Chapter 28: Maria Grew Closer To Claude

Maria chuckled, "Oh no, please. It's only a favor." "It sure is a big one. You must allow me to thank you properly." "You just did." Maria glanced at the door and then back at Claude. "You help me chase away the bullies, so I can't thank you enough." Claude stepped closer. "But you protected my portrait, Maria." Her name sounded like a gentle caress in his voice. Maria inched back in wary. "I thought you'd be upset for your wife. You said she would love to have your portrait next to hers." The predator was amazed by the witty response. It was unexpected but thrilling. Who would've thought that his prey was smart too? Daisy didn't have her wits for sure. If she did, it would have been more troublesome for him. But the Greek god of business also loved a good challenge, especially with women. Switching to a warm smile, he replied softly, "You really are a kind woman, Maria." "You have been kind to me too, Claude." Her eyes caught the mess o