After the Affair Falling into a Billionaire's Arms novel Chapter 179

Chapter 179

Despite their differences, Louisa harbored no ill will toward Teresa unless provoked. She gestured to a chair. “Please, have a seat.”

After Teresa sat down, Louisa asked Marlee to bring in two cups of coffee.

Teresa offered a practiced smile. “I hear units at Oakridge Commons are selling. Congratulations on your achievement, Ms. Forbes.”

“Thank you,” Louisa replied courteously, certain that gratitude wasn’t Teresa’s real purpose for visiting.

Still, she wouldn’t press the issue if Teresa chose not to reveal it.

After a moment’s hesitation, Teresa continued, “Your abilities are clear to everyone now, Ms. Forbes. I’ve come specifically to seek your advice.

“The company is planning to enter the perfume industry. Our kind–hearted Mr. Tudor doesn’t want to monopolize the market and intends to share this

opportunity.

“Could you review these options and suggest which company would be the better partner?”

She handed over three folders.

Opening them, Louisa was startled. One contained Tudor Group’s own project proposal, while the other two contained information about perfume projects from two companies: George’s Capulet Group and Flora’s family business, the Young Group.

Louisa immediately recognized Teresa’s trap.

When leaving Capulet Group, Louisa had known George planned to develop perfume products. As for Young Group, they had always specialized in

fragrances.

By presenting these two options, Teresa was deliberately setting a trap.

If Louisa chose Capulet Group, Teresa would spread rumors that she still had inappropriate ties to George, potentially damaging Tudor Group and ruining

Louisa’s friendship with Flora.

If she chose Young Group, she would openly antagonize George, who would undoubtedly cause problems for her.

Most importantly, regardless of her choice, Louisa would be accused of abusing her position for personal interests.

Teresa had calculated everything perfectly.

“We think highly of both companies,” Teresa continued with a deceptive smile. “Young Group has expertise in perfumes, while Capulet Group only entered

the industry in the last two years.

‘However, Capulet Group’s capabilities exceed Young Group’s, and they’ve been gaining momentum recently.

I’m somewhat inclined toward Capulet Group, but I’m torn. That’s why I wanted your opinion.”

Having seen through Teresa’s scheme, Louisa had no intention of falling into it. ‘If you’re undecided, Ms. Hughes, why not ask Mr. Tudor directly? As a mere team leader, I hardly have the authority to influence your decisions.”

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“This isn’t about authority, Teresa insisted. “We’re all working for Tudor Group’s benefit. There’s no need to be so formal. We’re just having a discussion-

please, speak freely.

Since Teresa was determined to get an answer, Louisa nodded and pointed to Tudor Group’s project proposal. “Ms. Hughes, look at this. This proposal was submitted late last year, around when Mr. Tudor had just taken over Tudor Group, correct?”

“That’s right, Teresa confirmed.

“So Mr. Tudor couldn’t have overlooked this project. Yet for six months, he’s neither rejected nor approved it. This suggests he has his own considerations

and hasn’t decided how to proceed.

“Rather than troubling yourself, perhaps you should simply ask Mr. Tudor directly.”

Teresa was speechless, her expression darkening.

These details had escaped her notice. She had thought she was setting a trap for Louisa, but Louisa had not only avoided it but had also managed to

embarrass her in the process.

Unable to accept defeat, Teresa forced a condescending smile. “You’re quite skilled at guessing what the leadership is thinking, Ms. Forbes. Impressive.”

Her tone dripped with sarcasm.

Louisa smiled serenely. “You flatter me, Ms. Hughes. But I believe anticipating a leader’s thoughts is a skill every employee should cultivate. It’s certainly better than being unable to read them at all, wouldn’t you agree?”

The pointed counter was delivered with effortless grace.

Fuming, Teresa stormed out, forgetting to take the three folders with her.

Dismissing Teresa from her thoughts, Louisa picked up the Young Group’s file again.

As she read, her brow furrowed. She searched online for additional information, then quickly reached for her phone to call Flora.

There was no answer.

Could something be wrong?

Concerned, Louisa called Sadie instead.

Sadie answered promptly. “Louisa, what’s up?”

“Have you been in contact with Flora recently?” Louisa asked.

“Three or four days ago, but not since then. Why?”

“I just saw some data on Young Group. Their business volume has been declining, several executives have been dismissed, and their performance is poor. The company seems to be in trouble, so I’m worried about Flora.”

‘That explains why she seemed down when I last saw her–listless and distracted. But this shouldn’t affect her too much, right? She’s separated from Young Group and has her own studio. Young Group’s problems shouldn’t reflect on her.”

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‘Let’s hope so. If you talk to her, please keep an eye out and let me know if anything seems wrong

“Will do.”

After ending the call, Louisa remained in her office for a while before leaving work.

By the time Louisa left the building, it was nearly nine o’clock.

Rain had started falling unexpectedly. Without an umbrella, she stood under the shelter of the entrance, trying to hail a ride while staying dry.

On rainy nights, ride–sharing services were difficult to secure, and over twenty people were already waiting in line ahead of her.

As she waited impatiently, a familiar car pulled up in front of her–Julian’s vehicle.

Teddy, sitting in the passenger seat, lowered the window. “Ms. Forbes, hop in. We’re heading back too.”

“I don’t want to impose,” she replied, glancing at Julian in the back seat. She already felt awkward about repeatedly accepting rides.

Teddy smiled. “There’s nothing to feel awkward about. You’ve been working late for the company, and Mr. Tudor doesn’t mind giving you a lift. Besides, it’s not going out of our way–we’re all going to the same place.”

“Thank you, then.”

Louisa got into the car.

Julian was on a phone call, so she didn’t greet him.

Teddy handed her a clean towel. “Here, dry yourself off.”

“Thanks.

As she wiped the rainwater from her hair and clothes, Julian’s pleasant voice speaking on the phone/drifted to her ears.

Her movements slowed as she turned to look at him.

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