Who’s the Dog Now? novel Chapter 177

At the studio.

The team was supposed to pull an all-nighter to fix a bug, and Naomi had said she'd join them since she was free.

To keep morale high, they had ordered a feast of food and even brought in some board games for when people needed a break.

Everything was ready, but after waiting for a while, Naomi sent a message to the group chat saying something had come up and she couldn't make it.

Everyone was a bit disappointed, but with the rest of the team there, it wasn't a huge deal.

Only Steven sensed something was amiss. He made an excuse and slipped into the boss' office.

Sure enough, Lennon was already packing up.

"Not going to wait a little longer? What if Naomi finishes up and has time to come over?"

Steven wasn't the first person at the studio to notice Lennon's feelings for Naomi.

But he was definitely the most surprised.

He had known Lennon for years and had no idea he was harboring such a deep secret.

While everyone else was busy shipping them, Steven was thinking about the more practical problems.

He knew Lennon was an illegitimate son of the Spencer family, and he knew who Naomi was. It would be incredibly difficult for them to be together.

Not to mention, Naomi apparently had a fiancé.

Steven wanted Lennon to be happy, but he also tried to remain rational. As wonderful as Naomi was, he selfishly hoped Lennon could avoid getting hurt.

If being with Naomi meant Lennon would get hurt, he'd rather they had never met.

"She's not coming," Lennon's voice was perfectly calm, betraying no hint of disappointment.

But Steven knew better. He couldn't possibly be happy.

His gaze fell on Lennon's phone on the desk, the chat window with Naomi open.

"Answer it. It could be a client."

Steven knew Lennon wasn't fond of dealing with outsiders, but it wasn't up to them.

Lennon finally answered the phone.

"Lennon—"

Naomi's tearful voice came through the receiver. Steven clearly saw Lennon flinch, his entire posture instantly tensing.

"What's wrong?"

As he spoke, he grabbed his car keys and strode briskly out of the office.

Steven followed, but couldn't keep up with Lennon's long strides. He watched as Lennon disappeared like a shot. Turning back, Steven saw the confused faces of his colleagues and offered a small smile. "The boss had an emergency. Let's get back to it, everyone."

No one asked any questions. After reassuring the team, Steven returned to his desk to work.