Perry sent her a message: “Celine, the Tate family has fallen victim to a scam. I’ve done some digging. This fake ‘Dr. C’ is part of a fraud syndicate. It turns out that most of the Tate family members are gamblers, and this time, they might lose everything.”

Celine wanted to reply, but before she could, her phone vibrated. She glanced at the screen, her heart skipping a beat. The caller was Adam.

She couldn't believe he was calling. Why? Wasn't he with Carly? Unsure why he was calling, she didn't answer. The phone buzzed repeatedly until the calls stopped.

Later, lying in bed, sleep eluded her. A soft knock broke the silence. She turned onto her side. Who could it be?

More knocks followed, firm and deliberate, echoing with insistent strength. Celine cautiously opened the door. Standing in the dimly lit hallway was Adam.

The hospital corridor was eerily quiet. Faint overhead lights cast long shadows on his chiseled features. His broad shoulders seemed to carry the chill of the night. He stood bathed in half-light, his deep black eyes fixed intently on her.

Celine's heart thudded at his sudden appearance. Why was he here?

Adam's gaze bore into hers. "Why didn't you answer my calls?" His low, husky voice held a gravelly warmth.

"I didn't hear them," Celine replied, remaining by the door.

He didn't believe her. A smirk played on his lips. "You spent the whole day with Nathan, but couldn't spare a moment for my call?" Celine's fingers curled. "Mr. Alvarez, it's late. You should go. If there's anything important, we can talk tomorrow."

She moved to close the door, but it wouldn't budge. His foot was wedged between the frame and the door, holding it open.

Celine had no choice but to look up, her clear eyes meeting his unwavering gaze. "Mr. Alvarez, what exactly do you want?"

"Do you plan to keep standing there and talking to me through the doorway? Either I come in, or you come out." His domineering tone brooked no argument.

Not wanting to disturb Nathan, Celine reluctantly stepped into the hallway. Adam immediately took her hand and pulled her along. Her hand felt small and soft in his firm grip. Unsure where he was taking her, she noted the warmth of his touch, almost unnervingly so. (The seductive scent was likely still lingering).

Celine didn't know what had gotten into him, or what his relationship with Carly was like. She didn't want to know.

She struggled to free herself. "Mr. Alvarez, let go of me!"

He didn't. He led her to an empty stairwell, then abruptly turned and pressed her against the cold wall, trapping her between the wall and his body.

Celine tried to push him away. "Mr. Alvarez, what are you doing?" Adam's handsome face blocked her vision as he began kissing her. Celine's mind went blank. The kiss was forceful. His hand braced against the wall beside her head, holding her captive as his lips claimed hers.

Realizing what was happening, Celine fought back. "Let me go!" She turned her head to escape his kiss.

Adam's heavy breathing filled the small space as he stared at her. "You asked what I wanted. This. Is the answer good enough for you?"