Felicia could no longer contain herself and kicked him. "Hey, bastard! What else are you trying to do?"

Stephan's face, still stunningly handsome, held a passionate expression that was irresistibly sexy. He stared intensely at her, the corners of his eyes tinged red, making him look devilish. Felicia's breath hitched, her heart quickening.

Stephan chuckled lightly, effortlessly seizing her ankle and pulling her into his arms. "I'm just repeating what I did to you in the dream."

Felicia was enraged. Did he really think she had no temper? She pressed him down, taking control. Looming above him, chin slightly raised, she regarded him with an air of superior provocation. She was cunning, lively, domineering, and adorable all at once.

Stephan suppressed laughter, lying with an expression suggesting he would let her do as she pleased. But Felicia, seeking petty revenge, deliberately prolonged the moment. She sipped water, slowly tied her hair, savoring the slow-motion power play. "Hmph! Let's see how long you can hold on!" she thought.

A sense of satisfaction bloomed. Usually, she was the tormented one. Today, the tables had turned. She planned to take full advantage.

After tying her hair, she poured another glass of water, stealing a glance at Stephan. He was remarkably patient, lying relaxed, seemingly waiting for her move. Felicia wondered if she'd overestimated her charm or underestimated Stephan's self-control. Either way, he was a tough nut to crack.

Just as she considered her next move, everything shifted. Before she knew it, control was wrested from her. A shadow loomed, Stephan's handsome face appearing before her. His dark eyes were intense, his voice low and husky. When pleading for mercy failed, Felicia realized this man was not to be trifled with.

By the time Felicia left the bedroom, it was the following evening. News of Stephan's poisoning and near-death spread like wildfire. Felicia overheard fragments and was ready to curse. Poisoned and dying? She was the one who almost died! That bastard was a good actor!

The more Felicia thought about it, the angrier she became. Looking up, she saw Scarlet in a corridor, arms crossed, a smirk on her face. "Hey boss, you're looking quite well, huh?"

Felicia choked in surprise, coughing uncontrollably. She quickly changed the subject. "You… didn't leave?" She'd been so focused on Stephan she'd forgotten her bodyguard.