CHAPTER 79 BASHFUL Mary

“A shame, really.” Derik couldn’t contain his delight. “Do you still remember when I kept this apartment for myself? I suggested you keep the opposite apartment and live next door to me, but you claimed it was too noisy. If you heeded my advice, you could have taken Bella home by now.” Beauty Apartments was a joint project between their two firms. It boasted a prime location and enticing atmosphere, resulting in all of its apartments to be sold out within a short period of time. Derik had reserved an apartment for himself and had urged Kennedy to do the same. Having already owned numerous properties, Kennedy had declined at the time. It was a regrettable decision, indeed. Kennedy sipped his wine pensively. “Could you find out whether the apartment opposite to Bella’s is occupied?” Derik’s smile broadened. “What do you mean? Are you planning to purchase the apartment?” “That’s right.” “Are you planning to court her?” Derik prodded playfully. “And if the owner isn’t interested in s