Louisa’s mind drifted back to the documents she’d seen at the office tonight.
She hadn’t been lying to Teresa–Julian definitely had his own ideas about the Tudor Group’s perfume project. But what exactly was he thinking?
She couldn’t figure it out, so she kept staring at him, lost in thought.
She didn’t even notice when Julian ended his call and turned his attention to her, while she continued to furrow her brow occasionally.
“Ms. Forbes, what are you overthinking now?” Julian asked irritably.
I’m wondering what you’re thinking,‘ she replied without hesitation.
Julian hadn’t expected that answer. He paused, his tone softening, “And have you figured it out?”
“No.”
She’d never been able to figure out what he had in mind.
Julian smiled. “Well, tell me what’s on your mind, and I’ll help you work through it.”
Louisa remained silent. She couldn’t even make sense of it herself, didn’t even know how to ask, so she ultimately decided to say nothing.
“Louisa, I heard the Oakridge Commons property sold first thing this morning,” Teddy turned to speak to her. “Impressive! Something nobody else could accomplish, and you managed it in such a short time.”
Louisa beamed. “Of course! Don’t you know who I am? I’m not just anybody.”
‘Yes, yes, Ms. Forbes is certainly not just anybody.” Teddy nodded repeatedly. “Mind sharing your secret with me?”
“It’s nothing special, let me tell you.” She was generous with her knowledge.
And so, one leaned forward, bringing his head closer, while the other turned and pulled back slightly.
Their heads huddled together in conversation, completely ignoring Bob and Julian.
Julian watched their heads together, finding it strangely irritating. He reached out, pressing the back of his hand against Louisa’s forehead and gently pushing her back.
“Mr. Tudor, what’s wrong?” Louisa looked at him, confused.
“Sit properly.” Julian’s expression remained neutral.
“Oh.” She didn’t think anything of it and obediently sat up straight.
Teddy wasn’t so lucky. Meeting his boss’s cool gaze, he chuckled nervously and quickly straightened up too.
The atmosphere in the car remained quiet for most of the return journey.
1/3
18:11 Wed, Dec 31 M
Chapter 180
As they approached Cozy Community, Teddy suddenly spoke up, “Ms. Forbes, tomorrow’s Saturday. I’ve taken the day off, but remember you’re traveling with the CEO. It’s a two–day, one–night trip, so be sure to pack your essentials.”
“What?” Louisa cried out in shock. “We’re staying overnight?”
Why hadn’t Teddy mentioned yesterday that this trip involved an overnight stay?
Teddy grinned at her, looking like he’d successfully executed some scheme.
Julian, appearing unbothered, continued typing with his elegant fingers, his tone casual. “What’s wrong with staying overnight? Are you that excited about
it?”
Louisa didn’t know how to respond. She was horrified, not excited!
But the car had entered the garage, and Teddy jumped out and disappeared with Bob.
They both used to live with Julian, yet at some point, they’d silently agreed not to stay at Julian’s place anymore.
Julian closed his laptop and, getting out of the car, glanced at the shell–shocked Louisa. “Ms. Forbes, are you planning to spend the night in the car instead of going home?”
Louisa said nothing. She dejectedly got out of the car.
“You’re that opposed to traveling with me? Fine, you don’t have to go,” Julian said coolly.
Louisa, startled, almost asked–really? But when she looked up and met his cool gaze, she felt the full weight of his authority.
The words died on her lips, and she forced a smile. “How can you say that, Mr. Tudor? Of course I want to go.”
Julian didn’t bother responding.
Louisa was internally freaking out. She couldn’t understand it herself–in the office, she could make decisive calls and unravel every scheme, but now she felt completely lost. Around Julian, she became frustratingly timid.
She kept her head down the entire way.
When they reached her door, Julian suddenly raised his hand and lightly flicked her forehead.
“What was that for?” she looked up at him.
‘Nothing. Just reminding you to get some sleep.”
Louisa fell silent. The truth was, she didn’t actually mind traveling with him. In fact, most of the time she felt quite comfortable in his presence.
But it was precisely that comfort that often made her forget her position. Before she knew it, his words would influence her, and she’d say or do things. without thinking.
That feeling of losing control unnerved her. Which is why she avoided being alone with him.
But he was her boss–a boss who had saved her life, no less. What could she do?
2/3
18:12 Wed, Dec 31 M
Chapter 180
Back home, after a quick meal and getting ready for bed, she began packing for the trip. That’s when Sadie called.
She answered, put it on speaker, tossed the phone on the couch, and continued packing while talking to Sadie.
“What are you doing?‘ Hearing her listless voice and the clattering sounds, Sadie asked.
“Packing. I have to go on a business trip with Julian tomorrow.”
“How thrilling!” Especially after hearing it was a two–day, one–night trip, Sadie grew even more excited. “A man and woman alone together–you should definitely make the most of this opportunity.”
“What opportunity? I’m being forced to go on this trip,” Louisa protested. “Besides, I’m going for work, not to share a room with him. Don’t be ridiculous.”
“That’s where you’re wrong,” Sadie replied. “Going on a trip with your boss–and not just any boss, but Julian! He’s handsome, wealthy, and charming. So many women would kill for this chance, and you’re complaining?”
“I’m not complaining, I’m just… I’m…” Louisa said.
“You’re what?‘ Sadie asked curiously.
Louisa steeled herself and finally confessed, “I accidentally kissed him this morning. Isn’t that awkward?”
“What? You kissed him?” Sadie grew even more excited. “Quick, tell me! How did that kiss feel?”
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Lucia Morh is a passionate storyteller who brings emotions to life through her words. When she’s not writing, she finds peace nurturing her garden.

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