INTIMIDATION MELTS AWAY : When the CEO-PROFESSOR falls in love (JenLisa)

38: [ MY FATHER'S ESTATE ]

JENNIE POV

"Is it alright if I take you somewhere, Nini?" Lisa asked, her arms wrapped around me from behind. I had insisted on washing the dishes while she cleaned the counter-a compromise after our breakfast mishap. Lili had managed to burnt her food attempts, and she couldn't stand the thought of me eating charred food, so we were left with the choice of either ordering in or cooking again.

"I would love to go," I replied, a smile tugging at my lips. Lisa always had a knack for surprises, and going out with her was always a joy. I loved every minute we spent together. As I scrubbed the last dish, I felt her nuzzle into my hair, her lips brushing against my head as she hummed softly.

"You would love to come, Nini?" she repeated, her voice lilting playfully, drawing out the last word in a teasing way. I glanced over my shoulder at her, squinting with mock suspicion.

"And when did you pick up that teasing habit?" I asked, charmed by her playful nature. Her smile was a blend of sweet and seductive, a look that never failed to captivate me. Her soft giggle filled the air, a sound that made my heart flutter.

"Since last night," she murmured, pressing a kiss to the back of my head. I couldn't help but smile and shake my head at her antics.

"You sounded like Rosie just now, Lili," I noted, thinking of our friend who had a knack for playful teasing. Rosie was the only one who could effortlessly tease us like that, always quick with a quip or a bold remark that left us laughing and wondering how she came up with such things.

"Rosie really does have a unique way with words, doesn't she?" She agreed, and we both laughed as we finished up in the kitchen. She helped me dry the dishes, her movements quick and efficient.

After tidying up, we headed out for the place Lili had mentioned earlier. She drove, her hand in mine as she described the passing scenery with a gentle enthusiasm that made me smile. The drive was peaceful, the world outside the car slipping by in a blur of color and light.

When we finally arrived, I noticed that we were in a secluded area, the only sign of civilization being a large gate with a striking "M" logo emblazoned on it. Two men stood by the entrance, their demeanor respectful yet alert. Lili parked the car and came around to open my door, her smile warm as I kissed her cheek in thanks.

As we approached the gate, the men bowed deeply, greeting us with quiet reverence. I couldn't help but wonder where we were, especially since there were no other houses in sight. The gate swung open slowly, and Lili took my hand, leading me down a path paved with finely-cut stone. Delicate purple flowers lined the way, their petals vibrant against the lush, meticulously trimmed grass.

As we walked, I spotted three tombstones up ahead. My steps slowed as I realized where we were. I glanced at Lili, a smile spreading across my face as she returned the look, squeezing my hand gently. The realization hit me-these were Lili's parents' graves. The elegant surroundings spoke of wealth and prestige, a far cry from the ordinary.

But why had she never told me about such wealth before?

We stopped in front of the tombstones, and I took a closer look at the inscriptions. One of the stones was blank, its surface smooth and untouched.

"Meet my parents, Nini," Lili said softly, her hand still holding mine as she gazed at the tombstones.

I read the inscriptions again, my heart skipping a beat.

Marco Manoban

Chithip Manoban

These were Lili's parents. I glanced back at her, a mix of emotions swirling inside me.