Romance With The CEO

Chapter19: Changes 1

Velia could barely hold back her drowsiness as the car finally came to a stop. She, who had almost fallen asleep, suddenly felt refreshed and turned her head. They had arrived at a towering building that appeared incredibly grand.

"Let's go," Lucas's voice coincided with the opening car door. They got out and quickly entered.

A security guard welcomed their arrival. He smiled and greeted them. Unfortunately, Lucas did not receive a similar response. The same went for the unassuming receptionist. In fact, the man only nodded briefly and continued walking towards the elevator.

The elevator carried Lucas and Velia away from the lobby. As they ascended floor after floor, the journey was enveloped in silence.

It did not take long for the elevator doors to open. Lucas and Velia arrived at their destination floor, and they walked along the corridor.

There was only one door on that floor. The sole place they were headed to, and Lucas said, "Remember this passcode, Ve."

Velia blinked, slightly confused, but reflexively remembered the sequence of numbers Lucas entered on the door lock.

The door opened. They entered, and the sight that greeted Velia made her stop in her tracks.

Velia's eyes wandered, observing her surroundings, and her growing curiosity manifested in her expression. "What is this, Luc?"

Lucas approached Velia. "What? What do you mean?"

Turning and looking at him, Velia explained her meaning. "This isn't a hotel."

Indeed, it was not a hotel as Velia had assumed when Lucas picked her up. Instead, it was a luxurious apartment that was their destination at that moment.

"Of course not."

Shaking his head faintly, Lucas closed the distance and stopped right in front of Velia. His hand reached out to grasp her waist.

Velia did not resist. She allowed her body to be pulled into Lucas's embrace.

"I don't want to go through the hassle of checking in every time I want to meet you. It's not efficient at all."

No, that did not answer Velia's confusion at all.

"Then?"

Lucas's hand moved again, briefly caressing the curve of Velia's waist.

"Initially, I thought I could come to your place and then go straight home. But..."

Lucas let out a long breath. He looked at Velia with a resigned gaze, slightly trembling.

"...your living conditions are so dreadful."

That was enough for Velia to understand. Therefore, it wasn't surprising that Lucas had made all the arrangements.

"So, I decided to give you this apartment."

Naturally, Lucas's words shocked Velia.

"What?"

Lucas grinned. Velia's astonishment caught his attention. His hand rose and gently stroked Velia's cheek, right where a blush appeared.

"I've already told you, Ve. We can't always go to a hotel, and I have no intention of visiting you in that rental place. So, this is the middle ground."

It sounded reasonable and logical; two traits associated with Lucas. However, Velia saw things differently.

Velia was not foolish. It was not difficult for her to guess that the apartment was not an affordable dwelling. Especially with everything inside it, her suspicions were undoubtedly correct.

Named The Grandiose Plaza, according to rumors, it was the most expensive apartment located in Ashford City. The Grandiose Plaza capitalized on its prime location in the center of economic activities. It was not only close to office buildings but also to shopping centers, businesses, and government institutions.

Regarding the facilities, The Grandiose Plaza was no joke. They clearly understood that the comfort and security of residents were of utmost importance. Therefore, everything was provided in a satisfying manner.

Private elevators, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, direct access to shopping centers, and 24-hour security systems were just a few of the available amenities. The priority was maintaining the residents's privacy, and it was well taken care of.

In terms of catering to consumer instincts, The Grandiose Plaza also offered spa treatments, restaurants, and refreshing gardens. Everything was meticulously arranged and attended to, guaranteeing a satisfying living experience.

"You can't be serious."

Velia's disbelief created a faint furrow on Lucas's forehead. He responded with a decisive question.

"Have I ever been unserious? When have I ever played around?"

Velia remained silent, acknowledging the valid answer. That was never.

"You're insane, Luc."

A tickling sensation formed at the corner of Lucas's lips. "Why insane? This is a sensible decision. Ah! I almost forgot to tell you. You don't have to live in that rental place anymore."

"So, you mean I'll live here?"

"Exactly," nodded Lucas. "So, what do you think of this place?"

Velia could not respond. Her tongue felt heavy, and it took her at least five seconds to speak. And even then, it was a question she posed, accompanied by a puzzled look in her eyes.

"Why are you doing this, Luc?"

Lucas gazed at Velia as he replied, "I'm doing it because I want to. Hmm, you don't think I did it because I still love you, right?"

It was not just Lucas's gaze, but the question itself succeeded in taking Velia's breath away. She froze. However, she did not freeze to the point where Lucas shook his head with a teasing expression.

"Of course not."

Velia's heart seemed to stop beating. The redness on her cheeks intensified. She seemed darkened by the shame she could not bear.

"I just want to take care of mine."

Satisfaction radiated from Lucas's eyes. It seemed arrogant, and he appeared pleased when he saw Velia's expression.

"Whether you like it or not, you now belong to me," Lucas said with a heavy voice. His finger played again, stroking Velia's cheek and running through her hair. "I always take care of everything I own. Preserve it as best as possible. Including you, Ve. Especially because you're not cheap."

It was not the first time Velia had been demeaned. At one point in the past, she had received a wad of money thrown right at her face. She had thought that was the most painful form of humiliation. Apparently, it was not.

"I understand what you mean."

Velia's body became rigid. Lucas grinned and seemed to enjoy it.

"Come on," Lucas invited, reaching out for Velia's hand. "You should see your new place."

Lucas led Velia around. They explored every room, and even though Velia did not like everything, she couldn't help but be amazed.

"I remember that you enjoy cooking."

It was the kitchen that truly captivated Velia. Undeniably, all the facilities there managed to widen her eyes.

Lucas knew that. He would never forget that Velia had a passion for cooking. That was why he instructed Vlora to prepare the kitchen as best as possible.

Velia would not be tempted by expensive vases or antique paintings there. Nor would she be impressed by the various crystals adorning the ceilings. But this room would surely capture her attention.

Whether consciously or not, Velia pulled away from Lucas. Her legs had a will of their own. She stepped forward and walked through the kitchen with an appraising gaze.

A four-door refrigerator, an electric oven, and a toaster-those were the three items that immediately caught Velia's eye. She continued to walk and satisfy her feminine instinct for various kitchen utensils. Complete, modern, and fulfilling every woman's desire.

Once again, satisfaction emanated from Lucas's eyes. But this time it was different from before. It was not about inflating his ego but rather about his self-worth as a man.

Lucas approached Velia. He embraced her from behind and whispered softly in her ear.

"I'm waiting for you to use all the equipment in this kitchen."

Velia was stunned. For a moment, she could not breathe. Lucas's words touched something inside her.

There was a glimpse of a memory. Involving chocolate cake and a slight rejection. However, a second later, it transformed into laughter full of happiness.

~

"I don't know if cooking is the right hobby or not. It seems that being with you makes me never feel hungry again."

"You know what? I love watching you eat. You always smile."

~

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