The refined man had once told her, “If you can’t handle it, come to me.” His voice had been soft then—nothing like the detached tone he’d used on their last call. Of course, those words were meant for Lila Roberts, not Makenzie Bell.

As the driver was leaving, he said, “No one usually stays here, but Mr. Mason has arranged for a chef to come by. You can ask for whatever you want, Miss Bell.”

Makenzie took in the luxurious villa, though she stayed put in the living room. The decor was a minimalist mix of wood and gray tones—cold, empty, almost completely lifeless.

Until she got an official invitation, Makenzie held off on exploring further. She settled onto the sofa to wait.

With time to kill, she scrolled through the negative press about herself online. The top trending topic was Kristen Bell’s glamorous marriage into high society. Two related headlines followed: one accused Makenzie of pushing Kristen into the water—which Kristen had graciously chosen to overlook—and another painted Makenzie as desperately begging Jason not to end things.

Reading the nasty comments made her grimace.

“Makenzie Bell is the worst. We hope she gets kicked out of the Bell family so she can’t hurt our sweet Kristen anymore!”

“She’s just a gold digger clinging to Jason because he’s her last meal ticket. Greed is literally in her blood.”

“Poor Kristen—growing up away from her family, only to be tormented by a nobody.”

“Makenzie should just vanish. Like, literally disappear!”

Makenzie’s ruined reputation was tangled up with Kristen’s rise in the entertainment world. Theo had saved her from prison, but he hadn’t lifted a finger to manage her public image. Without her laptop, she couldn’t upload the recording yet, so there was nothing she could do right now.

Makenzie turned off her phone, yawned, and decided to nap on the couch.

By eight that evening, a sleek Maybach rolled up outside the villa. Amari Wilson glanced sideways. “We just got word that the chef was in a car accident on the way here. He’s in the hospital.”

“Should we find someone else?” he asked, unsure what Theo Mason was thinking. The man’s face was still hidden in shadow.

Theo looked out at the villa. No lights. He considered it for a few seconds, then said, “No need.”

He stepped onto the porch. The moment he opened the door, a warm light flickered on, spilling from the entryway into the living room and faintly lighting the woman curled up on the sofa.

Theo walked over. Makenzie was asleep, her neckline slightly open, exposing the slender pale line of her throat as she slept deeply.

He crouched down and studied her peaceful face. The words he’d once said so casually now felt like a promise he couldn’t take back. Up close, her features really were exactly his type.

Makenzie stirred in her sleep as something brushed lightly against her eyelids. Instinctively, she reached out and caught a cool fingertip, ready to swat it away—when System 66 blared in her mind, “It’s Theo Mason! He’s looking at you and thinking about someone else! Don’t push him away! According to the script, you should pretend to be all sleepy and disoriented—this is when you look most like the heroine.”

The promise of money was as tempting as ever. She loosened her grip, let out a soft murmur, and let her eyelids flutter half open.

Through the blur, she made out a handsome face and murmured sweetly, almost dreamily, “Mr. Mason? You’re back?”

Theo’s long lashes flickered. His elegant face went still for a moment.

In the dim light, her hazy eyes mirrored the ones in his memory—innocent and sweet, like a lost lamb looking for affection.

His cool thumb brushed the corner of Makenzie’s eye, and his voice came out surprisingly warm. “Why didn’t you go upstairs to sleep?”

“I didn’t know which room was mine,” Makenzie mumbled, shrinking back and leaning away, her fingers still wrapped around his. “Stop—it’s ticklish.”

Theo hesitated, then pulled his hand back, subtly pressing his thumb and forefinger together.

Makenzie slowly sat up. Her hand accidentally hit the remote beside her, and bright light flooded the room, fully revealing the man’s face.

Now fully awake, she was stunned for a second. If Jason counted as charming, then Theo was the definition of mature male beauty—a total powerhouse of a man.

He looked like he’d just come from work, perfectly dressed in a custom dark suit that showed off broad shoulders and a narrow waist. His deep-set eyes and strong nose gave him a face that looked carved by the gods—flawless in every way.

Makenzie looked into his eyes, which still held an unguarded tenderness. She knew he was seeing someone else through her—and internally, she was cheering.

This was a win! Not only would she get paid, she’d also have this exceptional man for company. Paradise, indeed.

The sudden light shattered the illusion. Theo stood, his gaze cold again. “I’m rarely here. You can sleep in whatever room you want.”

“I understand.” Makenzie sat up, her face a little flushed. “About your earlier offer—does it still stand?”

“It does.”

Theo looked down at her, the light casting perfect shadows across his face. His tone was flat but firm. “I need a partner. Discreet. Unnamed. Would you agree, Miss Bell?”

“I wouldn’t have come if I had another option, Mr. Mason,” Makenzie said with a smile. “You’re the only one who offered me a lifeline when everyone else turned against me. Of course I agree—but I have two small conditions.”

Her conditions piqued his interest. Theo sat down and pulled a cigarette from its pack. “Speak.”

“A two-year term. I, Makenzie Bell, am willing to accept this arrangement, but during that time, I want a salary.”

Theo paused mid-motion, surprise flickering in his eyes.

Plenty of women would have done anything for a place in his bed, and here she was negotiating wages—like he was hiring an employee.

Makenzie kept her professional demeanor. “Even if this is an unconventional, high-paying job, we should have clear terms. You provide material support, and I offer companionship—ready to serve you at any time.”

Theo set the cigarette aside, his eyes fixed on her. “You’re in dire need?”

“Completely broke,” Makenzie said with an honest nod. “I don’t have a cent to my name. But I’ll only take payment for my efforts—ten thousand a month, not including benefits. I’ll handle those myself. Does that work for you?”

Theo watched her as if she were sitting in a job interview. He said nothing.

“All right.”

After a moment, he lit his cigarette. “We both get what we want.”

System 66 chimed in: “You’ve received $100,000. Theo Mason’s favorability increased by two percent. He seems to appreciate your pragmatism.”

System 66 chimed in, “Congrats, host—you’re officially Theo Mason’s close companion now. Keep up the good work.”

“Thank you, Mr. Mason,” Makenzie Bell replied. Her smile lit up her eyes in a way that made it impossible for him to look away. He stubbed out his cigarette, refocused, and stood. “There’s a birthday dinner at the Diaz family home tomorrow night. You’re coming with me.”

The invitation had Lila Roberts written all over it.

“All right. Here’s my banking info,” Makenzie said, handing over her bank card with a grin. “Please make a note of it, Mr. Mason.”

Half an hour later, Makenzie sat alone in the living room, pleased to see an advance covering almost two years land in her account. Smiling, she treated herself to an extravagant takeout dinner, then picked a room upstairs for some well-deserved rest.

Makenzie didn’t wake until noon. She stretched in her bathrobe, headed to the bathroom, then padded downstairs barefoot, her hair still tousled. She’d ordered groceries, planning to cook lunch herself.

Passing the study on the second floor, she glimpsed a figure at the desk and stopped dead in her tracks. Theo sat bathed in sunlight streaming through the windows, bent over paperwork. Gold-rimmed glasses lent a scholarly air to his otherwise commanding presence.

Theo hadn’t left for work that morning.

System 66 helpfully reminded her, “Lila Roberts always took the gentle approach.”

Makenzie adjusted her demeanor, knocked softly on the door, and said, “Mr. Mason?”

He looked up, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. With her shoulder-length hair and sleep-softened face, she exuded a tender warmth.

Seeing him quickly regain his composure, she asked gently, “Have you eaten?”

“No,” Theo said, setting down his pen, his eyes still on her.

“I’ll make something. Would you like to join me?” Makenzie offered. System 66 quickly cut in, “Lila Roberts didn’t know her way around a kitchen.”

“No worries. With these eyes doing the asking, he’ll eat.” Makenzie reassured him.

“All right.” Theo agreed with a slight nod, hiding any trace of his earlier surprise behind a composed expression. Despite his usual cool demeanor, he found warmth in her gaze.

Just then, the doorbell echoed downstairs. Makenzie smiled at him. “Do you have any dietary restrictions?”

“Make whatever you like.”

She nodded. “I’ll grab the groceries. I’ll call you when lunch is ready.”

The two kept it cordial, maintaining a respectful distance.

As a stand-in companion on her first day, Makenzie aimed to please her employer and make sure he felt his investment was worth it. Considering Theo’s sensitive stomach, she prepared two dishes and a soothing soup.

Before she could call him, Theo had already come downstairs.

“There’s something I forgot to mention last night,” he said, sitting at the table, his voice steady. “I don’t like my personal space being invaded. I’d appreciate it if you handled any outside entanglements—like young Mr. Jason—appropriately.”

“Actually, I forgot to mention something too.” Makenzie set the utensils before him and took a seat beside him. “I’ve cut ties with my family. With no support, I had no choice but to approach you. I’m completely unattached now. As for any bad press, I’ll handle it so it doesn’t trouble you.”

Theo gave her an assessing glance, nodded slightly, then picked up his fork.

His table manners were impeccable. Neither spoke throughout the meal. Then a phone call interrupted the quiet.

Makenzie went to the kitchen to answer it.

“Nora, your jewelry design has caught an international buyer’s eye. They want to sign a purchase agreement.”

System 66 quickly explained, “That’s your assistant, Luke. Your past as a jewelry designer fits your current identity.”

Despite past romantic distractions, her design talent was undeniable.

After hearing the assistant’s voice, she replied quickly, “Some family issues came up. I’ll email you the contract later.”

“Is it about young Mr. Jason again? Haven’t you sorted out the issue of him using your designs to make Kristen look more versatile?”

Makenzie raised an eyebrow. Another mess to sort out?

“Soon. I’ve got to go now.”

Back at the dining table, she found Theo’s place empty, but the dish she’d served was polished off.

At 2:30 PM, a team of stylists and makeup artists hired by Theo arrived, loaded with outfits and tools to prepare Makenzie for the evening event.

She emerged with elegantly styled, minimalist hair and a sleek white satin dress. The gown’s side slit revealed a hint of ivory skin, adding sophistication.

When not caught in drama, Makenzie’s beauty was incomparable.

Amid the stylists’ admiring comments, she turned to see Theo in a perfectly tailored dark green suit that emphasized his physique. Nearing thirty, Theo carried not an ounce of excess, embodying a composed, striking masculinity.

He approached her with appreciation clear in his eyes, though his admiration seemed to reach beyond Makenzie herself. “You look stunning, Miss Bell.”

As the stylists and makeup artists discreetly exited, Makenzie suggested lightly, “Maybe we should drop the formal titles? Considering our new arrangement and all.” Her smile stayed polite. “Of course, if that makes you uncomfortable, we can keep things as they are.”

Theo’s response was indirect. “You’re different from before.”

Before bringing her back, he’d done a thorough background check. Her past actions were morally questionable—yet somehow justifiable.

“Now I’m reliant on you, Mr. Mason,” Makenzie replied, her gaze innocent. “People tend to mind their manners when they’re living under someone else’s roof.” Her smile was pure and non-threatening.

Theo considered briefly. “Call me whatever you like.”

As his companion—albeit newly appointed—she had certain privileges.

“Theo.” Makenzie smiled, slipping her arm through his. She noticed his slight stiffening. “Is this okay?”

System 66 updated, “You’ve received $100,000. Theo Mason’s favorability increased by 3%.”

System 66 added, “You’re impressive! How did you know Lila Roberts used to cling affectionately to his arm?”

“Was that even a question?” Makenzie thought, rolling her eyes mentally. “Every romance novel plays out this way. You didn’t think I’ve read a thousand CEO romance novels for nothing, did you?”

Theo glanced down, an enigmatic smile gracing his lips. “Jason Carter will be at the Diaz family dinner. Will you still call me that in front of him?”

“To keep our relationship discreet, I’ll call you Mr. Mason in public. Trust me, I have no feelings for young Mr. Jason,” Makenzie asserted confidently, sincerity genuine in her eyes. “I don’t love him.”

Theo Mason regarded her steadily, then let a small smile slip. “Fair enough.”

The Diaz family matriarch’s dinner party was a who’s-who of the elite. A sleek black Maybach glided to a stop in front of an estate.

Inside the car, Makenzie Bell tilted her head slightly. “How will you explain my presence?”

“You’re my new assistant.”

“Okay.” Makenzie nodded agreeably.

That was exactly what she’d been thinking, too. If they looked too close in public, it would only make managing the other three male leads harder.

Theo handed her a gift box. “An Alpine crystal. A gift for the matriarch.”

The intricately carved wooden box looked lavish. She accepted it quietly, and Theo—ever gallant—walked around the car to open her door and help her out with practiced ease.

The grand doors of the banquet hall swung open, revealing a room bathed in light. With her arm linked through Theo’s, Makenzie entered slowly. Chin high, she let the chandelier’s warm glow wash over her delicate features—faithful, elegant, breathtaking.

“After years of being single, Mr. Mason finally brought a date? Who is she?” the guests murmured over their wine glasses.

In Seabrook, Theo’s personal life was scandal-free. His reputation was spotless. And for years, he’d been especially loyal to Lila Roberts.

Makenzie had picked up that tidbit from System 66, and she couldn’t help but admire the man’s loyalty.

“But 66, do you think he’s—you know—not interested in anyone? Theo’s twenty-eight. Shouldn’t there be someone close to him?”

“He’s plenty lively—just not for you,” System 66 teased, derailing her train of thought.

“Oh, come on. As if you’ve vetted him for the heroine.” Makenzie snorted quietly.

Theo glanced at her. “What’s up?”

“Nothing.”

“Don’t do anything unnecessary. Got it?” he warned coolly.

“Understood.”

Her own family was among the guests—and so was Jason. When they caught the pair whispering, surprise flickered across their faces.

Makenzie’s mother blinked in astonishment. “Isn’t that our Makenzie?”

Jordan’s gaze swept over the girl—the subtle styling made her glow—and he chuckled. “Not our Makenzie. Did you forget, Mom? She was kicked out just yesterday.”

Kristen noticed Jason staring, lost in thought, and clutched Jason’s arm. “Who knows what she’s up to? One day she’s causing trouble with Jason, the next she’s cozying up to the Mason Group’s CEO.”

Jordan suddenly understood why she’d left with such confidence. A smile tugged at his lips. “They’ve met before. Last time Dad almost had her arrested, but he stepped in.”

Makenzie spotted her family in the crowd too. Her gaze slid past them, indifferent, without lingering for even a second.

Mrs. Diaz, elegant in a Victorian gown, her hair streaked with gray and a strand of pearls in her hand, warmly regarded the approaching pair. “I thought you’d skip this year, too.”

Theo answered with composure. “I had to come.” Ever since Lila Roberts had married into the Diaz family, his visits had been scarce.

“And this young lady is?” Mrs. Diaz’s gaze shifted to the woman beside him. Something about her felt familiar.

“Good evening, ma’am. I’m Makenzie Bell, Mr. Mason’s new personal assistant.” Her smile was radiant as she presented the wooden box with both hands. “He chose this rare Alpine crystal for your birthday.”

For all her charming smile, the young woman’s tarnished reputation stood in stark contrast to her elegant appearance.

The elegant woman beside Mrs. Diaz stepped forward to accept the box. “Allow me.”

As their faces drew closer, Mrs. Diaz immediately understood why the resemblance had struck her—Makenzie bore an undeniable likeness to her granddaughter-in-law.

“It’s unusual for you to bring an assistant,” Mrs. Diaz remarked to Theo. “Care to join me for a chat in the garden?”

“Certainly.” Theo inclined his head, then said softly to Makenzie, “Stay here. Don’t wander off.”

His tone softened, and Makenzie’s gaze flicked to the elegantly poised woman holding the gift. Her eyes were slightly red.

So this was the heroine, Lila Roberts. Makenzie understood now—she was being used strategically.

“All right, I’ll stay right here,” she replied with a small smile. She reached out to straighten his tie and met his gaze with a grin. “Mr. Mason, your tie was crooked. Now it’s perfect.”

Theo nodded and led Mrs. Diaz away.

System 66 informed her. “Your account has received $500,000. Theo Mason’s favorability has increased by 4%. Your timing was spot-on—Lila Roberts is visibly affected.”

“I’m Lila Roberts, the Diaz family’s eldest daughter-in-law.” The faithful woman extended a delicate hand in greeting, her eyes a mix of curiosity and caution.

“Nice to meet you.” Makenzie shook her hand.

“Your eyes…” She paused, pressing her lips together hesitantly. “Did Mr. Mason have a makeup artist do that?”

“Nope. They’re natural.” Makenzie replied candidly, gesturing to her eyes. “Strangely enough, Mr. Mason seems captivated by them.”

Lila laughed softly. The question in her eyes brightened as understanding dawned, and she shook her head ruefully. “No wonder you became his assistant.”

Makenzie wanted to pat her shoulder and confirm the assumption, but she kept up appearances and feigned seriousness. “Ma’am, I got this job on my own merit. Mr. Mason pays me a fixed salary—no strings attached for a pair of eyes.”

Before Lila could respond, a servant whispered something in her ear. She gave Makenzie a nod and departed.

The lavish venue boasted a long table piled with exquisite foods and desserts.

Ignoring the curious and disdainful glances, Makenzie strolled over, picked up a small piece of spiced honey cake, and ate it contentedly.

Kristen approached with a glass of wine. “Mom wants you to come home. Don’t be stubborn because of Dad.”

“Oh.” She was finding the strawberry mousse quite delightful.

Kristen regarded her outfit. “An Ellie Spring Summer haute couture dress—over a hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Mason must be very generous, letting his assistant wear this?”

Makenzie paused and glanced down at the fabric in disbelief. Theo had casually given her a dress worth two years of her salary? Selling it secondhand could fetch quite a sum.

Spotting her disbelief, Kristen scoffed. “I know you’ve become Theo Mason’s lover, haven’t you? Your resemblance to Lila Roberts is uncanny.”

Makenzie quietly set the cake down and gestured behind Kristen. “Look over there.”

As Kristen turned, Makenzie swiftly hit the record button on her phone.

“What is it?” Kristen asked.

Makenzie calmly slipped her phone into her handbag. “Nothing. Just a trick of the eye. By the way, when do you plan on returning the Eternal Jewelry design sketches Jason took from me?”

“What nonsense are you talking about?” Kristen’s eyes shifted, and she denied the accusation outright.