After the Affair Falling into a Billionaire's Arms novel Chapter 31

**Clocks Lie To Hearts by Asa River Flint**
**Chapter 31**

At the very top of the disheveled heap lay the battered book, its spine a mere shadow of its former self.

The pages, already delicate and frail, were now a chaotic jumble, the cover splintered into multiple fragments and hastily mended with strips of tape, a makeshift solution that did little to hide the damage.

Julian cast a casual glance at the book, his expression unreadable. “Nice job with the tape,” he remarked, his tone almost teasing, yet devoid of warmth.

With that, he turned his attention away, elegantly slicing into his steak as if the book were nothing more than a triviality.

Louisa, resigned to the weight of her own disappointment, remained silent, her heart racing as she grappled with the enormity of the situation.

Was that really all he had to say?

Feeling a surge of urgency, she quickly added, “Some of the text was unreadable, so I did my best to reconstruct the content and hand-copied the entire book for easier reading.”

“Very meticulous,” he acknowledged, his voice cool and detached.

Each word felt like a dagger to her pride. Louisa couldn’t muster the courage to meet his gaze, her cheeks burning with shame. If she had truly been meticulous, the book wouldn’t have ended up in such a ruinous state in the first place.

A centuries-old rare book, reduced to shreds by her own careless hands. And yet, here was Julian, so composed, so unperturbed.

To her surprise, Julian’s gaze shifted to her hands, which had once been smooth and graceful but were now adorned with several band-aids, a stark reminder of her clumsiness.

His usually indifferent eyes darkened slightly, a flicker of concern breaking through his stoic facade. “It’s just a book. No need to hurt yourself over it. And don’t think you can skip work because of a few cuts. You’re coming on the business trip with me tomorrow.” His voice held a chill, layered with an unmistakable authority that brooked no argument.

Louisa blinked, momentarily stunned by his words. “Business trip?”

“Not willing?” he pressed, raising an eyebrow, as if challenging her.

“Of course, I am!” she replied, her voice firm and unwavering, as if asserting her independence.

Julian looked at her with a hint of surprise. “You’re that happy to work?” A subtle smile danced at the corners of his lips, an indulgent glimmer in his tone.

Louisa, caught up in her own thoughts, didn’t register the nuance in his expression. She simply nodded, determination flooding her. “I’ll work hard.”

The truth was, she longed to escape the confines of her home, to immerse herself in work rather than face George day in and day out.

Julian nodded, a decisive gesture. “Send your ID info to Teddy so he can book your flight. We’ll meet at the airport at 7:45 AM.”

Louisa agreed without a moment’s hesitation, relief washing over her.

As dinner came to a close and they prepared to part ways, Julian took the hand-copied book with him, leaving the torn original behind. “The hand-copied version is complete, and therefore more valuable,” he stated matter-of-factly, as if the logic were self-evident.

Louisa frowned, perplexed. How could he deem the reconstructed version more valuable than the ancient, albeit damaged, book?

She shook her head, deciding not to dwell on it further.

Once home, she began to pack for the trip, her mind racing with anticipation. Most of her belongings had already been relocated, so all that remained were a few articles of clothing, toiletries, and essential documents—easy enough to gather.

In less than ten minutes, her suitcase was ready, neatly organized and compact.

When George returned, he was carrying a selection of her favorite snacks, a peace offering of sorts. He had envisioned a heartfelt conversation to bridge the growing chasm between them, but he was taken aback to see her zipping up her suitcase.

His brow furrowed in confusion. “I thought your trip was canceled?”

“It was,” she replied coolly, her tone leaving no room for further inquiry.

“Then why are you packing?”

“Business trip,” she stated, her voice steady.

She pushed him away gently, her voice firm. “I get it. Let go; I need to rest.”

George, believing her anger had subsided, released her. “Which company did you join? I’ll handle your resignation.”

“I’m not quitting,” she replied, her tone resolute.

His expression, which had briefly softened, tightened once more. “We agreed you could come back to the Capulet Group anytime. Why…”

Suddenly, a memory struck him—her recent interactions with Julian.

His eyes narrowed as he studied her. “Is it the Tudor Group? Are you going on a trip with Julian tomorrow?”

Louisa remained silent, her lack of response speaking volumes.

George’s voice rose in frustration. “You’re not going! I don’t agree!”

“Whether you agree or not, I’m going!”

“Louisa!” he roared, his anger boiling over.

But she was resolute, standing firm in her decision.

George stared at her for what felt like an eternity, his jaw clenched in frustration. Finally, he nodded, his teeth grinding together. “Fine, try it. Let’s see if you can.”

“George…”

Realizing the tension in the air, she rushed forward, but he was quicker, snatching her phone and locking the door from the outside.

Louisa’s fury erupted, her fists pounding against the door. “George, open the door! Open it now!”