped up a spoonful and brought it to Dexter’s lips, her expression playful. “I’ve added lotus seeds, ginseng, and rosemary to it. It’s sweet and delicious, all the ingredients are good for the heart. Want to give it a try?”
Even though Dexter was smiling, the somberness in his eyes didn’t lessen, making it hard to discern his emotions.
“I’m not at death’s door yet. You’re going overboard with these supplements.” He quietly pushed the spoon away, his gaze lingering on Josie in his peripheral vision.
“What do you mean? The doctor has already told you that your body needs rest. It’s best to use some nourishing medicinal herbs regularly. Have you forgotten the time before the New Year when you were so breathless that you almost fainted and no one noticed?”
The moment the latter half of the sentence was spoken, a sharp glint flashed in Dexter’s eyes. Without hesitation, he turned his gaze toward Josie. The latter furrowed her brows, looking at him with an expression that was both harmless and puzzled.
“I’m alive, aren’t I?” His tone became indifferent..
“So, you must take good care of yourself. Come on, drink up,” Juliette said, almost in a playful, flirtatious tone.
