The mention of the private enclosure made Jeffrey's throat go dry. The thought of having Rachel's delectable body entirely at his mercy left him parched with lust. His attempts to win her over these past few years had been fruitless, but this was his chance to possess the woman he yearned for, all to himself. He grew increasingly excited.

"Ian, get this done right, and the villa in Khoitwood's western suburbs will be yours."

Ian was thrilled. Knowing his added offer had paid off, he replied, "Rest assured, Mr. Smith. I won't let you down."

Upstairs, Rachel and Shane had just signed the contract. They discussed the future of traditional medicine before departing.

Matthew exited the office and asked Rachel, "That's it for today, right?"

Rachel, in a pleasant mood, replied, "Yes. You did a great job today. I'll treat you to a meal." His performance had far exceeded her expectations. His ingenious method of treating facial paralysis with rotten leaves had yielded astounding results, instantly winning over Shane. Without it, the contract renewal would have been impossible.

Chuckling, Matthew asked, "That's it? No other plans?"

"Other plans?" Rachel suddenly recalled his gulp in the office. Her expression darkened. "What other plans are you expecting?"

Matthew grinned. "Well, it's about time we took the next step in our relationship."

Rachel furrowed her brows. "What steps are you talking about?"

"Perhaps holding hands, and kissing… We've been together for quite some time, but I haven't even held your hand."

Rachel flushed. Couples normally held hands and kissed when it felt right, but Matthew's phrasing sounded improper, even obscene. Infuriated, she snapped, "What else do you want to do?"

Matthew was taken aback. Her words suggested a willingness to fulfill any request. Tempted, he began, "Actually, your body needs treatment. I don't mind acting as a medicinal catalyst for you by spending the night together."

Rachel gritted her teeth in anger. Matthew was perfect—talented, honest, competent, and reliable—but he was also a pervert, his mind constantly filled with lewd thoughts. She wanted a man who loved her, not just her body. Her ethereal beauty had accustomed her to unwanted male attention since the age of fourteen or fifteen, and she despised it. She had cultivated an aloof and icy demeanor to keep men at bay.

Matthew's behavior upset her. "Matthew, I'm dating to marry. I've already announced our relationship at my mother's birthday banquet. Can't you take our relationship seriously?"

Matthew stopped. His smile vanished as he looked at Rachel solemnly. "I've always been serious about our relationship."