Chapter 109

The interior of the car was spacious, like a private world where two people could quietly lean against each other. Winnie's layered pink skirt contrasted beautifully with the deep redwood accents of the car's interior, creating an atmosphere that was both soft and elegant. Her bare back, delicate as porcelain, showcased refined lines that appeared especially captivating under the dim lighting. Van's hand rested lightly on her waist, as if testing the warmth of her skin. "Eric, raise the partition," Winnie's voice was gentle, yet carried an undeniable firmness. Van raised an eyebrow and asked softly, "Why?" She curved her lips into a faint smile and whispered, "I don't want anyone watching." He chuckled quietly and casually commanded, "Eric, raise the partition." "Yes, sir," Eric responded, his tone tinged with helplessness but also understanding. As the partition slowly rose, the car fell into complete silence. Winnie's cheeks flushed slightly. She shot Van a glance and couldn't help but mutter under her breath, "You did that on purpose, didn't you?" Van glanced at her, the corners of his mouth lifting in amusement. "Eric's one of us. No need to be so shy." "He's one of 'your' people, not mine," Winnie retorted, pouting in frustration. Van raised an eyebrow, his expression briefly darkening before he exhaled softly and patted her waist. "Don't ruin the mood." Winnie didn't respond. Instead, she lowered her head and let out a quiet laugh. She realized her earlier comment had been unnecessary and had disrupted the tender atmosphere between them. She also understood that it was because this serene happiness felt too perfect that she instinctively wanted to break it—giving herself a safe escape. "You won an award," Van said, changing the subject when she didn't respond. "Forget it," Winnie answered casually, distracted. "It's not important." "Should we celebrate then?" Van asked tentatively. "Celebrate?" Winnie paused, initially planning to decline. But after a moment of thought, she nodded. "Alright, let's celebrate. After all, good luck has to be embraced to keep it going." Her tone was light, as if stating an obvious fact. Van smiled, his gaze soft as it rested on her face. Winnie's sincerity and innocence brought a sense of joy he couldn't resist. She suddenly sat up straight, looked at him intently, and then leaned in to kiss him. Van froze for a moment but quickly responded, gently pulling her closer as he returned the kiss. The car passed down a street where the Christmas tree in the plaza was already lit, its colorful lights brightening the night sky. Winnie's face glowed with a radiant smile, while Van reached for the champagne he had prepared. A sleek, elegant bottle lay quietly in the ice bucket, its surface glinting faintly under the lights. "Is this the wine you like?" Winnie raised an eyebrow playfully, her tone teasing. "You guess." Van looked back at her with a meaningful gaze, his eyes warm. She lowered her head and softly replied, "I'd say yes." Van chuckled, a hint of indulgence flickering in his eyes. Turning back, he reached for the champagne, expertly popping the cork. The fragrant aroma of the wine instantly filled the air. "Come, let's celebrate," he said, raising a glass. Winnie smiled faintly, lifted her glass, and clinked it against his. "Cheers." As the car turned a corner, a slight jolt caused Winnie to lose her balance, nearly falling over. Champagne splashed slightly, tiny bubbles sparkling in the interior. "My couture dress!" she exclaimed in a low voice, concerned. Van remained unbothered, replying nonchalantly, "I'll buy you another." Just then, the phone rang. It was Anne, anxiously asking Winnie why she wasn't wearing the jewelry set worth 30 million. Van was about to repeat, "I'll buy it," but Winnie decisively interjected, "I'll return it tonight!" "If you like it..." Van began, smiling at her with a playful tone. "I don't like it!" Winnie cut him off directly, a trace of helpless humor curling her lips. Van raised an eyebrow, as if contemplating something. "Then am I holding an angel in my arms right now?" Winnie was instantly amused by his words. She bit her lower lip lightly, laughing as she leaned against his shoulder. "You're the real angel here." Van gazed at her slightly tipsy expression, his heart softening. She quietly asked, "Am I really an angel?" Instead of answering, Van lowered his head and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. The car eventually stopped in front of the estate. Winnie slipped on a pair of soft slippers and walked inside, sitting on the marble steps as she waited for Van. She wasn't entirely familiar with the new home yet and appeared a little disoriented. A maid quickly approached, handing her a pair of shoes. "Miss Loxley, these are the ones you've worn before." Winnie smiled gratefully, accepting the shoes and putting them on. Then, she looked up at Van and softly asked, "Mr. Marlowe, where's my gift?" "It's in the backyard."