Chapter 186

Mom's voice was filled with concern. "Serena, I'm really worried about you." Seeing her tear-filled eyes, I couldn't help but reach out and hold her hand. "Mom, don't worry. These are just small matters. "Don't listen to Julian's nonsense. As for the situation online, Alex has already asked Oliver to handle it." Mom hesitated several times before finally saying, "That's not what I'm worried about." "Then what is it?" I looked at her, and for a split second, I felt an inexplicable sense of guilt. "Serena, why do I feel like… there's something going on between you and Alex?" Her gaze locked onto mine. I quickly averted my eyes, trying my best to keep my voice steady. "No… We don't have anything going on between us beyond work-related matters." I thought my answer was flawless, but Mom's expression gradually changed. "Serena, you're being foolish." Her tone was filled with frustration. "Do you even understand who Alex is? He's the CEO of Hastings Group—a man even more remarkable