Revenge is best served cold

I was left speechless by Natasha's comment. I then gestured for her to elaborate.

It was then that Natasha gestured with her hand and said, "You see, people usually keep a three-feet distance between each other. You two were so close though, behaving just like newlyweds!"

I sighed helplessly and said, "It's because he injured his shoulder that I have to look after him."

Natasha pursed her lips and said, "Oh, his injury, huh? Are you seriously telling me that you really can't see his true intentions? I mean, he literally took a hit for you, and he's even helping you with your revenge plans. What kind of partner does that?

"In addition to that, every time you're in trouble, he's there to help you. And that look he gave you just now? If that's not love, I don't know what is."

I remained silent, yet I already knew the truth long before this. I wasn't so innocent when it came to love that I couldn't see the affection in Eric's gaze. I had noticed every act of kindness he had shown me, and with each one, my sense of guilt toward him only deepened.

"Have you heard a word I've been saying?" Natasha asked as she waved her hand in front of my face, looking rather annoyed.

I came back to my senses and smiled awkwardly as I said, "Of course, I was listening."

Natasha rolled her eyes and continued, "Oh, please. You totally see him as more than just a partner! You can't even look him in the eye!"

I sighed helplessly. It was no wonder Natasha was my best friend-I couldn't hide anything from her. I wasn't a person without feelings, so how could I possibly not fall for Eric after being with him for so long?

Yet every time I recalled how my life ended in tragedy in my previous lifetime, I couldn't bring myself to be honest with him. In the end, all I could do was run away from it.

Natasha, looking very expectant, continued, "You guys should just make it official! You're perfect for each other, and he's far superior to Jeremiah."

I smiled faintly and said, "It's not the right time yet."

I knew she only had my best interests at heart when I noticed how worried Natasha looked. I

couldn't tell her about my past lifeet

though, so I simply hugged her and added "You don't have to worry

about me, Natasha. If Eric and I do

end up together, I'll be sure to tell you first."

I had just turned around after seeing Natasha off when I noticed Eric leaning against the wall, silently watching me.

I was suddenly reminded of what Natasha had said earlier, and I couldn't help but feel embarrassed about it. I tried to speak, but words failed me.

"I'm beat," I said as I feigned a stretch. I then used this as an excuse to hurry off to my bedroom, my heart pounding in my chest.

I patted my flushed face and reminded myself, saying, "You ought to get a grip,

Jane! Your priority is to safeguard Brown Group and get your revenge. You have no time for romance!"

I collapsed on the bed, feeling drained as I stared at the ceiling. I had been able to maintain my composure in front of Eric before this, but Natasha's insights stirred a storm within me. I couldn't help but feel my heart race every time I saw him. It was all Natasha's fault!

I should have just pretended to be clueless and let her nag at me a little. Alas, itnoveldrama

was all too late now.

I let out a deep sigh and spent the night mentally repeating the words, "Lust

brings trouble" before eventually succumbing to sleep.

I woke up the following day and decided to distance myself from Eric until I regained emotional control. I decided that my personal mantra for the moment was "A retreat doesn't mean defeat".