Chapter 648 I’m Not That Desperate
Una’s expression was the very picture of despair.
Alfie, meanwhile, felt like a thundercloud had descended over his head.
Out of nowhere, someone had vomited all over him.
No one could feel remotely okay about that.
And yet, watching the panic on Una’s face, a mischievous spark lit up in Alfie’s eyes.
“Alright, Una,” he said, his tone teasing, “I see you remember what you did. Looks like I don’t need to remind you. And about the compensation you owe me… I hope you’re ready to make good on that.”
He reached to straighten his suit, then paused, remembering he was covered in vomit, and withdrew his hands. He cast a glance at Tilda and raised an eyebrow, giving her a subtle signal.
Tilda blinked in surprise.
Nathan, oblivious to Alfie’s hint, saw his chance and quickly interjected. “Mr. Alfie, she didn’t do it on purpose. And besides, you were the one leaning toward Ms. Una in the first place. Now you want her to pay up? With your status, that’s not a good look if word gets out.”
Only then did Alfie notice Nathan. He sized him up coolly, sneering, “Oh, didn’t see you there, Nathan. Tell me–do you think I need your guidance on how to handle this?”
“You little…” Nathan’s face darkened. He hadn’t expected Alfie to treat him with such blatant disregard! After all, he was one of the Bells‘ most promising sons! He’d heard Alfie was tight with Jude, but he didn’t think Alfie would get so cocky and start ignoring him. He wasn’t gonna just let that slide. And here, in front of Tilda, Nathan had to assert himself.
“Fine,” Nathan said, forcing a calm smile. “Whatever this lady owes you, I’ll cover it!”
Alfie’s eyes narrowed. “You’ll pay? And who exactly are you? Una, do you even know him?”
“Uh… I don't know him…” Una’s mind was still foggy, and she stared at Nathan in confusion.
Several onlookers couldn’t help but laugh. Nathan had tried to play the hero, but the woman in question didn’t even remember him. Maybe she didn’t want his help at all.
And yet, somehow tangling with the CEO of the Woodward Group? That was enviable! Some women even dreamed of pulling a stunt like this. They would throw themselves at Alfie and puke on him, all to leave a lasting impression and climb the social ladder.
“Ms. Una and I met briefly before,” Nathan went on, his voice louder, full of pride. “Now that she’s sobered up, she may have forgotten. As Ms. Tilda’s friend, I can’t just stand by!”
He emphasized his role as Tilda’s friend, as if the title alone gave him authority.
Alfie raised an eyebrow at Tilda. “Tilda… is this guy your friend?”
Tilda slid a hand into her pocket and shrugged. “He’s crazy. I don’t know him.”
The crowd erupted in derisive laughter. Every boast Nathan had just made now felt like a slap to his own face.
“Ms. Tilda, what…”
“Don’t call my name. We’re not close. Alfie, I’ll leave Una to you. I’m out.” With that, Tilda waved dismissively and started to leave. She had enough self–awareness to know staying would only make her a glaring third wheel. She wasn’t interested in interfering with Alfie and Una.
“Ms. Tilda!” Seeing her go, Nathan immediately abandoned any pretense of helping Una and chased after her.
“Nathan! Tilda! Wait! Don’t walk so fast!” Jarrett, finally catching on, scrambled after them. “Wh–what’s going on? Tilda, wait! I’m coming too!”
Una tried to dash off on her short legs, but Alfie caught her.
“Una, you still owe me. You’re coming with me.” Without waiting for protest, he began tugging her along.
As for Tilda… well, Alfie trusted Jude to handle her pursuers, so he didn’t need to worry. Right now, his focus was entirely on Una.
Una blinked up at him warily. “Alfie, what are you doing? You’re not trying to do anything dirty, right? I’m not for sale!”
“You ruined my suit,” Alfie said, looking down at her tiny frame with mock disapproval. “Shouldn’t you help make it right? Why are you talking about selling yourself? Besides, I’m not that desperate. So relax.”
He thought to himself, I’ll fatten her up a little, make her more huggable. Then I’ll make my move.
“What the heck?!” Una rolled her eyes in fury, practically itching to kick him.
He’s still such a pain!
When they first met, she’d intensely disliked Alfie. And now, somehow, things between them had improved. But still, thanks to him, she was now hundreds of thousands in debt!