Chapter 519
Byron’s hand stilled on Maeve’s head. A tremor, followed by a muffled laugh, vibrated against her ear. “Where is it? I’ll get it myself,” he murmured, his mood buoyant after a grueling day.
Maeve, already drowsy, mumbled, “Tomorrow,” before drifting back to sleep. Byron leaned down, kissing her furry head. He wanted to celebrate, but her slumber quelled his exuberance. He shifted, holding her close as he drifted off.
The next morning, Maeve still slept soundly. After showering, Byron picked up his document bag—unusually full. Inside, a small, light gray box tumbled out, revealing a silver-gray striped tie. His eyes softened. He swapped his own tie for the new one, then kissed Maeve’s forehead. She remained fast asleep.
At the McDaniel Group, Archer’s eyes widened. “Mr. McDaniel, you look…energetic. I’ve never seen that tie before. It’s perfect.”
Byron’s lips curved slightly. “Maeve’s surprise,” he said, a hint of pride in his voice.
Archer grinned. “Ms. Reese has excellent taste! A truly considerate fiancée.” He launched into a lengthy compliment about the tie. The other secretaries noticed the change too. Byron, usually clad in somber hues, wore a light suit, perfectly complementing the tie. His usual commanding presence was replaced by an elegant grace. The women of the McDaniel Group were envious, except for one.
Molly’s heart hammered. “Mr. McDaniel’s wearing the tie I gave him!” The realization hit her with the force of revelation. This was her chance. “Serena was right! I have a better chance than Maeve. I need to play it cool.” She fled, her face burning.
Meanwhile, at Dreamscape Studio, Maeve guided Ryan through various designs. Inspiration struck; she sketched new drafts, far superior to the existing ones. They collaborated seamlessly, Maeve improvising a simplified version on the spot. The result was stunning.
Ryan preferred the new style, marveling at Maeve’s ability to transform simple fabric into something breathtaking. During a break, he noticed her still engrossed in the designs, her eyes sparkling with each new idea. He was captivated by her intensity. But his concern went deeper than mere admiration. He worried about her neglecting her meals, remembering Zephyr’s similar work habits, and the potential for gastric problems. He interrupted her, gently suggesting lunch. He had no pressing engagements, and he wanted to stay with her.
Maeve, feeling a little guilty for keeping him waiting, treated him to Japanese food. She mentioned seeing Jaxson yesterday.
“My fourth brother,” Ryan explained. “He goes to the consultation center after big projects—it’s a personal ritual. He’s a renowned psychologist, award-winning even, so you can trust him.”
Maeve was impressed. “Is there something special about the name ‘Soar’? Your family seems to excel in every field.”
Ryan chuckled. “Not really. We just have different interests. Zephyr, pressured by the family, is the exception.” He paused. “You know Zephyr?”
“A few chance encounters,” Maeve replied vaguely.
Ryan, recalling his sister’s assessment of her, decided against probing further. As Maeve turned to ask for something, he glimpsed a faint mark on her neck. Before he could focus, she turned away. He couldn’t shake the feeling of familiarity, but the memory eluded him. It was maddening.
After lunch, they returned to the studio. Maeve meticulously worked until eight o’clock, then rushed back to the manor, only to halt abruptly upon seeing Byron’s tie.