Laura spoke with unwavering certainty—she had never once regretted staying by Marguerite’s side.
Marguerite smiled warmly at her, gratitude shining in her eyes.
After all, when everyone else was eager to leave, Laura was the only one who stayed, never hesitating, never wavering.
A few moments later, Luke walked in from outside. Spotting the two women seated together, he took the seat across from them.
“Let me introduce you,” Marguerite began. “This is my good friend, Luke. When we hit a snag with those two projects a while back, it was Luke who stepped in and helped us out. You two should’ve spoken on the phone by now.”
She gestured to Laura. “And this is my closest friend and now my assistant, Laura.”
The two exchanged glances and nodded politely.
But as Laura took in the man sitting across from her, she found it impossible to hide her excitement. There was something about him that made her heart race for no reason at all.
He really is handsome—better looking than any actor on TV, she thought, almost in disbelief.
Still, Laura knew better than to let her imagination run wild. No matter how much she admired him, it was impossible for someone like him to end up with someone like her. The gap between their worlds was just too wide.
Best not to dwell on that.
Marguerite continued, “We’ve got two upcoming projects in collaboration with the Zade Corporation. I wanted you both here today so you could get to know each other—after all, you’ll be working closely together from now on.”
She glanced at them both, her tone sincere. “You’re both very important friends to me. I hope you can become friends as well.”
The three of them shared a relaxed meal, chatting and laughing until it was time to head home.
Marguerite’s family driver was already waiting for her at the door, so she left with him, her departure as smooth as ever.
Laura, on the other hand, had come alone, and by now it was already late. Marguerite looked at Luke, concern flickering across her face.
“Luke, I’m trusting you with Laura tonight. Make sure she gets home safe, or you’ll have me to answer to.”
Luke grinned. “You have my word—I’ll get her home in one piece. When have I ever let you down?”
With that, Laura climbed into Luke’s car, and their evening continued under the quiet glow of the streetlights.

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