Never Forgive Never Forget (Celeste and Philip) novel Chapter 158

A sharp glint flashed in Viola's eyes. She hadn't even dealt with Celeste yet, and now there was another vixen in her way?

Suppressing the jealousy and resentment swirling inside her, she schooled her features into sweet innocence and sidled closer.

"Philip, she's so elegant! Is this lady one of those top executives the headhunters brought in for you?"

"No."

Philip handed her the folder without hesitation. "She's a violinist with the Luna Symphony. Her performance at the last concert was outstanding. If you have her as your private tutor, your playing will improve by leaps and bounds."

Viola blinked in surprise.

Then, a wave of ecstasy swept her away.

So Philip was paving the way for her!

In her mind's eye, she was already a member of Luna, basking in fame and glory, and finally marrying Philip with everyone's blessing.

Unable to contain her excitement, Viola flung herself into Philip's arms, stood on tiptoe, and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

"Philip, I knew you cared about me—"

"You're out of line."

Philip's expression iced over as he pushed her away. He scrubbed at the spot she'd kissed, his hand moving with deliberate harshness. Catching the flicker of hurt on Viola's face, he forced himself to stop mid-motion. "I know you're happy, but don't do things that can be misunderstood."

With that, he turned and strode back to his room, not sparing her a single glance.

Viola dropped onto the sofa, fists clenched, unwilling to accept it.

Out of line? How?

Philip had done so much for her—what was so wrong with showing her gratitude, with a kiss?

Eyes burning, Viola's frustration only grew stronger.

……

It was nearly dawn when Celeste finally pulled into her apartment's parking lot.

She knew Janice could get lost in her work for hours, but she hadn't expected her to be so fixated on those antique ceramics from her mother. When Celeste left, Janice was still bent over her research, dark circles under her eyes, engrossed in her task.

She asked him a few questions about his business trip. Alfred answered each one, but didn't pry into who she'd been with or what she'd done.

When the elevator reached the penthouse, Celeste stepped out and unlocked her door.

"I'm home," she said.

"Get some sleep. Goodnight."

His voice softened, so gentle it was as though he was afraid of disturbing her.

Then the line went dead, leaving only the dial tone.

Celeste pushed open the door; the apartment was empty, darkness spilling in from every corner.

But she didn't feel the slightest trace of fear or loneliness.

Even when Alfred wasn't there, she knew she was safe.

He really was the most reliable ally she could ask for.