chapter1427

"No need. I feel a bit warm, too," Joshua replied.

Stella chanced a glance at him, only to find him staring at her with an unwavering intensity. His dark eyes were like deep, still pools, glinting with an unreadable light.

A shiver ran down her spine. That familiar, yet rare, sense of unease washed over her again. A strange premonition of danger pricked at her subconscious. She knew, instinctively, that she had to get out of there.

Forgetting all about work, Stella shot to her feet. "I have something to take care of. I'll be right back."

Without waiting for his reaction or daring to look at his face, she ducked her head and made to leave. But as she turned, Joshua suddenly reached out and grabbed her wrist.

"Star, wait."

Already flustered and desperate to escape, she hadn't anticipated his move. Caught off guard, she lost her balance and nearly fell.

With lightning-fast reflexes, Joshua pulled her back upright. Stella felt a flush of shame and frustration at her own lack of composure. She wasn't some naive girl who'd never seen a man before. What was wrong with her today? She had made a complete fool of herself in front of him. If Joshua knew she was having wild thoughts about him, he would probably think she was pathetic.

"Star, are you okay?" he asked.

Stella took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. "I'm fine. I just... I really do have something to do. I'll come find you in a bit."

Before he could reply, she hurried out of the room, her quick pace looking suspiciously like a panicked retreat.

...

The contract signing, though it had its hurdles, was ultimately a success. Once both parties confirmed everything was in order, Mr. Franco insisted on treating Stella to dinner to celebrate.

Stella usually avoided business dinners and social obligations whenever possible and had intended to decline Mr. Franco's invitation. However, he was incredibly persistent.

"Ms. Cameron, I've arranged a special program just for you tonight. You absolutely must come!"

His enthusiasm made it impossible to refuse. At eight o'clock that evening, Stella and Joshua arrived at the entertainment club Mr. Franco had mentioned.

Seeing Joshua when she left her room, Stella still felt a little awkward. But he acted completely normal, treating her just as he always did, which helped her relax.

When they arrived at the club, Mr. Franco and his department managers were already waiting by the entrance. He greeted them warmly.

"Ms. Cameron, you're finally here! Please, come in, come in. The performance tonight will not disappoint you."

His words piqued Stella's curiosity. "What exactly have you arranged, Mr. Franco?"

Just as he was about to answer, he seemed to feel a chilling gaze and glanced over at Joshua. He then turned back to Stella with a mystenous smile. Let's just say a program that will be a pleasant surprise for you, Ms. Cameron."

They were led into a performance hall. Although Joshua was her bodyguard, a seat had been arranged for him right beside Stella. After Mr. Franco had drinks served, the overhead lights began to dim. Music started to purse through the room as the stage lights flared to life, revealing five handsome, perfectly built young men standing on stage.

Stella froze for a second, then turned to Mr. Franco. "Mr. Franco, what is this?"

Mr. Franco, a man in his forties,

amy

explained, "It's a male revue. I hear it's the kind of show young women are really into these days. I had. assistant hand-pick these guys, they're the best of the best. Looks physique, charisma they're top-notch."

Looks