Falling for the Goddess

The Old Fox Knows Best

Ella Duvall followed Sam Lewis outside, this time keeping a respectable distance between them.

"Apologies," Sam said gently. "My grandfather got a little too excited. If it made you uncomfortable, please let me know."

Ella suddenly stopped in her tracks, turning to look at him with a serious expression.

"What's wrong?"

"You need to get used to it," she said with a grin, teasing him. "When you visit my house, my mom is going to be way more intense than your grandfather."

"But I haven't told them yet," she continued. "So next time she tries to set me up with someone, I'll need you to step in."

Sam met her bright, smiling eyes and was momentarily dazed.

"Sam, don't be so stiff," she added, tilting her head. "This is a mutually beneficial deal—it's not a burden for either of us."

She folded her arms. "Besides, if you keep acting like I'm forcing you into this, I might start feeling guilty."

Ella had roped him into this agreement with some light deception, so she wasn't completely guilt-free either.

Sam froze.

He—a grown man—was being outclassed in emotional intelligence by a young woman.

"...You're right," he admitted with a small sigh. "That was my mistake."

His voice was clear and smooth, as gentle as he was.

Ella had expected to have to argue her case, but he conceded so quickly that she was momentarily caught off guard.

She cleared her throat. "Good, as long as you cooperate properly in the future."

Sam's lips curved into a soft smile. "Of course. I will make sure to cooperate... thoroughly."

Ella felt her face heat up under his direct gaze. She immediately turned her head away and huffed, "That's more like it."

Just as Sam was about to continue walking, Ella suddenly lunged into his arms.

His entire body stiffened, and his eyes widened in surprise.

Ella had thrown herself at him without warning, and he instinctively caught her, his hands gently supporting her waist. But as soon as he realized their closeness, he immediately tried to step back.

"Don't move," Ella whispered. Her fingers curled into the fabric of his coat. "Your grandfather is watching."

Sam froze, then subtly turned his head—sure enough, he caught a glimpse of movement by the window.

His grandfather might be old, but he wasn't senile. If they weren't convincing, he'd definitely grow suspicious.

He lowered his gaze to the girl in his arms.

Ella had her head pressed against his chest, her hand still clutching his coat, staying perfectly still.

For a moment, the entire courtyard fell silent—only the faint sound of birds chirping and leaves rustling in the wind could be heard.

Neither of them spoke.

Before Sam could say anything, Ella suddenly pulled away.

As she moved, her soft hair brushed against his neck, leaving behind a faint ticklish sensation. He instinctively turned his head to avoid it.

Ella caught his reaction and immediately grinned mischievously.

"Sam, don't tell me you're shy?" she teased.