Obedience No More He's the One I Deserved novel Chapter 266

Dawn shook her head, her voice low. "People only stay close when there's something they both get from it. I don't think you're pathetic, Janice. I just don't want you to get hurt."

That was all—just concern from a friend.

Janice gave a soft laugh. "Don't worry. I know how to take care of myself."

She understood men. She also knew exactly what she wanted.

Even if it came with a price—she was willing to pay it.

After they hung up, Dawn sat there, feeling conflicted.

She stared blankly at the floor, not even noticing when Ethan came back from washing up.

A gentle kiss brushed the back of her neck. She barely reacted—until his teeth grazed her lips, making her flinch with a soft hiss.

He stopped, his eyes searching hers. "What's wrong, huh?"

They were sitting face-to-face. Dawn's arms were loosely around his neck.

She shook her head. Janice's situation wasn't something she could talk about.

Even so, Ethan seemed to guess what was on her mind. He leaned his forehead against hers, kissing her gently as he spoke in a low voice. "People all want different things. Some chase money, some chase power. Some want passion. Some want peace. Right?"

Dawn nodded.

"So don't stress over someone else's choices. As a friend, help when you can—but the rest is up to her."

Dawn looked up at him, her eyes bright. The sight made his stomach tighten.

"I get it," she whispered. "I'll try to stay calm and—ah ... "

Before she could finish, he pushed her back onto the bed. His handsome face hovered close, his eyes tinged with red. His voice was low, rough, and almost teasing. "Then how about we focus now? Hmm?"

A shiver ran through her chest.

She stared at him for a few seconds, then lifted her arms—and pulled him down.

"Okay."

The word barely left her mouth before his kisses deepened, one after another.

Outside, the night sky faded into deep blue, a few faint stars flickering like they were humming a soft love song.

When Dawn woke up, Ethan had already left.

She had breakfast as usual and went to the office.

Today, she was meeting a traditional craftsman.

Everyone else was busy, so it was just Dawn and Janice going.

Dawn and Janice exchanged a glance. This must be Margareth herself.

Dawn hid her surprise, lowering her body politely.

"Hello, Margareth. We have a series of accessories inspired by traditional designs, and we'd like you to make them by hand. If you have time, we'd love to discuss it with you."

As soon as Margareth heard this, she waved her hand. "No, no, no. I haven't done this in ages!"

Dawn and Janice were practically pushed out the door. Margareth slammed it shut, her impatient voice carrying from inside.

"I don't have time for that stuff anymore! Don't bother me!"

This was completely unexpected. Dawn and Janice froze for a moment.

"What do we do?" Janice looked around. There was no one in the alley. "We can't just turn back now, right?"

Dawn pursed her lips, thinking for a moment. "Of course not."

"So ... what now?"

They exchanged a look and immediately understood each other.

The town didn't have any hotels—only two guesthouses and one small inn. They walked in, and at the front desk, the innkeeper was dozing off in the back.