Chapter 31: Chapter 31 – Guarding Against Temptation 

Arthur finished a wonderful evening with Claudina that night, and as they said their goodbyes, he realized just how special the night had been. Gazing at Claudina's slightly tired face, Arthur gently suggested, "Why don't you get some rest now?"

"Let's put the events of tonight behind us and let a restful night's sleep restore our peace of mind. I'll see you in the morning, Claudina," Arthur murmured softly before pivoting and heading towards his bedroom.

In the morning, Arthur woke up feeling invigorated, relishing the opportunity to experience life to the fullest. He thought back to the rented room he had been staying in for the past few years and decided that today he would go there to pick up some items he still wanted to keep and some of the possessions his parents had left behind. “I should go there today,” he murmured to himself.

The phone next to his desk flashed, and he realized someone was calling him. "Yes," he replied in a hushed tone after pressing the accept button.

"Mr. Gardner, would you like us to prepare breakfast for two people in your room now?" the woman asked over the phone.

Arthur replied, "Yes, and one more. Do you know when Edna will be returning?"

"Sure thing, Mr. Gardner. She should be back soon, in a few minutes or hours."

"Great, thank you."

After going to the bathroom and taking a cold shower, Arthur felt an invigorated energy course through his body. Coming out, he glanced at his wardrobe and was amazed once again by its completeness. "Wow," he said in amazement.

"I didn't make the wrong choice with Edna," Arthur remarked as he grabbed a training shirt, pants, and a pair of sneakers, intent on going for a short jog before breakfast. Clearly, she had demonstrated her responsibility by carefully purchasing and preparing all the items he needed, from clothes and shoes of the correct sizes.

Arthur stepped out of the room and beheld Claudina perched on the grandiose sofa in the center of the chamber, her attention fixed on the television. Rising to her feet, she cast a smile in Arthur's direction and said, "Good morning, Mr. Arthur."

"Hi, Claudina," Arthur said, walking closer to her. As he approached, he could see the news that was being broadcast on the television. 

"Leo?" he asked, eyes widening as he read the headline about the arrest of Leo, Claudina's former manager. It was reported that he had attempted to auction off her virginity at a charity event the night before.

Claudina whispered, "Yes. Someone has shared the footage from last night and the police were able to arrest Mr. Leo for his actions."

Arthur watched the news more closely, and realized that only Leo had been arrested; no one else, including Harry and Aston who had been there with him, had been apprehended. Especially Arthur, who had kept his identity secret that night. He asked, "Why only Leo?"

"And what about Aston and Harry, or any of the other bidders?" he inquired.

Claudina shook her head in response. "They should have gotten away with it for sure, because at least they possess powers that would put the police in a difficult situation if they were to pursue them. Moreover, Aston even has a network that can mobilize the police whenever he desires."

Arthur clicked his tongue and took a deep breath, his eyes lingering on Claudina, who had changed into a white dress that morning. "I think this is good news for us at least," he said, turning to her. "And does this mean you can also safely return to your work, Claudina? Do you think it's still possible for other people in management to do the same thing Leo did?" he asked.

Claudina smiled warmly and nodded in appreciation. "Yes, Mr. Arthur, I think I can get back to my job. And thank you for all that you have done for me and the advice that you have given me. I will try to be more assertive in the future when I do not agree with certain situations."

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"Good then," Arthur smiled. "I'll drop you off at your place of residence after we have breakfast, okay?"

He added, "I'm going for a morning jog for about half an hour. You can relax here and do whatever you want while I'm gone."

Arthur was just about to turn away when Claudina called out to him. She had one thought that had been bothering her ever since, and she wanted to share it.

"Mr. Arthur," she said, looking back at Arthur. "You have made a generous contribution. I'm sure everyone at the orphanage will be very pleased. I cannot even begin to guess what they will be able to do with such a large sum of money. Rest assured, I'll make sure the funds are used to their maximum potential. I'll appoint a professional to oversee the management and ensure that more orphans can benefit from your donations."

Arthur slowly nodded and smiled, then Claudina continued. "Hmmm, I know the last item at last night's auction didn't get bid," she said, referring to her virginity which had been the last item to be auctioned that evening. She then glanced back at Arthur.

"Are you sure it's enough for me to accompany you to dinner, considering all that you have done for me and the orphanage?" Claudina asked, her voice trembling and her hands shaking as she attempted to control her turbulent emotions.

"I will do anything to repay you for what you have done," she said, lowering her face. "I mean... if you demand that I sleep with you, I will do my best to fulfill your request..."

Claudina gasped as her breath came in short bursts, the sound echoing in the air. Fear, nervousness, and anxiety were all mixed together in her heart. "I've been so stubborn, believing I could do it on my own when you've put your life at risk to help me," she said, opening her eyes. "I'll do it if it will make you happy."

She closed her eyes again, trying to push back the flood of emotions. Arthur had already helped so many orphans like her who now had a chance for a better life. And what she was about to do for him was nothing in comparison.

Although Claudina was still scared, she was attempting to comprehend what the man before her truly desired. He had done so much for her, and beyond any doubt, he would expect something in return, wouldn't he? That tremendous amount of money for just a dinner together sounded like an enormous joke. Did anybody really possess a heart like that? She wondered.

"Claudina," Arthur said softly.

Claudina raised her head and gazed at Arthur, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"You don't need to be afraid. I didn't rescue you from Leo, Harry and Aston with the intention of claiming you for myself. I did it because I couldn't bear the thought of you being so outnumbered and helpless, enduring your predicament with no one to come to your aid."

Arthur smiled warmly, his gaze soft and understanding. “You don't need to give up your beliefs. You can keep them close and cherish them forever.” He paused and then continued, his voice gentle, “I'm sure what you want is to be able to share them with the person you love one day.”

“I hope that you soon find that person.” He said and smiled. “I'll be back in thirty minutes.”

Arthur turned around, leaving Claudina standing motionless. At that moment, the elevator door at the far end of the room opened, and out stepped a young woman in a gray executive suit, complete with a short skirt, high heels, and her blonde hair tied to one side. It was Edna, Arthur's personal assistant. 

"Mr. Gardner," she said, hurrying towards him, "I'm sorry I'm late. I didn't know you needed me, and I wasn't there for you." Her expression shifted upon seeing Claudina, and her blue eyes widened in surprise.

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