After the Affair Falling into a Billionaire's Arms novel Chapter 13

**Clocks Lie To Hearts by Asa River Flint**

George erupted from the room, the door slamming shut with a force that reverberated through the hallway, his expression contorted in a storm of fury.

In stark contrast, Louisa remained unfazed, her demeanor as calm as a still lake.

She took her time preparing an elaborate breakfast, savoring each bite as if it were a small celebration. After relishing her meal, she decided it was the perfect day for a shopping adventure with Flora.

Her new apartment was nearly complete, just needing a few key pieces of furniture to truly feel like home.

Flora, with her flexible schedule, was the ideal companion for a day filled with retail therapy.

For the next several days, their lives revolved around shopping, the thrill of finding the perfect items consuming them.

Today, they found themselves in a home goods store, surrounded by an array of rugs, the air filled with the scent of fresh fabric. As they browsed, the conversation naturally shifted to their careers.

Flora turned to Louisa, curiosity etched on her face. “So, what’s the game plan moving forward?”

Louisa, her fingers dancing over the various sofa options, replied thoughtfully, “I’m not entirely sure yet. I haven’t really stumbled upon the right opportunity. I think I’ll just wait it out. Maybe the headhunters will surprise me with something worthwhile.”

Flora nodded in agreement, her expression understanding. “That makes sense. You’ve been hustling for so long. There’s no need to rush into anything. Use this time to relax, explore what’s out there, and wait for the perfect fit to come along.”

Louisa mirrored her nod, appreciating the support.

After some deliberation, they finally settled on a sofa. Louisa pointed to a cream-colored set and turned to the salesperson, “I’ll take this one. I’ll provide you with the delivery address.”

“Absolutely,” the salesperson replied with a smile, taking her card and handing her a small notebook. “Could you please write down the delivery address?”

Louisa accepted it and began jotting down the details. Just then, her phone vibrated in her pocket.

She glanced at the screen and saw Julian’s name flashing.

Ever since their awkward conversation a few days ago, they hadn’t exchanged a single word.

Fortunately, she had managed to find designer Evelyn, who fortuitously had Julian’s measurements on file since he frequented her shop. She had arranged for a suit to be custom-made for him, intending to send it to the Tudor Group to avoid any uncomfortable encounters.

Now, she hadn’t anticipated his sudden call.

After a brief moment of hesitation, she answered, “Mr. Tudor.”

Julian’s voice came through, smooth and commanding, “Can you swing by Fortune Tower?”

Louisa felt a jolt of surprise.

Why was he reaching out all of a sudden? Did he require something from her?

Despite the complexities of their past, she had no reservations about the man who had once saved her life, so she instinctively replied, “I can be there in fifteen minutes.”

“No rush. Just make sure you arrive safely. I’ll text you the address.”

His deep, velvety voice carried a hint of amusement, a magnetic charm that lingered in her ears long after the call ended.

She nodded politely before hanging up.

Flora, who had been eavesdropping shamelessly, couldn’t contain her excitement. “Mr. Tudor’s voice is so smooth and pleasant. He even told you to be safe. Come on, spill it! What’s going on between you two?”

Louisa rolled her eyes playfully. “What could possibly be going on? Have you been single for so long that you’re seeing sparks everywhere?”

Not wanting to dwell on it, she finished writing the address and turned to Flora, “You know my home’s passcode. Could you take the delivery there? I’ll treat you to dinner tonight.”

“Okay, okay! Go on!” Flora beamed back, her excitement palpable.

Louisa navigated her way to Fortune Tower, the GPS guiding her through the bustling city. Upon arriving, she stepped into the elevator, which whisked her up to the 22nd floor.

As she emerged, she was taken aback by the vibrant scene around her, filled with familiar faces and the hum of activity.

Louisa was momentarily taken aback by his forthrightness, her mind racing. “But I’m not part of the Tudor Group.”

“That doesn’t matter,” he replied nonchalantly, his confidence unwavering.

Louisa found herself at a loss for words.

After all, he was the boss, and his word was law.

Moreover, she still owed him for saving her life, so she refrained from arguing further.

She picked up the project proposal, her curiosity piqued, and began to read it intently.

The document was succinct and clear, and she finished it in under ten minutes.

Closing the proposal, she shifted into work mode, asking, “When does the bidding conference start?”

Julian glanced at his watch, “In fifteen minutes. You have plenty of time.”

“I’ll go prepare now,” she interjected, eager to leave the tension-filled atmosphere.

Unsure of what he might say next, she felt a knot of anxiety in her stomach. She worried he might bring up the awkward incident from their last encounter, so she decided to take the initiative.

Choosing the best company to partner with the Tudor Group would not only repay his kindness but also alleviate any pressure she felt afterward.

Julian watched her hurried exit, a faint, enigmatic smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Moments later, Teddy entered the room, carrying two steaming cups of coffee. Upon noticing that Louisa was gone, he paused, confusion etched on his face. “Where’s Ms. Forbes?”

Julian picked up a remote and activated a screen that displayed the conference hall. Louisa’s figure soon appeared, confidently striding toward the bidding table and taking her seat.

The bidding conference was about to begin.