Sorry My Step-Uncle, I'm Not Your Backup Plan novel Chapter 26

Perhaps sensing her nervousness, Asher said, "Let me know if you need anything. I'll go up for a shower."

"Wait."

He paused, turning back. "Yes?"

Gabriella pulled a glass bottle from her bag. "Could you help arrange testing for this milk? I think it might have been tampered with."

Asher's eyes sharpened. "Someone's trying to harm you?"

She nodded gravely. "I think so. Better safe than sorry."

"Leave it to me."

He stepped away to make a call.

"Come up. I need you to handle something." His voice faded as he disappeared around the corner.

Gabriella exhaled, finally relaxing.

When she'd handed him the bottle, she'd unexpectedly met his dark eyes. Her heart had nearly stopped.

His eyes were stunning.

No—not just his eyes. His entire face was a masterpiece, and meeting his gaze made her pulse race involuntarily.

After he left, she surveyed the suite.

Signs of regular occupancy were evident—personal items scattered in the living room, as if someone stayed here often.

Strange. The suite didn't seem newly booked, but rather frequently used.

Wasn't he always in London?

She pushed the thought aside—it wasn't her business.

Bringing her suitcase to the bedroom, she realized she had clothes and skincare but no slippers for the shower.

As she debated mentioning this to Asher, the doorbell rang.

A uniformed hotel staff member stood outside with a tray and bag. "Delivery for Mr. Blackwood, ma'am."

Gabriella accepted them. "Thank you."

On the tray sat a glass of warm milk, and in the bag were new women's slippers, fresh towels, and toiletries.

All for her, she realized, touched by his thoughtfulness.

"Did everything arrive?" Asher appeared at the stairs.

"Yes, thank you."

Their eyes met, creating an odd moment. He wasn't just her childhood neighbor anymore, but her fiancé.

He approached. "The milk's for you."

"Oh?" she looked up, surprised. "I thought it was yours."

"Not my habit. Please, have it."

He opened the door to his waiting assistant.

"Get this tested," he handed over the suspect bottle.

"Right away, sir."

Turning back, he caught Gabriella watching him.

Her clear, bright eyes held such curiosity, like a small woodland creature.

Something fluttered in his chest, light as a feather.

He couldn't resist ruffling her hair gently, just as he had when they were younger. "Early night? What time should I wake you?"