Tangled Temptations

Brett asked, and Harvey didn't hide anything. He offered a faint smile, the kind that barely creased his lips.

For a moment, Brett felt a pang of envy. He took a sip of his coffee to mask it.

Harvey casually flipped through a magazine nearby and said with a nonchalant air, "If you had your way, you'd drop everything for Orlena. The project's nearly wrapped up. No surprises there."

Brett took in every word.

Just then, Daniel came bounding down the stairs and, upon seeing Brett, snuggled into his embrace with rosy cheeks, murmuring, "Daddy," in that soft, affectionate way of his.

Brett stroked his son's hair. The hopeful sparkle in Daniel's eyes was unmistakable. "Can we build a snowman when it snows more, Daddy?"noveldrama

Brett said nothing. He lifted his son onto his lap and fished a candy from his pocket for the little guy.

Daniel popped the candy into his mouth, looking up with anticipation.

Brett wanted to stay to make his boy happy, but duty called. The base had a pile of issues awaiting his attention.

Brett hesitated just for a second. Harvey noticed it and took Daniel into his arms, patting him gently. "Go play with Luca upstairs for a bit. I need to have a word with your dad."

Daniel's cherubic face clouded with disappointment, but he obediently climbed the stairs.

Brett felt a twinge of guilt.

Ashton was already five, and Brett, as his father, had barely spent a few days with him. He couldn't even commit to a simple snowball fight.

Noticing Brett's troubled look, Harvey knew he was distressed.

Brett's relationship with Orlena was something Harvey couldn't comment on much —it was a mutual affection, after all.

Hoping for a happy ending for Orlena, Harvey poured another cup of coffee for Brett and ventured cautiously, "What are your plans after the project ends?"

Brett clutched the coffee cup and gazed out at the gentle snowfall. He understood Harvey's implication.

Brett spoke softly, saying, "The younger generation has mismanaged the Noland family business. I'm considering picking it up, maybe make something of it."

Harvey let the subject drop.

Brett was booked to leave on the four o'clock flight, but by two, he was already saying his goodbyes. Harvey was fully aware of the unspoken reason.

With a hug for his son and a brave face against the falling snow, Brett stepped into the car. Donny couldn't help but remark, "It's not time yet. Why are you heading out?"

Brett, having removed his leather gloves, glanced ahead with his piercing eyes. "I'm going to the studio. And stop by halfway; I'd like to grab some coffee."

...

Donny smiled to himself. Mr. Brett was clearly eager to see Miss Orlena. Donny said teasingly, "She'll be so pleased to see you."

Brett's heart felt heavy. After a moment, he spoke in a subdued voice, "I owe her and Daniel too much."

Donny wanted to offer some comfort but ended up just sighing quietly instead. The winter air, laced with fine snow, was cold.

Inside the studio, there was no heat.

2018

Orlena was shooting a shampoo commercial in a summer dress. As soon as one take was over, her、 assistant wrapped her in a blanket. She was shivering but still leaned in to review the footage with intense focus.

Brett stood at the doorway, watching her. She had said that even though her work might seem trivial, it was her livelihood. So, despite Brett's concern, he didn't interrupt.

But then Orlena spotted him. All eyes in the vicinity turned to the distinguished, well-mannered man.

The director recognized Brett. Without drawing attention, he whispered to Orlena, "Is he here for you?"

Orlena locked eyes with Brett.

Donny, quick on his feet, stepped forward with a bag of coffee for everyone saying cheerily, "Mr. Brett just happened to be passing by and thought he'd drop by Ms. Horigan's set. It's cold, so have something warm to drink, folks."

Donny handed the steamiest cup to Orlena. She approached Brett, clutching the hot coffee.

His gaze was intense.

He slipped off his coat and draped it over her shoulders, then gently tucked it around her, saying, "Can't you dress warmer? For someone your age..." It was a rebuke, but his tone was gentle.

After a pause, Orlena asked quietly, "Did you come just to see me?"

Brett glanced around, then retorted, "You think I stopped by to bring coffee to these rough gents?"

Orlena fell silent. She took a sip of the hot chocolate, feeling the warmth spread through her. "Are you angry about how I spoke to you?"

Brett fixed her with a look, and after a while, he smiled softly. "You're so much younger than me. How could I be mad at you?"

Finally, he reached out and gently ruffled her hair. The gesture was tender as if he were a husband about to leave on a journey.

Orlena was being treated with such gentleness and didn't want to break the spell of the moment.

was

Brett's voice was low. "Head home once you're done. Daniel wants to build a snowman. Keep an eye on

him; he gets sick easily. And you net

shouldhave some ginger tea yourself. Tracey keeps saying she wants to take you to Brockville for a health retreat."

Orlena was momentarily taken aback. Then, the set was ready to start shooting again. She handed back the coat.

Brett refused. "Keep it on when you rest. And... for New Year's, how about I take you and Daniel to Brockville to celebrate?"