Chapter 33: No Chance

To avoid being exposed, Christopher used his acting skills, enhancing his charisma by immediately suggesting a game and supper session with two male researchers. Luna refused and returned to her room alone. The others exchanged glances. Everyone knew Christopher was merely seeking an excuse to spend time with Luna.

With the main characters gone, the others planned to return to their rooms. Unexpectedly, Christopher genuinely intended to treat everyone to supper. The three researchers were surprised and initially wanted to politely decline.

Christopher said, “I should have treated you all to a meal long ago.” He hadn't fulfilled his obligations to his former fiancée, and now, belatedly, wanted to treat her friend to a meal after their engagement ended. Isabella, having nowhere else to go, couldn't help but sarcastically comment, following their lead. Christopher's smile faltered.

The three researchers also felt awkward. Luna's return to her room showed she didn't want to be personally involved with Christopher. Although they thought they were well-suited, they didn't want Luna to feel pressured or angry. They could be kind, but they wouldn't guilt-trip anyone.

Seeing their hesitation, Christopher quickly changed the subject. “Actually, I wanted to get to know your team members better, so I can invest wisely and pay attention to details in the future.” Even though it was likely an excuse, after it was said, further refusal would risk offending their benefactor. Thus, everyone went to the researchers' room for supper.

Christopher ordered a lavish feast, instantly dispelling any sense of distance. He even agreed to autographs and photos. Even if they weren't fans, he was a top star, and posting about it would garner many social media likes.

Soon, Christopher contacted Hayden to arrange two rooms on that floor, cleverly choosing one directly opposite Luna's. Hayden and Thalia arrived, smoothly covering up the lie. However, after a private chat with Christopher, Hayden revealed the issue was with Bianca. Christopher clearly wanted nothing more to do with her or her news. With Christopher's attitude, Hayden cut off all resources previously provided to Bianca.

Meanwhile, Isabella and Thalia enjoyed barbecued skewers. Christopher approached them and whispered, "Later, accompany me to deliver food to Luna."

Isabella, who had never considered helping to match Christopher and Luna, declined.

Christopher gritted his teeth. "I just transferred a million."

Isabella responded firmly, "A deal's a deal. This is a separate price."

Christopher stared incredulously at this principled (avaricious) person who had just taken his money. She had recently conned him, yet felt no guilt? He had no choice but to transfer more money.

He muttered, "If this continues, I'll have a conditioned reflex."

Isabella smiled and accepted the money. She thought, "As expected, he's turning over a new leaf! But is he stupid? Anyone else could be a better buffer for him. But no, he chose me. Isn't this treating me to front-row seats? I've never encountered such a spendthrift invitation. Haha, my opinion of Chris is truly improving."

Christopher heard her inner voice and felt numb. He wondered why he chose Isabella. Could it be her family? The thought sent chills down his spine. He decided, at least someone would accompany him.

He selected some food for Luna. Isabella suggested, "The eggplant is well-grilled."

"She doesn't eat eggplant," Christopher replied.

Isabella was surprised. "You still remember her preferences?"

"Yeah," Christopher responded nonchalantly. Isabella was surprised; he had previously been so distant from Luna that she thought he only remembered things related to Bianca.

They arrived at Luna's door and knocked. Luna's cold voice came from inside: "Who is it?"

Christopher replied, "It's me and Bella. We brought you some supper."

There was a pause. Luna was hesitant, then opened the door. As soon as she did, she looked at Isabella and her tone warmed. "Thank you, but I don't eat supper, so please don't waste it." She clearly had no intention of inviting them in.

Isabella understood Luna was defensive. Before Christopher could become anxious, Luna said, "By the way, Isabella"

Isabella was stunned by Luna's more intimate tone. Luna said seriously, "Thank you for what you did concerning Anais. I will remember your help. If there is anything I can do for you in the future, please don't hesitate to ask." Luna smiled sincerely. She had long wanted to thank Isabella but hadn't had the chance until now.

Isabella waved her hand. "It's nothing. You were lucky to see their true colors. Otherwise, sooner or later, Zeke would have targeted you."

Luna frowned, sensing something similar. "I originally pitied her, but I was wrong."

"As the saying goes, 'Behind every pitiful person there must be their hateful deeds'," Isabella lamented.

Christopher gritted his teeth. "People like Anais are simply bad and stupid. They wasted your kindness. You didn't do anything wrong."

"She did make a mistake," Isabella said, nibbling on a skewer.

"Hey!" Christopher exclaimed.

Luna looked at Isabella.

Isabella continued, "When you first advised her to break up and she got back together, you should have realized she's not the type to listen to advice. You should permanently avoid getting involved in her emotional issues. Some people need guidance, but some don't. She only needs emotional venting and confirmation. When you encounter such people, you should give up on playing the rescuer and respect others' destinies. Otherwise, sooner or later, you'll suffer because of someone else's actions."

Luna nodded. "You're right. What you're saying makes sense."

Christopher was surprised and even admired Isabella's transformation. He wondered if she was enlightened, but decided that a truly enlightened person wouldn't be so greedy.

Isabella grinned. "Just like me, I generally don't advise breaking up or getting back together!"

Luna smiled. "Yes, I should learn from you."

Isabella waved goodbye and left.

Luna murmured, "If there's nothing else, I need to rest," and started to close the door.

"Wait!" Christopher reached out, his hand getting caught in the door. Luna quickly released the handle, but Christopher blocked the door.

"Luna, I need to talk to you!" Christopher's tone was urgent. Luna felt suffocated by his intense gaze. She met his gaze with icy indifference, making him uneasy, yet he refused to back down.

Isabella's thoughts echoed: "Oh, persistent tactics won't work on Luna. How clueless."

Christopher was taken aback. He saw that the neighboring room's door was ajar, with several shadows visible. A group of people were eavesdropping.

Christopher's face turned red. He was used to being respected, and this situation was embarrassing. But he had to act shamelessly because he couldn't miss this opportunity.

Isabella's thoughts echoed again: "Oh, I bet this won't work." Then, "No, I haven't started yet!"

A voice concluded: Just having a humble attitude isn't enough. Luna is waiting for Christopher to say the right things and end everything completely. If he messes this up, Christopher is done for.

Christopher turned pale, looking at Luna's icy expression. He'd anticipated it wouldn't be easy, but he hadn't expected it to be almost hopeless. It felt like a death row inmate's final plea. He was so nervous his throat tightened, but he still owed Luna three sentences.