Chapter 207 Do You Like Me?

Elizabeth froze when Alice mentioned Raymond's gaze. But after a moment, she couldn't remember anything odd about it.

"You're mistaken. We're just friends who care about each other. Raymond has helped me a lot, so he's more than just an ordinary friend."

Alice smiled knowingly at her words.

"That's how you see it, but how do you know he hasn't fallen for you?"

Elizabeth was at a loss for words. She really didn't know what Raymond was thinking; she was just guessing. Alice's words planted a seed of doubt in her mind.

Reflecting on their past, Elizabeth recalled how considerate Raymond had been towards her since their very first meeting. Even when the Perez Group was in crisis and many were kicking them while they were down, Raymond convinced Lester to help her out. Not many friends would go to such lengths, especially after knowing each other for such a short time.

The more Elizabeth thought about it, the more suspicious she became. Recalling Raymond's recent probing questions, she fell silent.

Seeing her expression, Alice hugged her excitedly.

"Who would've thought? Besides Matthew, Mr. Carter likes you too!"

Alice didn't know about the recent issues with Nova. Elizabeth shook her head nonchalantly, continuing to deny it.

"Don't overthink it. Raymond has plenty of women around him. He's a playboy; why would he be interested in me?"

Alice immediately suggested, "Why don't we test it? The result will be clear. If I'm wrong, you can pick any gift you want from the mall."

Elizabeth, curious despite herself, was about to refuse. But thinking about the complicated situation between Matthew and Nova, she inexplicably agreed.

"Alright, if I lose, you can pick whatever you want."

Alice grinned and took Elizabeth's phone.

"I'll send him a message pretending to be you. Just wait and see."

Alice spent two minutes crafting a message, then put the phone on silent and handed it back to Elizabeth.

"He'll definitely come over. To avoid any awkwardness, I'll hide nearby. Remember, don't answer his calls or texts. I'm looking forward to my gift!"

Alice happily ran off to hide in the bushes, leaving Elizabeth holding her phone, feeling helpless. The game seemed childish, but she was curious about what Alice had sent.

Just as she was about to check, Alice's warning cough stopped her.

Raymond had left a while ago and should have been out of the park by now. But less than two minutes after the message was sent, Elizabeth saw his familiar figure running towards her. He was sprinting against the flow of people, not caring about his appearance.

The first thing Raymond did when he reached her was to grab her shoulders, worried.

"Are you okay? You said you weren't feeling well. How are you now? Do you need to go to the hospital?"

Elizabeth, realizing what was happening, bit her lip and looked down, not speaking. She checked her phone and saw that Alice had only sent a few simple words. Yet Raymond had rushed back as fast as he could.

He was still breathing heavily, sweat glistening on his forehead, his handsome face full of concern. Meeting his eyes, Elizabeth forced a smile, knowing she had lost the bet with Alice.

"I'm fine now."

Raymond still looked worried.

"I know you're upset, but is it worth affecting your health and emotions over someone who doesn't deserve it?"

Alice, hiding in the bushes, sensed there were more secrets between them and quietly left.

Hearing Alice leave, Elizabeth couldn't hold back any longer and directly asked Raymond, "Raymond, do you like me?"

The scene seemed to freeze for a moment. Raymond's mind exploded with a mix of emotions. The sudden tension made him avoid her gaze, forcing a lighthearted smile.

"We're friends. Why would you think that?"

He clenched his fists, his palms sweaty. He was shocked that Elizabeth had figured it out and asked so bluntly. But there was no time to dwell on it. To avoid a failed confession and losing their friendship, Raymond denied it.

"If I liked you, I would've made a move when your relationship with Matthew was unstable. Why wait until now?"

Elizabeth felt relieved hearing his words. After all, Raymond was Lester's son. If he wanted something, he wouldn't hold back.

This way, they could remain friends, which was fine by her. She patted his shoulder and smiled reassuringly.

"I knew it. As you can see, being with me doesn't end well for anyone. I consider you a friend and don't want to waste your time. Friendship is stronger than romance. Thanks for the heads-up today. I'll treat you to dinner sometime."

Raymond felt a pang of sadness, looking at her hand on his shoulder. Was friendship all they could have? Did she really never have feelings for him?

His heart felt shattered, but he forced a smile and nodded. "Okay."