Chapter 232

Grace subconsciously raised her hand to push him away. He caught her right hand; she immediately raised her left. As his fingers closed around her left hand, she gasped, crying out, "It hurts!" The cry only deepened his kiss.

The kiss left her breathless. Finally, he released her hands. Her legs went limp, and she nearly fell from the chair. He steadied her, supporting her waist with one hand and gently lifting her injured left hand with the other. "Did I hurt you, Sis?"

Grace bit her lip and glared. "Why did you do that?"

He smiled softly, appearing gentle. "Because I don't like hearing things I don't want to hear. I don't mind kissing you again if you say something else."

Stunned, she remained silent, fearing he meant what he said.

Jason examined the swelling on the back of her hand. "You need proper care. It's inconvenient for you to recuperate here. How about you come to my place?"

"What? Your place?" she exclaimed.

"Yes, Reed Residence. There are many rooms; you can choose any you like, and servants will attend to you."

"No!" she refused. "I'm used to living here. It's not a serious injury; I can care for myself. I don't need servants."

His face hardened, a shadow clouding his amorous eyes. "You don't want to?"

Her throat tightened. She truly didn't want to; staying at his place would only deepen her involvement with him. She wanted nothing to do with him!

After a moment's hesitation, she swallowed and said, "You said you wouldn't force me."

"I won't force you, but that was contingent on your willingness to stay by my side. This is simply for your recuperation, so I don't have to worry." He smiled. "Sis, do you want me to worry about you?"

His smile weighed heavily on her heart. The unwavering light in his eyes confirmed her rejection was futile. He was the emperor of Emerald City; his decisions were absolute. She was powerless against him. If she refused, he had a hundred ways to make her comply.

Finally, she said, "Alright, I'll go."