After the Affair Falling into a Billionaire's Arms novel Chapter 171

Julian’s words froze Teddy in his tracks.

He turned around to face his boss’s flawlessly handsome face. “Mr. Tudor,” he stammered, his phone nearly slipping from his grasp.

Julian gave him a coolly neutral look, then walked to his chair, sat down, and picked up his water glass. He took a deliberately slow sip.

For Teddy, each second felt like torture.

Only after finishing his water did Julian casually glance at the name on the phone screen.

“Mr. Young, you seem quite knowledgeable on this subject,” he remarked with deliberate slowness. “Perhaps you’d like to discuss this opportunity with me in

person?”

Teddy was on the verge of panic. On the other end of the line, Louisa was equally mortified.

How could someone as clever as Teddy badmouth his boss while still in the office?

This wasn’t her problem. She was about to hang up when Julian, as if anticipating her move, added, “Mr. Young, the call isn’t over yet. While you have Ms. Forbes on the line, tell her there’s a dinner engagement tonight. She’ll be joining me.”

Teddy realized his boss was offering him a way out. Nearly overcome with gratitude, he quickly picked up the phone. “Ms. Forbes, did you hear what the CEO

said?”

Now it was Louisa’s turn to panic.

Unaware that Julian had instructed Teddy to put the call on speaker, she attempted to excuse herself. “Surely a team leader like me isn’t important enough to attend the CEO’s dinner? Perhaps I could ask Ms. Hughes to go instead?”

Teddy was screaming internally, ‘Why can’t you two just talk directly? Why am I stuck in the middle?

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Julian’s eyes turned cold when he heard her mention Teresa, though his voice remained perfectly pleasant. “You misunderstand, Ms. Forbes. I need you there

to drink in my place.”

The implication was clear: he wouldn’t subject Teresa to that, but Louisa was expendable enough to handle a few drinks.

Louisa was speechless.

Julian held out his hand to Teddy, who quickly surrendered the phone.

Turning off the speaker, Julian held the phone to his ear. His voice was its usual cool, composed self. “Do you have any other questions?”

Louisa hesitated. She had a sensitive stomach and couldn’t handle strong alcohol, especially the kind typically served at business dinners.

But what was the point of mentioning that? Would it make any difference?

She swallowed her concerns. “Yes, Mr. Tudor. I understand. Please have Mr. Young send me the time and location, and I’ll be there promptly.”

Without waiting for Julian’s response, she ended the call.

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Chapter 171

Julian’s expression darkened. She was upset? Wasn’t she the one trying to push him toward Teresa?

After hanging up, Louisa felt an unexpected pang in her chest.

Teresa had it all–someone who cherished her, someone who cared. While Louisa herself was just another worker bee, sacrificing for the corporate machine.

Even her ex–husband had abandoned her at business dinners despite knowing about her stomach condition.

She could hardly expect better treatment from Julian, who had no real connection to her. She’d have to find her own way to manage tonight.

Quickly composing herself, Louisa pushed these thoughts aside. She contacted Rachel to confirm their meeting time and headed out without stopping for

lunch.

They met at the ‘Oakridge Commons‘ model home.

Rachel, a consummate professional, brought her complete photography kit and captured all the necessary footage in less than an hour.

Afterward, they settled in a nearby café for afternoon tea and editing.

“Seriously, Rachel said, confused, “is the Tudor Group so strapped for cash they can’t afford proper marketing? Why rope me into free promotional work?”

Louisa sighed. “I’m walking on eggshells at Tudor Group, facing restrictions at every turn. I couldn’t meet the deadline without outside help, and you’re the

only one I trust.”

Rachel gave her a wry smile. “So I should be grateful that the esteemed Ms. Forbes trusts me?”

“Spare me the gratitude,” Louisa replied flatly.

“What’s going on with you?” Rachel asked. “You seem deflated. Trouble at Tudor Group? Is Mr. Tudor not looking out for you?”

“Why would he look out for me? I don’t need his protection.” Before Rachel could respond, Louisa cut her off. “Enough chatter. Let’s focus on work.”

“Yes, Ms. Forbes!” Rachel saluted mockingly.

They worked mostly in silence after that. Despite Rachel’s carefree demeanor, her professional skills were impeccable.

In just one afternoon, she had shot, edited, and finalized an entire promotional video series.

Louisa was genuinely impressed with the final product. “You truly deserve your reputation. This is exceptional work.”

‘Of course it is. Did you expect anything less?” Rachel preened.

“Thank you. Sincerely,” Louisa said.

Finding no issues with the videos, Louisa sent them to Marlee with a message: [Distribute these to all platforms according to our previous plan.Į

Rachel began packing her equipment. “Can we go now? You can drive me back and reclaim your car.”

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Chapter 171

Louisa checked her watch–it was already six o’clock. She had just half an hour to meet Julian.

“I won’t be taking the car tonight, she told Rachel. “I’ll be drinking. Could you drop me at Dreamscape Club instead?”

“Sure thing!”

They gathered their belongings and left the café, As they approached Rachel’s car, a black Maybach pulled up beside them.

The passenger window rolled down, revealing Teddy’s smiling face.

“Mr. Young? Louisa said, surprised.

The car contained not just Teddy but also Bob the driver and Julian in the back seat. A cool aura emanated from the open window.

Louisa instinctively glanced toward Julian.

He was looking at his phone, presumably reviewing documents, and didn’t even acknowledge her presence.

Teddy smiled brightly. “Ms. Forbes, please get in. We’ll go together.”

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