Chapter 152

Ron’s words, “No, no, he doesn’t care about being loved by everyone. He only wants the people he loves to love him back,” echoed in my mind as I left the office. My curiosity about the mysterious CEO was intensifying. What did he look like? What kind of person was he? The complete lack of information in the company files was unsettling. Was he hiding something? Or was he, like a billionaire romance hero, fiercely private, deliberately avoiding the public eye?

These questions swirled as I drove to Inkwell Atelier. By the time I arrived, the enigma of the CEO remained unsolved. I parked but didn't immediately exit, instead calling Hayden. Unsurprisingly, he didn't answer, so I texted: "Can you come with me to the Johnston residence tonight? Is that cool for you?" Doubtful of a quick reply, I stowed my phone and entered the shop.

“Ms. Kay, great to see you!” Mr. Parker, the owner, greeted me warmly. I’d been a regular customer for years, annually ordering a custom set of hand-lettering supplies—a costly but worthwhile indulgence. In Kehlmark, hand lettering was considered a refined art form, especially among the upper class. Matthew loved it, using copious amounts of ink and brushes, making this a reliable gift.

“Mr. Parker, do you have any new premium sets this year?” I asked, initiating our usual small talk as I perused the shelves.

“Of course! But don’t waste your time with those; you won’t like them. The best ones are over here,” he said, gesturing.

Despite his assurance, I browsed habitually before following him. There, a stunning emerald green set captivated me. “Let me check this one out.”

“Sure!” Mr. Parker carefully lifted it. “This is the latest release; it just arrived.” His compliment was subtly delivered.

The craftsmanship was impeccable; the materials precisely what I envisioned. Without hesitation, I declared, “I’ll take this one, Mr. Parker.”

Instead of his usual easygoing response, he paused, a troubled expression crossing his face. “Ms. Kay… this set has already been reserved.”

Ah, of course. Only one existed. A flicker of disappointment passed, quickly dismissed. Life, after all, is full of unrequited desires and fleeting opportunities. Even kings, I mused, likely yearned for more time.

Accepting this, I replaced the set. Footsteps sounded at the entrance.

“Take your time. I’ll attend to the other customer,” Mr. Parker said.

“Sure,” I replied, but saw him take the emerald set toward the door. I tried to focus on other options, when Tanya’s voice cut through my concentration. “Mr. Parker, has my order arrived yet?”

I watched as Mr. Parker handed Tanya the emerald green set—the one I wanted. Tanya had reserved it? I was completely surprised.