The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 149

Mr. Miller, a sharp, sophisticated man in his forties, chuckled in approval. "Indeed. Julian is a star in the legal community. The fact that St. Claire Partners is trusting us to handle all their non-litigation support for the Southwest region is a massive opportunity. Julian specifically requested that you be the lead point of contact. Since you two go way back, the synergy should be excellent."

"Me? Lead the account for... Julian's firm?" Madeline's heart skipped a beat. This wasn't just a massive account; she would be reporting directly to Julian! She forced down her excitement, maintaining her professional composure. "I won't let you or Julian down, Mr. Miller. I'll give it everything I have."

Julian watched the sparkle in her eyes and the way she straightened her posture. His smile deepened, the gaze behind his glasses warm and appreciative. "I've heard great things about your work, Madeline. Leaving this region in your hands puts me at ease. I'll likely be bothering you quite a bit from now on."

"It's no bother at all!" Madeline blurted out, then felt a rush of heat in her cheeks, realizing she sounded a bit too eager. "I mean... it's my job. I'm happy to help."

The rest of the meeting flowed incredibly smoothly, buoyed by their shared history. Julian showcased exactly why he was a top-tier partner—his logic was flawless, his demands were precise, and he anticipated every angle. Madeline quickly found her rhythm. Drawing on her expertise and knowledge of the Southwest market, she offered several practical amendments that earned immediate praise from both Julian and Mr. Miller. Sitting there, listening to Julian's deep, articulate voice map out his strategy, she occasionally caught his eye and saw the genuine admiration there. It sent a flutter of butterflies through her stomach.

The meeting concluded on a high note, with the core framework secured. Mr. Miller excused himself for another appointment. As Julian gathered his documents, he looked at Madeline casually, his tone shifting back to that of a friendly older classmate. "Well, it looks like we'll be seeing a lot of each other. We barely had time to talk the other night. Are you free for dinner? Consider it a chance to catch up properly and celebrate our new partnership."

His invitation was perfectly natural, making it impossible to refuse. Madeline's heart raced, and she nodded almost instantly. "I'd love to! I'm completely free tonight. Any excuse to pick your brain is fine by me." She smiled, her eyes curving into bright crescents.

Julian gave a low, magnetic laugh. "Then it's a date. I know a great private restaurant nearby. It's quiet, and the food should be exactly what you like. I'll come find you at your desk when you're off the clock?"

"Sounds perfect!" Madeline nodded emphatically, already counting down the minutes until their dinner.