Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1896

Estelle quirked an eyebrow. "What's up?"

Lambert's gaze suddenly softened, his deep brown eyes reflecting a beautiful light as he stared at her unwaveringly. Then, a slow smile spread across his face. "You're every bit as stunning as I imagined." Estelle pressed again, "You looking for a bodyguard?"

"Absolutely." The man grinned broadly, his pearly whites on full display. "I'm in the market for a bodyguard who's as beautiful as you."

Estelle replied, "If you want me for a bodyguard, it's gonna cost you a pretty penny."

He leaned in, his voice low. "Name your price. How much are you worth?"

"Maybe," Estelle's eyes were ice-cold, "it'll cost you your life."

Lambert burst into laughter, a joyful, infectious sound that made his eyes sparkle. "My life, huh? It's yours for the taking tonight."

Estelle turned away, knowing he wasn't serious, and didn't bite.

"Seriously, though, name your price." Lambert's tone was almost pleading.

Estelle paused for a moment, then said, "One hundred thousand dollars, per month. That's the deal."

"Done." he exclaimed with gusto. "From this second on, you're with me."

Estelle didn't waste her breath on a snappy comeback, but made herself clear. "Just so we're on the same page, I'm only responsible for your safety during business deals. Don't expect me to entertain any unreasonable requests."

"Don't worry, with the rate I'm paying, I wouldn't dream of it," Lambert said with a cheeky grin. "But from now on, unless you're sleeping, you've got to be by my side."

Estelle nodded. "Deal."

"Ok, let's head home."

They walked to the parking lot, where a sleek blue Rolls-Royce Cullinan awaited them. Estelle asked, "Need me to drive?"

"Not today. You're not familiar with the roads." He winked at her playfully. "Just enjoy the ride."

Estelle climbed into the passenger seat.

Lambert drove through Citadel's orderly streets, heading north.

Gradually, the hustle and bustle faded behind them, and the road ahead became quiet and open.

Citadel was nestled between mountains and sea, and Lambert's house was perched near the shore.

The hundred-year-old castle stood proudly on the edge of the beach, its vast grounds bearing the Brennan family crest at every turn.

The Brennans, a lineage born from the union of noble families from C Country and Y Country, were an ancient clan, still possessing noble blood and incalculable wealth. The world watched with keen interest every time the Brennan family head was succeeded.

And Lambert was the heir apparent.

Of course, he had a rival-his half-brother, born to his father's second wife.

The car rolled through the grand iron gates and along the cobblestone drive, flanked by towering ancient trees that blotted out the sky with their dense canopy.

After a five- or six-minute drive, they pulled up in front of the main castle. The butler, in a tailored suit and bow tie, along with the staff, had been waiting.

Lambert got out, and both the butler and the staff bowed deeply in respect. "Welcome home, Mr. Lambert."

Lambert pointed to one of the servants. "Take her to rest, and make sure she's well looked after."

"Yes, sir." The servant bowed and turned to Estelle. "Miss, please follow me."

Lambert's eyes met Estelle's. "Rest well and sweet dreams."

She nodded slightly and followed the servant into the castle.

Once Estelle was out of sight, the butler leaned in and asked Lambert, "Mr. Lambert, is she your new lover?"