Chapter 109

Nicholas, however, only tightened his grip, his expression unwavering. “You can call me whatever you want, babe,” he said with a teasing grin.

Emily blinked in shock, utterly thrown off by his sudden change in tone.

Babe?

The word echoed in her mind like a bad joke, sending an uncomfortable shiver down her spine. Goosebumps prickled her skin, and she felt a wave of secondhand embarrassment.

Eew,

she thought, cringing internally. Why is he acting like some teenager trying out bad pick-up lines?

Her reaction didn’t seem to faze him. Instead, his expression shifted, concern flashing across his features as his gaze scanned her from head to toe. “Why are you still in yesterday’s clothes? Are you not feeling well?” he asked, his tone softening as if he truly cared.

Emily snapped out of her disbelief and immediately pushed him away, putting as much distance between them as the room allowed.