Ashley instinctively tried to push Arthur away. Help! The way he was pouncing on her like a bandit spotting a defenseless village girl—where was the cold and aloof Arthur from earlier? The strength difference between men and women was undeniable. No matter how hard Ashley struggled, she couldn’t escape Arthur’s grasp. Her mind raced, desperately searching for something to say that might save her. But before she could even form a thought, Arthur’s hands had already started roaming. In the end, she never managed to get a word out—only a soft, helpless whimper that made Arthur’s blood boil. Even though he was acting like a ravenous beast, he still held back at the most crucial moments, making sure she was comfortable. After being apart for so long, Arthur realized—Ashley’s body had become even softer, her curves even more enticing. He had been holding back ever since he walked into the hotel room. But it was impossible to resist. He had planned to let her rest tonight. He really had. But Ashley was just too adorable. One little tease and her whole face turned red. How could he possibly hold back? Soon, the room was filled with warmth, soft gasps, and murmured affections. Unlike in the dorm, where she had to suppress herself, the hotel’s excellent soundproofing meant Ashley no longer had to hold back. Her sweet voice only made Arthur even more eager, more determined. And so, the night passed. … By the time the sun was high in the sky, most people were avoiding the scorching streets, seeking shelter under rooftops and trees. Inside the hotel room—Arthur groggily opened his eyes. The first thing he saw was Ashley’s peaceful, sleeping face. Her eyes, usually bright and expressive, were closed in deep slumber. Her long lashes cast tiny shadows over her cheeks, making her look even more delicate. Her nose was small and well-shaped, and her soft pink lips were slightly parted. Arthur had always thought Ashley’s lips were too tempting. Her fair skin was smooth, almost impossibly soft, like the skin of a newborn baby. Tiny, almost invisible fine hairs covered her cheeks. Last night had clearly tired her out. She was still fast asleep, her face tinged with a faint rosy hue. Whatever she was dreaming about must have been pleasant—she would occasionally smile in her sleep. The longer Arthur looked, the more his heart melted. Unable to resist, he leaned down and kissed her lightly on the cheek. Ashley, still in her dreams, felt a ticklish sensation and instinctively swatted her hand out. Smack! Arthur was speechless. Well, that was unexpected. Just as he was rubbing his cheek in surprise, his phone vibrated. It was an unknown number. Frowning slightly, he lowered the volume to avoid waking Ashley before stepping quietly away from the bed. Once he was a safe distance away, he pressed the answer button. A deep, familiar voice came through the receiver. "Arthur, I’ve done as you asked. Now, where’s the information on Lynn?" Arthur’s gaze darkened.… One day ago. After ending the video call with Ashley, Arthur had felt uneasy. He knew she was hiding something from him. She had tried to act normal, but he had seen the sadness in her eyes. He had learned long ago—if he remained passive, if he kept running, Solivair would never leave him alone. If he didn’t take action now, sooner or later, Solivair would target the people he cared about. Ashley. The Yan family. Taylor. Everyone who had ever genuinely cared for him. They were his weakness. And Solivair was the kind of person who had no regard for laws or morals. The only way to truly be free of him—was to face him head-on. Making up his mind, Arthur deliberately exposed himself in one of Solivair’s surveillance zones. Sure enough, it wasn’t long before he noticed someone following him. Plainclothes, light-footed, highly trained. Arthur immediately recognized him as one of Solivair’s men. Without saying a word, he followed the man, allowing himself to be led away. Eventually, they arrived at an expensive-looking villa. Arthur stepped out of the car under the watchful eyes of Solivair’s men. Walking alone into Solivair’s territory— It was like stepping into a lion’s den. But Arthur had no choice. He had too much to protect. The grand entrance doors opened.Solivair stood with his back turned, as if he had been expecting him all along. The guards escorting Arthur stepped aside. Slowly, Solivair turned around, eyes flickering with something close to amusement. He looked Arthur up and down before speaking. "Not bad. You’ve got guts, kid. Walking in here alone… not everyone would be that bold."