Chapter 16

Before Lauren arrived, Charlie returned to his room to change his clothes.

When Daphne emerged from the kitchen with the desserts, she bumped into Charlie, who was wearing a pink shirt. The unexpected sight nearly caused her to drop the plate.

"OMG, this is so strange!" Daphne thought. Mr. Frank in a pink shirt! It was incredibly unusual. Although he still looked handsome, he was very different from his usual image.

Daphne quickly placed the desserts on the table and hurried away, returning to her room to discuss Charlie's unusual appearance with another Bennett family maid.

"He was wearing perfume, too," the other maid said.

Daphne's reaction was one of utter disbelief. Mr. Frank rarely behaved this way at home and never wore anything but dark suits.

When Lauren arrived at the Frank family gate, both Charlie and Leo came out to greet her.

Seeing Lauren, Leo immediately wanted to rush into her arms, but he couldn't break free from his father's grasp and could only stand there.

Lauren knew Leo's identity, but she hadn't expected Charlie to be home. While she wasn't deeply familiar with the business world, she'd seen Charlie's picture in newspapers and magazines. Some female colleagues at the laboratory often discussed him. The fact that such a busy man was home to spend time with his child impressed her favorably; she thought he must be a good man.

"Mr. Frank, it's a pleasure to meet you," Lauren said.

Charlie was surprised by her words and stared at her intently.

Lauren frowned, wanting to step back, but Leo ran toward her. Because Leo was still holding his father's hand, Charlie was pulled a few steps forward, bringing them very close. Lauren could smell his cologne.

She wanted to avoid Leo but feared hurting him, so she remained still, expecting Charlie to move. She remembered colleagues mentioning that Charlie was handsome and wealthy but rarely dated, leading to speculation about his sexuality. They believed he remained closeted due to concerns about his reputation and the Frank family's image. They even fantasized about him with various male celebrities. Lauren didn't usually concern herself with others' private lives, but she had a sharp memory.

However, Charlie didn't move; in fact, he drew even closer. He seemed unable to escape his four-year-old son's grip.

At such close proximity, Lauren could clearly see his face. He was undeniably handsome and striking.

"Miss Bennett," Charlie said in a low, seductive voice, "Have we met before? You look very familiar."

The proximity was overwhelming.