Chapter 53

Jack couldn't resist holding Bella in his arms. Surrounded by her sweet fragrance, he instinctively leaned in and kissed her. The softness and sweetness of her lips, combined with her delicate scent, stirred something within him.

Could this be the taste of love?

Bella let out a soft, involuntary murmur as she felt Jack's warmth. A wave of indescribable emotion swept over her. Her body relaxed, and she leaned completely into his embrace, allowing him to hold her as he pleased.

She couldn't pinpoint when it had started, but she often fantasized about being in Jack's arms.

Meanwhile, Jack was immersed in this newfound sensation of love. His mind began to wander.

From the way Bella was acting, was she genuinely falling for him? If she wasn't, how could she play the role so convincingly? If this was all an act, it was far too meticulous.

"What are you thinking about?" Bella suddenly looked up and asked softly.

Jack shook his head. "Nothing."

Although he felt deeply drawn to Bella, part of him couldn't help but worry-was this all just a trap wrapped in tenderness?

Bella smiled sweetly, her eyes twinkling. "Big Bun, do you like me?"

Jack's heart skipped a beat. He knew he couldn't dodge the question. With sincerity in his eyes, he answered slowly, "Yes, I do."

Bella's eyes lit up, and a radiant joy spread across her face. Her heart felt as though it had been drenched in honey.

Still holding her close, Jack said, "By the way, did you know there's a basketball game between the School of Finance and the School of Music in a few days?"

Bella tilted her head curiously. "I've heard about it. Are you going to play?"

Jack nodded. "I might give it a shot."

Bella blinked in surprise. She hadn't expected Jack to play basketball. She didn't know how skilled he was, but there was something inherently charming and energetic about a guy who played basketball.

"I'll definitely be there to cheer you on," Bella said gently.

As the two continued chatting, the sound of approaching footsteps interrupted their conversation.

A girl with striking features appeared and called out, "Bella, what are you doing here?"

Jack immediately recognized her as Gigi Vogel, Bella's friend whom he had briefly encountered before. While he didn't know her name at the time, the disdain in her eyes during their previous meeting had left a lasting impression.

Seeing Gigi, Bella quickly stepped away from Jack and said softly, "My classmate is here. I'll head back now. Don't forget to wear the clothes I ironed for you."

Jack gave Gigi a polite nod as a form of greeting and then turned to leave.

After walking a short distance, Jack suddenly remembered that the clothes were still with Bella. He turned back to retrieve them, only to overhear a conversation between Bella and Gigi in a secluded corner. Fresh chapters posted on find(ɴ)ovel.net

He heard Gigi say in a mocking voice, "Look at how happy he was. Bella, I bet he's completely smitten with you."

Bella responded with a proud smile. "He's not that bad, actually. He's even joining the college basketball team."

Gigi scoffed dismissively. "A guy like him? He's just going to embarrass himself on the court.

"Do you know Flynn Osborne from Class One? He's incredible at basketball. Back when he was studying in Federia, several top basketball schools invited him to join. With him on our team, the School of Finance doesn't stand a chance."