The Love I Begged For Was Never Real novel Chapter 48

Now, treating her as a total equal, Julian Pierce was personally handing her the ticket in.

Professor Lawrence chimed in to encourage her.

"Nora, you should go. You can't create great work in a vacuum. Rubbing shoulders with these top-tier collectors and getting a feel for the international market will be huge for your work on The Cardiven Project. A personal invitation from Mr. Pierce is a rare opportunity."

Nora weighed the pros and cons. She did need a broader network and better resources to survive in this industry.

She raised her hands and took the envelope. Its edge brushed against Julian's long fingers, transferring a brief trace of warmth.

"Thank you for the invitation, Mr. Pierce. I'll be there."

Nora accepted the envelope, giving him a definitive answer.

The smile in Julian's eyes instantly widened, bringing a vivid joy to his otherwise reserved demeanor.

"I'll have my team email you the itinerary in advance."

Julian withdrew his hand, naturally adjusting his suit jacket. "It's getting late, so I won't keep you from heading back. Ms. Xavier, Professor, I'll see you next weekend."

"Take care, Julian," Professor Lawrence nodded with a smile.

Julian turned and walked toward the hotel's revolving glass doors with his assistant trailing behind. A valet had already pulled a black Maybach up to the steps. The assistant hurried forward to open the rear door, and Julian slid into the back seat.

The door clicked shut, and the sleek black sedan smoothly departed the drop-off zone, quickly blending into the endless stream of city traffic.

Janie watched the car until it was out of sight, finally unable to contain her excitement. She grabbed Nora's arm, stomping her feet in absolute thrill.

"Nora! Did you see the way he looked at you? He couldn't take his eyes off you the entire time!"

Janie only grew more animated, her face flushed with excitement. "He's gorgeous, sweet, and knows how to treat a woman with respect. You couldn't find a catch like him if you searched the world with a spotlight!"

The professor's meaningful words, paired with his serious expression, sounded completely different to Janie's ears.

Janie winked at Nora, mouthing the words, *See? Even Arthur sees it.*

Nora looked down at the dark blue envelope in her hand. The textured paper and gold-stamped lettering glinted under the lobby lights. She had to admit, there was an undeniable, irresistible charm about Julian Pierce's thoughtfulness.

Professor Lawrence walked ahead and called back over his shoulder.

"What are you two waiting for? The driver is already outside."

"Coming!" Janie chirped brightly, clutching her folders as she jogged to catch up.

Nora carefully tucked the envelope bearing Julian's personal seal into her handbag.

She looked up, took in the deep night sky beyond the lobby, and stepped toward the revolving doors.