After the Affair Falling into a Billionaire's Arms novel Chapter 14

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

Even though Louisa found herself seated at a table filled with experienced professionals, all much older than her, she maintained an air of composure that belied her youth. The only woman present, she radiated confidence, showing no signs of intimidation despite the weight of their collective expertise.

However, Teddy, her colleague, was noticeably anxious.

He cast a furtive glance at Julian, his boss, who sat there exuding an aura of calm authority.

“If you’ve got something on your mind, Teddy, just say it,” Julian urged, his voice steady and encouraging.

Teddy swallowed hard, his mind racing. “I’m not doubting your judgment, Mr. Tudor. I know Ms. Forbes has a stellar reputation—a real business prodigy who made a significant impact at the summit seven years ago. The Capulet Group owes much of its rapid ascent to her.”

He shifted nervously in his seat, the weight of his words hanging in the air. “But she’s still human, like the rest of us, with her own ambitions and interests. And now that the Capulet Group is in the mix for this bid, it’s hard to believe she wouldn’t be swayed in their direction.”

Julian’s expression remained inscrutable as he focused intently on the woman displayed on the screen before them. He observed her unwavering attention to the discussions and the intricate bid documents laid out before her.

His eyes, typically as transparent as glass, seemed to deepen with thought. “Trust the people you hire,” he advised, his tone leaving little room for argument.

When Louisa realized that the Capulet Group was among the bidders, a flicker of surprise crossed her features.

It had been some time since she had been involved with that particular group, and she had no idea they were contending for this project.

Yet, her surprise was fleeting, and she quickly masked her emotions.

Once the bidding meeting concluded, she diligently selected the company she believed would be the best fit for the Tudor Group and made her way to Julian’s temporary office, bid documents in hand.

His desk was already cluttered with thick stacks of proposals, all freshly delivered by the evaluation experts just moments before.

Julian was meticulously sifting through the documents, giving each one his full attention.

Louisa placed her proposal on his desk with a soft thud. “If there’s nothing else, Mr. Tudor, I’ll take my leave,” she said, attempting to maintain her professionalism.

“Hold on a moment,” he replied, not bothering to look up from the file he was reviewing.

With a deliberate motion, he set aside the document in his hands and picked up hers first.

Louisa took a breath and began to explain, “This company, Launch Innovations, is a startup. Technically, they lack the credentials to be involved in the Tudor Group’s project.

“But unlike other firms that merely put on a show, they possess genuine talent.

In terms of BIM technology application and BIPV, they excel, aligning perfectly with what you need for this project, Mr. Tudor. That’s why I chose them.”

Julian remained silent, merely nodding slightly as he continued to read through her proposal.

Teddy, unable to contain his curiosity, interjected, “Ms. Forbes, why didn’t you opt for the Capulet Group?”

Louisa took a moment to consider her response. “The Capulet Group is undoubtedly strong and reliable, but what Mr. Tudor truly requires are exceptionally skilled professionals. Launch Innovations is a startup founded by graduates from specialized fields; they shouldn’t be underestimated.”

As she finished her explanation, she caught Julian’s gaze lingering on her, a look in his eyes that she found difficult to interpret.

“I’m in!” Louisa exclaimed without a moment’s hesitation. “As the project manager!”

Such an incredible opportunity was one she couldn’t let slip away.

In fact, she felt a surge of excitement at the prospect of stepping into the project manager role; it was precisely where she had always aspired to be.

After agreeing, she inquired, “So, should I start at the Tudor Group tomorrow?”

Julian shrugged casually. “No rush.”

His cool demeanor left her with more questions than answers.

As Louisa exited Fortune Tower, she found herself puzzled by Julian’s words. What did he mean by wanting her to work at the Tudor Group but advising her not to rush?

She thought she had seen and experienced enough to understand him, yet his intentions remained elusive.

Sitting in her car, she pulled out her phone, ready to invite a couple of friends for dinner to discuss her newfound opportunity.

But before she could hit send, George’s name flashed on the screen, calling her.

She hesitated, letting the phone ring for a moment, not particularly eager to engage.

Yet, the calls kept coming. On the third attempt, she finally sighed and answered.