Chapter 103: Where Are We Headed Today?

Hayley’s POV: +8 Pearls

I couldn’t help but scowl in irritation. Benjamin had been informed that the local fruit wine could be quite strong, yet he had indulged anyway. Now, faced with his current condition, I couldn’t simply leave him to fend for himself. However, the recollection of the last incident sent a chill down my spine.

Upon our return to the hotel, I approached the staff and discreetly handed them a bundle of cash. “Could you please ensure he makes it to his room safely?” The employees exchanged glances at the money, and without hesitation, they quickly summoned a colleague to assist Benjamin.

The following morning, as I stepped out of my room, I nearly collided with Benjamin. He had already regained his usual charm. I greeted him casually with a cheerful, “Good morning, Mr. Benjamin.” His eyes lingered on me for a moment before he finally responded, “Morning.”

We both entered the elevator, and as soon as the doors slid shut, Benjamin broke the silence. “Selena, I appreciate you bringing me back last night.” He pulled a signed check from his pocket and handed it to me. “Here’s your payment.”

I glanced down at the check—it was a whopping 200 thousand dollars! I couldn’t help but think how incredibly wealthy he must be! But I hadn’t earned such a generous sum, so I politely refused. “There’s no need for that, Mr. Benjamin. It was just a small favor.”

His expression darkened at my refusal, and his tone turned frosty. “I dislike being turned down. Also, I’d prefer if last night’s events stayed between us.” His authoritative tone as an Alpha compelled me to comply. I reluctantly accepted the check, surprised that I had never noticed how much he liked to issue checks.

“Well, thank you, Mr. Benjamin. And I assure you, I won’t mention a word about last night.” He responded with a soft hum as the elevator doors opened, and I graciously allowed him to exit first.

The day was packed with meetings between Benjamin and local government officials, stretching until 7:00 PM when we finally wrapped things up. I stretched, feeling the fatigue settle over me; after work, I headed back to the hotel. A quick shower later, I collapsed into bed and fell asleep almost instantly.

This hectic schedule continued for an entire week until both parties officially finalized the partnership. With the contracts signed, my role came to an end.

“Mr. Benjamin, should we book tickets back home for tomorrow?” I couldn’t hide my eagerness to return. But Benjamin responded, “Let’s stay a couple more days. I’d like you to accompany me to a place…”

I quickly suggested, “Mr. Benjamin, now that our work is complete, why don’t I head back first? You can enjoy a few extra days here.”

He halted and cast a sidelong glance at me. “With a language barrier, I don’t think I’ll be able to enjoy myself.” I fell silent, realizing he finally recognized my worth!

After a moment’s thought, I added, “If I’m staying an extra couple of days, I think that warrants some overtime pay.”

Benjamin regarded me with a raised brow. “Are you running low on cash?” I nodded without hesitation; my charitable efforts required quite a bit of investment!

“Then I’ll pay you for overtime, based on an hourly rate,” he replied.

“Sounds good, Mr. Benjamin!” I exclaimed, genuinely pleased.

I woke up early the next day, but Benjamin didn’t reach out until noon. As soon as I saw him, I couldn’t resist asking, “Mr. Benjamin, you mentioned wanting to go out, didn’t you? Why are you only contacting me now?” I felt that he was wasting my time and causing me to lose money as I was charging by the hour!

Of course, I kept that thought to myself, but Benjamin seemed to pick up on my annoyance. “I’ll save some money from the hours I don’t require your services.”

I was utterly shocked. What a merciless businessman! Despite my internal complaints, I forced a bright smile and asked, “So, Mr. Benjamin, where are we headed today?”

Without a word, Benjamin led me to a taxi, handed the driver an address from his phone, and we were off. When we arrived, I was taken aback! Mornant was renowned for its oil production, and rock betting was a local pastime, but I never imagined Benjamin would bring me to a rock betting venue….