Chapter 351 Satisfy You
Panic flooded Claude’s eyes as he struggled to find his words.
Ryland watched him, his expression a mix of confusion and scrutiny.
“Why- why did you come down?” Claude managed to say, his voice artificially calm.
Ryland didn’t respond directly. Instead, he moved closer and asked in a soft yet firm tone, “Who were you talking to on the phone? What do you mean by ‘you’re even’?”
“It’s nothing, just some work-related matters,” Claude replied with a forced smile.
Ryland’s frown deepened.
He couldn’t see what work could possibly require a discussion at such an early hour. Given Claude’s previous conversation, Ryland sensed there was more to the story.
“I’m not a child, Claude,” Ryland said, his voice tinged with irritation.
Claude felt a sinking feeling; he knew managing Ryland’s temper would be challenging. He gripped his phone tighter, searching for any sign of softening in Ryland’s stern look,
but found none.
Attempting reconciliation, Claude stood and approached Ryland with open arms, but Ryland stepped back, avoiding the embrace.
“Ryland-” Claude began, only to be cut off.
“Don’t try to lie to me, Claude.” Ryland’s tone was icy. “Unless this matter involves me!”
Claude was taken aback.
Ryland, who had been merely speculating, now stared at Claude accusingly. “Does it really involve me?!”
“No!” Claude responded immediately, a bit too quickly.
Ryland’s keen perception was not easily misled.
Claude sighed deeply, loosening his grip on his phone. He spoke earnestly. “Ryland, can we just let this go? Can you trust me this once? I’m really doing this for our sake.”
Ryland remained silent, pondering
“I don’t want you to get involved in this,” Claude added.
Ryland’s expression grew more serious. He paused, and then asked, “Is it something illegal, like murder?”
Claude responded, “No. It might be a bit unethical, and it might disappoint you. That’s why I’d rather you not know.”
Ryland scoffed lightly, “My expectations of you are already quite low.”
Claude gave a soft chuckle, gently tapping Ryland’s forehead, and teased, “Why are you up? Couldn’t sleep without me?”
Ryland retorted with a pout, “Don’t flatter yourself. I was thirsty and came down for
water.”
Claude grinned and offered, “Then sit down, I’ll get you water. Do you want it hot or
cold?”
Ryland lounged on the sofa and declared, “I want 56-degree warm water.”
“All right! I’ll satisfy you,” Claude responded warmly at the sight of Ryland’s smug
smile.
However, as Claude turned away, Ryland’s smile vanished, his gaze turning icy as he
watched Claude leave.
Returning with the water, Claude greeted him with a gentle smile. “Here, 56-degree warm water. See if it’s to your liking.”
Ryland took the cup, his expression lightening into a playful smile. “Thanks for the hard work, Mr. Perez!”
Claude replied jokingly, “No trouble at all. Just make sure to tip me.”
“Tip you?” Ryland acted surprised. “I thought I already did last night!”
Claude took the cup from Ryland and set it down, and then playfully scooped him into his arms, quipping, “Last night’s last night, and now is now!”
