Chapter 568

chapter568

“You’re not going to admit it, are you?” Mackenzie looked at the momentarily speechless Emmanuel and decisively exposed his logic. “First, you and Lexi clearly collaborated on this without consulting me. Second, the timestamp on the receipt shows these were purchased just this morning. Emmanuel, this wasn't a spontaneous gesture—it was a planned operation!”

Caught by his astute wife, Emmanuel could only offer a sheepish, awkward smile.

Unexpectedly, she let out a soft snort, her tone shifting to one of mock command. “Well? Why are you just standing there? Aren’t you going to open the car door for me?”

“Oh, right!” Emmanuel hurried to open the rear door.

Mackenzie’s eyebrows flickered. Usually, he’d open the passenger door. Does he really want that much distance between us? However, as she stepped toward the Maserati, her annoyance vanished. The back seat had been completely transformed into a stunning, custom-designed executive space in pure white. The aesthetic was grand, elegant, and radiated a sense of pristine calm.

Seeing her genuine surprise, Emmanuel felt a surge of accomplishment. He scratched his head, his smile turning genuine. “Mackenzie, do you like the exclusive seat? I had it prepared specifically for you.”

In truth, the script Rhea had suggested was far more theatrical: “Do you like the throne I’ve prepared for you, my queen? From now on, you are the only one who reigns in this house!”

Fortunately, Emmanuel had decided that was far too over-the-top. If he had actually said those words, he wouldn't be the steady, grounded man Mackenzie had married.

Despite the simplified delivery, Mackenzie found his earnestness far more endearing than a rehearsed line. It lacked pretension and felt authentically him—a man who was trying his best to be romantic in his own quiet way.

“Did you design this concept yourself?” Mackenzie asked, lingering at the door instead of getting in immediately.

“Actually, no,” Emmanuel admitted, laughing awkwardly. “A friend gave me some advice on how to make the space more comfortable for you. I hope it’s not... too much.”

Just as I suspected, she thought. While she didn't know the exact details, she had a feeling Lexi had a hand in this. She’s teaching him these little tricks? Well, I suppose I can’t complain about the result.

“Given the effort you put in, I’ll withhold my critique for now,” Mackenzie said, her voice regaining its professional edge. “Just don't make a habit of these 'surprises' without warning.” She climbed into the car, settling into the plush seat with the poised grace of a CEO. To her surprise, the ergonomics were perfect; it was easily the most comfortable seat she had ever occupied.

Emmanuel, ever the straightforward observer, didn't fully grasp the nuance of her "reprimand." He was simply relieved that she seemed to approve, as he had genuinely worried she would find the gesture unnecessary.

As they drove off, the security guard—the lone witness to the exchange—stood with a look of pure amazement. He watched the Maserati disappear, wondering if he should take notes on Emmanuel’s approach. If someone as steady and unpretentious as Mr. Lowe could impress the "Ice Goddess" with such a thoughtful gesture, perhaps there was hope for his own aspirations.

The journey back to the Yociam Residence was quiet. Mackenzie remained silent, lost in thought, while Emmanuel focused on the road, sensing that the earlier tension hadn't fully dissipated.

As soon as they entered the house and headed toward the bedroom, Emmanuel reached out and gently caught her wrist. “Mackenzie, we really need to talk.”

She stopped and looked back at him, the warmth from the car gone, replaced by the familiar, icy light in her eyes.

Is she still upset? Emmanuel wondered, feeling the shift in the air.

“Emmanuel, tell me the truth—Claudette is out of danger now, right?” Mackenzie asked, her voice steady. She wasn't ready to let him off the hook just yet. The underlying frustration of the past few days was still there, and she needed a resolution tonight that went beyond a comfortable car seat. If he couldn't bridge the gap between them, it was going to be a very long, cold night.