Chapter 481
Shay arrived at Finley's doorstep, a beautifully frosted cake cradled in her hands.
"Hey, Lin, I got you a cake. I've got to head out tomorrow, so I won't be around for your birthday bash," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of regret.
Finley's eyes lit up at the sight of the sweet confection, then warmed even more as they met Shay's radiant smile. "Shea, you remembered my birthday! Here I was, thinking it had slipped your mind."
"Forget? How could I, Lin? You're important to me. There's no way I'd forget your special day."
Finley gazed at Shay, a fondness in his eyes that seemed to grow with each moment. "Shea, thanks a ton. Why don't you stick around for dinner? I'll have the chef whip up your favorite dishes."
Despite Finley's warm invitation, Shay politely declined. "I've got to pack. Can't stay for dinner, I'm afraid."
"Then let me drive you home," Finley offered, reaching for his car keys on the table. Shay chuckled, shaking her head. "No need, I brought my car. I'll drive myself back."
After Shay left, Finley watched her drive away until her car was just a speck in the distance. He then turned, his amiable expression fading as he made his way to the garden, where he found Shanna hiding.
"What's the matter? Wanted to see how stunning Shea is up close?"
Shanna lifted her gaze, her dark eyes cold and detached. "What do I care about her beauty?"
Finley's brow furrowed. The Shanna he knew was timid, not one to speak with such a tone.
"Finley, is it that only you can speak to me this way, but I can't do the same?" she retorted. "I've told you before, I'm over you."
Shanna stormed off, but Finley swiftly scooped her up over his shoulder and carried her to his room, tossing her onto the plush bed.
As Shanna tried to rise, Finley pinned her down, capturing her wrists in his grip.
"Finley, get off! Let me go!" Shanna shouted, her wide eyes flashing with anger.
He smirked devilishly, not moving an inch. "Afraid of me, are you?"
Shanna turned her head away, but Finley seized her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. "Shea, are you trying to get my attention?"
"I am not," she replied defiantly.
Finley chuckled, his lips descending onto hers in a possessive kiss that trailed down her jawline and lingered on her collarbone.
His advances drew a soft gasp from Shanna as she struggled to break free. "Finley, stop! I'm not Shea, let me go!"
Her pleas snapped Finley back to reality. "Damn it!" he cursed, releasing her and stumbling away in confusion.
Retreating to his study, he dialed Oliver in a frenzy. "Oliver, have you ever mixed someone up with Josefina?" Finley asked, his voice a blend of panic and disbelief.