The Queen's Back

Without hesitation, Mona rushed into Maxwell's arms, tightly wrapping her arms around his waist and burying her head in his chest. Im so glad you're back."

Maxwell instinctively embraced her slender waist, holding her close. "Yeah, I'm back."

They said nothing, simply holding each other tightly as if they were the only two people in the world. After a long while, Mona released Maxwell and asked, "Maxwell, is that guy Okay!" Though she didn't mention his name, they both knew she was talking about Gordon.

"He's fine. He just passed out, and when I went to see him this morning, he was already awake," Maxwell replied, omitting the fact that he had injured Gordon's arms. That was something Mona didn't need to know. As long as Mona was happy, that was enough for him.

"That's good to hear, Mona sighed in relief. After hitting Gordon yesterday and seeing him collapse with blood on her hands, Mona had been incredibly scared.

"I'm sorry Itouldn't protect you," Maxwell said earnestly, gazing into her eyes.

Mona looked up, meeting his burning eyes, and felt warm. Sniffing, she replied, "It's not your fault. You don't need to apologize. Things just happened unexpectedly."

Having lived another life, Mona understood that one should never have ill intentions, but always be cautious of others. Though Gordon often talked big, she never expected him to try to take advantage of her.

Maxwell's eyes returned to Mona's face. After a night of rest, the red marks on her face had faded significantly, but there were still some remnants.

He felt distressed, wishing he could take that slap for her. He also scolded himself for not going to find her immediately after receiving her messages.

Noticing the intensity in Maxwell's gaze, Mona touched her check and forced a smile. "It doesn't hurt anymore. Thank you for the medicine you gave me yesterday."

"It's what I should do," Maxwell replied. Suddenly remembering something, he added, "By the way, I had Nigel send over the roses you wanted. If you need anything else, just let me know."

He was genuinely worried about her safety.

As soon as Mona heard Maxwell's words, her anxiety was replaced by urgency. "Yeah, I don't even know how to thank you enough."

He nearly blurted out, "Then repay me with yourself!" but managed to swallow it down. "No need to thank me. We re husband and wife. It's my duty," Maxwell said.

After breakfast, Mona hurriedly asked Maxwell to drive her to The Designscape.

Now, when facing Maxwell, Mona had no reservations. After all, it was just asking for a ride, and she could say it outright without any hesitation.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

"Don't you need to rest at home for a while?" Maxwell asked, concerned. He remembered how she clutched his shirt tightly in fear the night before.

As Mona walked toward the door, she said, "No need, it's just seven days. Oh, no, six days now. I really need to hurry. Time is running tight. By the way, you don't need to pick me up tonight I'll probably be back really late, and if things get busy, I 08:20 Wed, Oct

might not come home at all

When he heard her last words "might not come home", Maxwell's gaze turned melancholic. Ever since they got their marriage license, they hadn't spent a night apart. He'd gotten used to holding Mona as he slept, breathing in her light fragrance to help him fall asleep, though she wasn't aware of it. But now, if she wasn't with him, Maxwell couldn't possibly sleep well.

"What's wrong?" Mona asked as she settled into the passenger seat, catching the somewhat pitiful look in Maxwell's eyes. She felt as though she'd done something terribly wrong

Starting the car, Maxwell said, "Nothing. If possible, come back to sleep tonight. Just send me a message, and I'll pick your

1. up.

Mona nodded. "Okay"

While on the way, Maxwell thought it over and eventually said to Mona, "Mona, you should keep an eye on Vespera."

ason. "Why?"

Mona sensed that Maxwell wouldn't say something like that without a reason. "W

"When you suggested making the dress again yesterday, I noticed she hesitated for a moment and looked a bit uncomfortable. I have a feeling the fire might be related to her, but I have no proof. I just wanted to mention it to you." Maxwell sari. Mona nodded. "I'll be cautious."

When she first heard about the fire, she had thought Barbara was behind it. But upon arriving at the scene and hearing the police, Mona believed it was an accident. Now, with Maxwell warning her about Vespera, she made a mental note. After dropping Mona off at The Designscape, Maxwell watched her walk inside before driving off to the Carter Group.

Once inside, Mona saw Elara and Vespera working on the dresses. Vespera was particularly focused. If Maxwell hadn't pointed her out, Mona would never have paid attention to her.

"Mona, there you are! I've calculated the time, and if we push ourselves, there's still a good chance we can finish the gown," Elara said excitedly as soon as she saw Mona. But it was clear that the three of them would have to pull a few all-nighters. Thinking about having a chance to make up for their mistakes filled Elara with joy and motivation.

Mona nodded. "Let's all work hard. Once everything's settled, I'll treat everyone to a feast."

As she spoke, she noticed Vespera's expression. Vespera's eyes briefly flickered downward, and her lips almost curled, but she only managed a forced smile when she heard Elara cheer.

Mona, observed this closely. If Maxwell hadn't mentioned it first, she wouldn't have noticed such subtle expressions. Now, seeing this, she had a growing suspicion that the fire incident might indeed be connected to Vespera. However, she kept her thoughts to herself.

The three of them busied themselves throughout the morning By noon, they felt going out would waste time, so they ordered takeout and continued working in the afternoon.

At eight in the evening, when Maxwell still hadn't received a message from Mona, he couldn't help but send a message. [Did you finish your tasks for today?]