Chapter 47

Observing Naomi's retreating figure, Brendan's countenance darkened. He was keenly aware that this wasn't the Naomi he knew, and that something was weighing on her mind. An underlying tension lingered beneath her smiles and warmth.

When Naomi returned from the guest room, Brendan was already lounging on the bed after his shower. Pulling out a chair by the desk, she remarked, "I still have some case files to review. You should rest first."

Setting aside his book, Brendan scrutinized her and inquired, "So, you're not in the mood today?"

Despite six hours having passed since the afternoon, Naomi hadn't engaged in her usual banter. Normally, she would weave in playful remarks and tease him constantly. Anticipating her usual teasing, Brendan was surprised by her disclosure about the case files.

Naomi smirked and responded, "Who dwells on such matters daily? We have more pressing issues to address." Engrossed in the files, she paid minimal attention to him.

Without a word, Brendan left the bed and approached her. Gently pinching her face, he directed her gaze toward him. "Naomi, something's on your mind."

Having known her for twenty-three years, Brendan effortlessly interpreted her emotional state. Naomi seized his wrist and chuckled, "I'm cutting you some slack today. But you're missing my usual teasing, aren't you? Ladies have their days off, too, you know"

Before she could finish, Brendan held her face and lifted her from the chair. Naomi was caught off guard. After regaining her balance, she teased, "It seems like you're really in the mood for that and plan to force it?"

Brendan countered, "Naomi, stop being cryptic."

Amused by his statement, Naomi snorted. Just because she hadn't said much today, she had been accused of being cryptic. Meeting his determined gaze, she hissed, "Do I need to plead for your cooperation?"

Brendan's expression darkened, and he pinched her face again. She pushed his hand away and blurted, "I saw you this morning when I was out discussing work matters." With that brief statement, she avoided specifics.

Brendan swiftly understood; he knew she had seen him with Chloe and Caleb.

He relaxed his grip, and his aggression dissipated. He explained, "I owe her a favor. I mentioned that before."

Naomi retorted, "That's your business, Brendan. But I have the right to be upset, and the right not to feign a smile."

Dissatisfied with her response, Brendan asserted, "Naomi, you're being unreasonable."

Naomi was infuriated and forced a laugh. "Brendan, why do you think I will still fawn over you after seeing you with another woman? Do I owe you anything?"

She hadn't intended to argue or bring up the matter; she simply wished to avoid the discussion, but Brendan had persisted. At this point, it seemed her obligation to indulge and tease him.

However, Brendan coldly remarked, "Naomi, were you just playing with me all this while?"