Goodbye My Arrogant Ex (Marguerite and Leonard) novel Chapter 248

Since their current project had been running smoothly, he wanted Laura to take a well-deserved break; after all, she’d been working tirelessly every single day, never complaining, always giving her all.

“Mr. Taylor, honestly, there’s not much for me to do at home,” Laura said. “So I figured I’d come in early, just in case anything came up that we could handle together. Besides, there’s… something else, actually—a rather important matter.”

She hesitated, then continued, “I found out today is Mr. Zade’s birthday. I really wanted to get him a little something, but I have no idea what would be appropriate. He probably doesn’t even care about gifts, and I doubt he needs anything from me. I just wanted to show a bit of appreciation, but I don’t have the courage, and, honestly, he might not even notice whatever I give him.”

Laura had been agonizing over this for days, completely at a loss about what to do.

“If you hadn’t mentioned it, I never would have known,” Mr. Taylor admitted, looking amused. “You’re certainly attentive—much more than I am. I’ve known him for years, never once given him anything. Truth is, I don’t even know what he likes. How about this: why don’t we all have dinner together tonight?”

If the company just sent Laura and Zade out to dinner together, it might get awkward. This way, if he joined, it would be a group business dinner—a much easier excuse.

“That sounds wonderful, Mr. Taylor! If you have time tonight, that would be perfect.”

Laura had hoped for just this outcome, but she hadn’t dared suggest it herself—she was afraid he might be too busy or simply not want to go.

Without missing a beat, Marguerite picked up the phone and dialed Luke.

“And what about you, Mr. Taylor?” Luke asked with a laugh. “We’ve known each other for years, and I’ve never gotten a present from you, either. Don’t you want to mark the occasion?”

“Given the nature of our relationship, I don’t think that’s necessary,” Marguerite replied breezily. “Besides, my Laura is already taking care of it.”

“Alright, since you insist,” Luke said, unable to keep the smile from his voice. “You choose the place, then. Since you’re the one inviting me, I’ll let you decide, but you know me—a cheap meal won’t cut it.”

Luke’s feelings were a tangle of surprise and warmth. He was honestly happy to be invited; even if someone else would be at the table too, just sharing a meal together was enough. He wasn’t about to ask for anything more.