Chapter 24: By This Standard

Nathael instinctively wrapped his large hand around Maggie's slender waist as she took a step back. Their height difference, coupled with his inability to anticipate her reaction, caused them both to stumble and fall to the ground. Nathael silently protected her as she landed on top of him, seemingly unhurt.

The faint, pleasant scent of cedar—a stark contrast to Joseph's refined cologne—filled the air. It smelled as fresh and clean as the air after a mountain rain. Half-kneeling on his leg, her hands still wrapped around his neck, Maggie lingered over their brief kiss.

Blinking her clear, round eyes, she parted her rosy lips slightly and whispered, "Make it up to me." She had never initiated a kiss before. Although she had grown up with Joseph, Nathael was the only person she had ever felt close to.

Her face flushed, her heart pounded wildly. She looked like a ripe apple.

Nathael lowered his gaze, his Adam's apple bobbing slightly. Concealing the desire in his eyes, he chuckled. "Ms. Adam, I'm not that desperate."

Maggie pouted, displeased. This was her first time taking the initiative.

"Mr. Harris, you won't get a girlfriend if you behave like this."

Nathael narrowed his eyes and laughed. "You sure have a lot of concerns."

Embarrassed, Maggie huffed, got up, and turned away with a cold face. "Whatever."

Sensing her intention, Nathael tightened his hand on her waist, preventing her from moving. Maggie felt the heat and strength of his palm, his firm grip holding her against him. Kneeling on him, she could feel his muscular thighs through the thin fabric. Nathael's pupils were as dark as an unfathomable abyss.

"Maggie, since you want to play, I'll play with you!"

His deep, husky voice echoed in her ear like a warm current. Maggie involuntarily tensed. Before she could process his words, he flipped her over, pinning her beneath him, and forcefully kissed her. Stunned for a few seconds, she then felt his palm protecting the back of her head.

An overwhelming, fiery kiss ensued, leaving her body stiff. She never imagined a light peck would escalate so rapidly. The deepest part of his pupils concealed his wildest desire.

Maggie's throat was dry, her cheeks burning. Perhaps instinctively, or perhaps unsure how to react, she obediently closed her eyes. Immediately, she regretted it. Without her sight, her other senses heightened. Her eyelashes trembled as she felt her tongue entwined with his, her body becoming incredibly sensitive under his touch. Maggie went limp, her mind in a daze.

"Maggie! Open the door! Open the door, I'll leave as soon as I see you!" Joseph's repeated knocks sounded more like banging.

The noise jolted Maggie back to reality. She blinked, her tearful eyes filled with desire, making her appear irresistible.

She spoke softly, trying to push him away, but her voice was hoarse.

"Don't move," Nathael said, burying his face in her neck.

Maggie swallowed, sensing something. She dared not move.

"Maggie, is there a man in there? I'll call the police and break down this door!" Joseph's surprise at her unexpected resistance was palpable.

"Nathael," Maggie murmured.

"Hmm," Nathael hummed in response.

Lacking experience, Maggie feared making things worse, so she remained still, helplessly asking, "Are you feeling better now?" Nathael pursed his lips and looked up at her.

She saw the veins on his forehead and the thin layer of sweat, making her feel guilty, like she'd flirted with him and then run away.

After a while, Nathael stood up. "I'm going to take a shower."

"Oh" Maggie, unsure what to do, quickly got up.

More knocking. The person outside was persistent.

Maggie hesitated, looking at Nathael uncertainly.

Nathael curled his lips into a smirk. "Next time, you should compensate me with a meal."

His face was stern, but the lifted corners of his eyes hinted at mischief, making him seem unrestrained and wild.

Stunned, Maggie understood. The swelling and burning on her lips intensified; her cheeks flushed again. She hurried to the kitchen, knowing Nathael wouldn't confront Joseph. He'd accepted her compensation—and her unexpected conditions. What a ridiculous condition it was!

Her legs were weak, her head dizzy and muddled. But the most noticeable was her mouth—the intense swelling and burning made it almost unrecognizable.

Ignoring Joseph's clamor, Nathael went to the floor-to-ceiling window and lit a cigarette.

"Mr. Harris."

Nathael took his time, lighting the cigarette. Only after the pale smoke curled upwards did he speak, his voice deep. "Cause some trouble for Soleil Group."

"Understood," Alex replied immediately.

After ending the call, Nathael stood on the balcony, smoking, suppressing his desire. After finishing his cigarette, he entered the bathroom.

Minutes later, as Joseph prepared to call building management, he received a call from Ronald.

"Joseph, where are you? Soleil Group has been attacked. You need to handle it immediately."

Stunned, Joseph sensed something was wrong. He had no time to ponder, swiftly leaving.

Most companies had hidden issues. Some were fatal; others were minor. But this attack was unannounced—an ominous sign.

Before getting in his car, Joseph glanced at Maggie's house. He texted her: Think about whether you want to be with me. Come find me when you've made your decision!