Chapter 58

Since Marilee wanted to stir up a media war, Alexia figured she might as well join the game.

After her post, it didn't take long for the internet to explode with reactions. Within minutes,her follower count exploded.

Marilee's supporters were quick to attack, flooding Alexia's inbox with hateful messages. Onlookers were stunned that Alexia, branded as the 'fake daughter,' still had the guts to announce a live stream despite the backlash. But once people actually watched what she posted, they were drawn in. It was surprisingly entertaining, enough to make them hit that follow button.

It was clear that tonight's live stream was going to be wild.

While thousands were setting reminders for the broadcast, Alexia pulled up outside Waylon's company building.

Inside, Waylon stepped out of a meeting room, followed closely by Simon.,regarding today's lunch arrangements..."

"Didn't I say to cancel this week's lunch orders?" Waylon said, checking his watch. "And make sure the front desk doesn't delay Alexia's entry."

Simon quickly nodded. "Already taken care of. She'll get in without any holdup."

Alexia stepped into the elevator and headed straight for the top floor without any issues.

When the elevator doors slid open, she unexpectedly came face-to-face with Waylon.

He stood tall and composed, the light behind him casting a long silhouette across the floor. Dressed in a charcoal-gray shirt with two buttons left open, he looked effortlessly refined and striking.

But when he saw Alexia, something changed-his usual distant look softened, and a faint smile appeared on his lips.

Alexia's heart gave a small jolt.

She couldn't help but wonder if Waylon smiled that gently at everyone or just her.

They stepped into his office together. Waylon glanced over and said, "Right on schedule, as always."

"Of course, I'm never late," Alexia replied, briefly eyeing the stylish furnishings. "Nice decor, by the way."

Waylon didn't comment, instead, his eyes shifted to the lunchbox in her hands, clearly more interested in what she'd brought. "So, what's on the menu today?"

"You'll find out in a second," Alexia said cheerfully, pulling out a five-layer lunchbox with flair. "Surprise!"

Waylon peeked inside and spotted his favorite sweet glazed ribs, along with a spread of other neatly prepared dishes.

They weren't gourmet, but they clearly took time and care to make them.

"That's quite the spread," Waylon said, looking a little impressed. He hadn't expected her to go all out.③

Alexia chuckled. "Of course, it's not just for you. I'm eating too!"

She'd promised to have lunch with him-there was no way she'd bring just ribs.

Waylon gave a low chuckle. "So the ribs were the only thing you made with me in mind,huh?"

Alexia shot him a look. He stopped talking and reached for a shrimp.

Alexia watched him intently. "Well? How is it?"

He chewed slowly, wearing a serious expression, but didn't respond right away.

"Is something wrong?" she asked, growing concerned. "Too salty? Did I mess it up?"

Looking uncertain, she took a bite herself and chewed slowly, but she didn't taste anything wrong.Watching her confused face,Waylon finally laughed. "It's amazing. Best food I've ever tasted."

Alexia froze for a second, then smirked and gently nudged his shoe with her foot.

Waylon noticed the soft pink tint creeping up her cheeks and ears. His eyes narrowed slightly as he watched her in silence.

After a moment, he quietly looked away, but not before the thought crossed his mind-she was even more adorable than he remembered.

Alexia missed the way. his expression shifted. "Best food you've ever had? That's a big statement," she said with a playful smirk, lifting her chin proudly. "But let's be honest, my cooking skills are way ahead of yours.You know it, I know it."

Cooking was the one domain where Alexia had Waylon completely beat. She didn't brag about it often, but catching Waylon off guard like this was always satisfying.

Waylon let out a quiet huff, noticing how pleased she looked. "There's time. I'll catch up eventually."

Alexia grinned and teased, "Try learning to fry an egg before making big promises."

Waylon gave a strained smile. "Instead of roasting me, maybe you should focus on how to handle Marilee's online smear campaign."

Alexia's smile faded a little. "You've been reading those posts too, haven't you?"

Waylon nodded. "I saw some of it during a break this morning. Alexia, this isn't some harmless joke. She's clearly trying to destroy you."

"I know," Alexia said, still keeping her calm.

He looked at her steadily, his gaze heavy with meaning.there something you want to say to me?"