?<strong>Chapter 125:</strong>


    Judy’s urgency was palpable as she asserted, “I’m genuinely serious.” She then patted her chest, her voice earnest. “I desire to serve your family to atone for the harm done. Let mefort your heart on Joanna’s behalf, Mr. Owen.”


    Raising an eyebrow, Jayden replied with a hint of detachment, “Keep your excessive sympathy to yourself. I have no need for anyone tofort my heart.”


    Despite his dismissive words, Judy nodded and continued unfazed, gracefully serving him a cup of hot tea. Her refined manners indicated a good upbringing, and her willingness to serve highlighted the effective training of the Foster family.


    As Judy prepared to depart, Jayden halted her. “Wait, don’t leave just yet. If you’re truly keen to work, sign this contract so there will be noplications in hiring you.”


    Judy beamed with happiness upon hearing this. “I’d love to sign the contract. How long do you expect to need my services?”


    “One week,” Jayden answered.


    “That’s far too short. A minimum of one month,” Judy eximed with enthusiasm.


    Giving her a meaningful look, Jayden paused for three seconds. “Are you certain?”


    Judy affirmed confidently, “Of course, I’m sure. If you find my work satisfactory, I’d be happy to stay on for a few more months.” She then shyly nced at him, her cheeks flushed with red.


    Chuckling at her reaction, Jayden amended, “Alright, a month then.” He printed out the new documents andid them before Judy with a smile. “Take a look at the contract. If everything looks good, you can sign it.”


    Quickly scanning the documents, Judy signed her name. “I’ve signed it,” she announced, handing the signed contract back to Jayden.


    epting the contract, Jayden offered a gentle reminder, “You didn’t read through the contract carefully just now. Remember, no regrets after signing.”


    “I won’t have any regrets. Choosing to serve you is my decision,” Judy responded, hinting at the deeper feelings she harbored. She yearned to dere her affection for Jayden openly but restrained herself. For now, he was still a stranger to her emotions. She knew she needed to reveal her feelings gradually.


    “Leave now. I’m going to read,” Jayden stated as he stored the contract, dismissing her without further ado.


    Mr. Owen, enjoy your reading. I won’t disturb you further,” Judy said as she turned and exited the study, leaving Jayden to his solitude.


    As Elyse entered from the garden, she noticed Judy emerging from Jayden’s study, her face noticeably red. Elyse narrowed her eyes slightly, curious about the cause.


    “Judy, were you in the study?” Elyse asked in a rxed tone.


    “Yes, Mr. Owen needed my assistance, so I went in,” Judy replied, her cheeks still flushed, her demeanor shy.


    Growing more curious, Elyse pressed further. “What did Jayden need help with?”


    Judy ced a finger to her lips, silencing Elyse. “It’s a secret between Mr. Owen and me. Please respect our privacy. I can’t disclose everything.”


    Stunned, Elyse watched as Judy quickly changed the subject. “I’m heading to the kitchen to see what the chef is preparing. I’m not sure if he’ll make Mr. Owen’s favorite dishes today.”


    Elyse was taken aback. A secret between them? A twinge of jealousy arose, sensing Judy’s provocation. Had Jayden not noticed?


    Approaching the study, Elyse knocked. After Jayden invited her in, she entered and was about to speak when she noticed a document on the desk—a contract with Judy’s signature at the bottom.


    Quickly reading through it, her jealousy red. “Is the secret between you and Judy that you’ve arranged to keep her on as your maid?” she asked, her toneced with displeasure.


    Jayden had mentioned sending Judy to his grandpa’s ce as a maid. Why then did Judy linger here shyly instead of departing? Maybe Jayden never intended to send Judy away. Could it be that he deceived her earlier, nning to keep Judy close by?


    While Jayden focused on hisputer screen, he failed to notice the distress evident on Elyse’s face. With calm assurance, he stated, “Judy orchestrated her role as a servant herself, and I merely facilitated her request. There’s no secret involved.”


    Elyse, however, interpreted his words differently. Could it be that Judy’s genuine approach had influenced Jayden to alter his ns?


    Considering Jayden’s profound aversion to Joanna, Elyse couldn’t help but wonder why he showed such tenderness towards Judy.


    A wave of sadness overcame Elyse. “Jayden, when you decided to bring her into our home as a servant, did you think about the impact on me? Do you appreciate her qualities, and are you perhaps looking to pursue something with her?”


    This questioning seemed to resonate with Jayden. When he finally lifted his gaze from the screen and saw Elyse’s tearful eyes, he was taken aback. “Why are you crying?” he asked, puzzled.


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