Caught off guard, Maggie subconsciously smelled her clothes.

"Ah, I've been doing a part-time job at Atera Restaurant. The scent of their dishes might have clung onto my clothes.”

Sanford's frown deepened.

“You've been working part-time again? Why? Are you short on money?"

“Not really. I just find it a productive way to spend my spare time and earn some extra cash."

Sanford sneered, "And what use is that money? Stay home, and cater to my needs. I promise to treat you well."

The man looked obviously disdainful.

Maggie bit her lip and said bravely, “We are just sleeping together.

I'm not your prisoner."

Her words seemingly took Sanford aback, his facial expression shifting subtly.

He squinted at her, asking, “What's gotten into you today?"

Maggie merely hung her head in silence.

“Tell me!" Sanford commanded with emphasis.

Raising her eyes slightly, Maggie replied, "I just think that we're bound to drift apart eventually. I don’t want to depend too much on you."

Sanford stared at her and asked, "Did you fall in love with me?"

A sudden jolt of surprise made Maggie's heart race, compelling her to cast her gaze downward.

"No."

Sanford, observing her reaction, rose from his seat to approach her Gently pinching her chin, he said softly, “That's perfect. Just stay by my side, Maggie. I promise to fulfill your every desire."

The gentle timbre of his voice was as compelling as a siren's song, drawing her in without effort.

Maggie blinked, summoning the courage to shake off his hold.

“Sanford, I want a Life of my own."

Sanford's countenance turned grim.