Chapter 279: Paige Lawson's Fingers Froze Midair

"Grant, let me help with your tie."

"I'm wearing a black shirt today."

Paige Lawson's fingers froze midair, confusion flashing in her eyes. "I know."

Grant Holloway closed his eyes briefly.

A black shirt paired with a floral tie.

Only she could come up with such a combination.

He raised a hand to stop her. "Don't force it if you don't know how."

Without another glance, he walked away.

* * *

Late at night, Grant exited the corporate building after a marathon meeting.

Sliding into the driver's seat, he lit a cigarette.

Smoke curled around him as the engine remained silent.

Only when the burning tip seared his fingertips did he finally stub it out.

The luxury car drifted aimlessly through neon-lit streets.

Catherine Holloway's call went straight to voicemail.

Somehow, he found himself turning into that familiar narrow alley again.

"Damn rich kids think they can park anywhere!"

"Why do fancy cars keep showing up here lately?"

"Didn't a luxury sedan come through last week?"

* * *

At precisely 8 PM, Clara Whitmore appeared at the apartment entrance.

Grant watched greedily through tinted windows.

Today she wore a teal blue sundress.

Her hair now brushed her shoulder blades, swaying gently with each step.

Flip-flops slapped against concrete as she walked.

Grant pushed open the car door.

A figure blocked his path.

Elias Mercer stood with one hand in his pocket. "Fancy meeting you here, Mr. Holloway."

"Move!"

Seeing Clara about to disappear inside, Grant's voice turned urgent.

Elias didn't budge.

Only when the blue silhouette vanished did he finally step aside.

"You think the Mercer name gives you rights to interfere?"

"Stalking your ex, Mr. Holloway?"

"None of your damn business!"

Elias's expression remained calm. "Reporting illegal activity is every citizen's duty."

Grant's laugh came out sharp. "Playing righteous now?"

"What if I have ulterior motives?"

Elias met his glare without flinching.

"You're nothing! How many years have I known her?"

"Time was never the measure of love."

Elias's quiet words cut like knives. "Some recognize soulmates at first glance. Others spend lifetimes together as strangers."

Each syllable tightened the vise around Grant's chest.

"Blocking me won't give you a chance. Dream on!"

"I simply want her left in peace."

Turning away, Elias delivered his parting shot: "She's happy now."

From the alley entrance came angry shouts.

Several elderly men advanced with brooms raised like weapons.

Gritting his teeth, Grant slammed the accelerator.

"Mason, let's grab drinks."

Deafening club music blasted through the phone.

Mason Reed shouted over the noise: "Julian's here too!"