Chapter 4: Ambiguity
Just then, someone else who surprised Charlotte showed up—Ethan. He noticed her too, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
Lily caught Charlotte's reaction and followed her gaze. She turned back and gave Robert a sharp pinch, grumbling, "Why didn't you check? What's Ethan doing here?"
Robert apologized sincerely, "Sorry, Charlotte! My bad for not finding out."
But it was too late. Frederick had already seen them. He pretended not to know Charlotte and only greeted Robert.
Robert was flattered.
At that moment, Frederick finally seemed to notice Charlotte.
Charlotte already had radiant skin, and today, she had dressed lightly on purpose. She wore a loose white T-shirt and light gray shorts. Her golden, slightly curly hair was tied up, giving her a fresh yet alluring look.
Frederick's gaze swept over Charlotte's fair, slender legs, and he casually remarked, "Haven't seen this one before."
Frederick was pretending to be clueless, and Robert played along.
Robert introduced, "This is Lily's college friend, Charlotte. She's a piano teacher."
Frederick chuckled lightly, "Hello, Ms. Russell."
He extended his hand in a seemingly gentlemanly manner, with a half-smile on his face.
Charlotte stood there, hesitating slightly, then pretended to be gracious and extended her hand. Her soft palm was briefly held.
Frederick released her hand quickly, a charming smile on his lips. "Ms. Russell, would you like to play a game?"
Charlotte nodded. "Sorry, I'm not very good at pool."
Frederick, in a good mood, offered, "No worries, I can teach you."
With that, everyone around them understood Frederick's intentions, and their gazes became even more suggestive.
Charlotte thought to herself that Frederick didn't avoid her at all, which meant he didn't like Ethan and didn't care about Ethan's opinion.
They moved to an empty pool table. Frederick skillfully set up the balls and then handed Charlotte a cue.
"Come on, let me show you how to hold it." Frederick stood behind Charlotte, his hands gently covering hers, adjusting her grip. Charlotte could feel his breath against her ear, making her heart race.
"Take it easy, don't stress out." Frederick's voice was low and gentle. "Now, slowly bend over and aim at the cue ball."
Charlotte followed his instructions but found her attention completely drawn to the man behind her. Frederick's presence enveloped her, giving her an inexplicable sense of security.
"Okay, now gently push the cue," Frederick guided.
Charlotte took a deep breath and pushed the cue. The white ball hit the target ball precisely, making a crisp sound.
Applause erupted around them, and people started to flatter them.
"Mr. Hawkins and Ms. Russell make a great team."
"It's all thanks to Mr. Hawkins' excellent teaching!"
The men were used to talking like this, and their teasing tone and blatant stares made Charlotte uncomfortable.
Charlotte's face turned slightly red. Frederick, close to her ear, chuckled softly, "Nice shot! Looks like you have a natural talent."
Charlotte felt a shiver run through her body. Today, she had intended to seduce him, but now she was at his mercy. Frederick held her in his arms, and they sank a few more balls together.
Just then, a familiar voice broke the cozy atmosphere.
"Nice shot; you two make a great team."
Charlotte turned her head and saw Ethan standing, smiling, not far away. She immediately felt uneasy and instinctively moved closer to Frederick.
Frederick gently patted her shoulder and gave Ethan a cold look.
Ethan walked closer to the pool table, his gaze shifting between Charlotte and Frederick. "Charlotte, you didn't even know how to hold a cue before. Looks like Mr. Hawkins is a good teacher."
Frederick raised an eyebrow at Ethan. "Wanna play a few rounds?"
"No, I just stopped by to say hi to some familiar faces. You guys go ahead," Ethan said, giving Charlotte a meaningful look.
At that moment, Lily walked over from the lounge area quickly, worried that Ethan might bully Charlotte again.
"What a coincidence! Everyone's here," Lily said, trying to sound casual. "How about we all go grab a drink? I heard the cocktails here are pretty good."
Ethan snorted, "Sure," and turned away.
Lily relaxed and whispered, "The atmosphere was so tense just now. Charlotte, are you okay?"
Charlotte gave Lily a grateful look. "I'm fine."
Everyone gathered in the lounge, sipping drinks and chatting. Lily pulled Charlotte into the restroom for a quick talk.
"Who would've thought Mr. Hawkins could be so bad! He seemed so proper at the previous gatherings," Lily said, worried that Charlotte might get in too deep, knowing that Frederick was unlikely to marry her, especially since there was still Ethan between them.
Charlotte understood the situation perfectly and whispered, "It's just physical between us. I'm not that naive."
Lily felt relieved.
Just as they were about to leave, Ethan pushed the door open and came in. He immediately shoved Charlotte against the wall, his face dark and menacing.