I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 63

Just as her secretary finished a report, Ava Thompson hurried into the office.

“Nora, Mr. Thompson from The Thompson Group is here. He said he has an appointment with you.”

Natalie had almost forgotten about the consignment from Samuel Thompson's friend.

“Please show Mr. Thompson to the meeting room. I’ll be right there.”

“Of course, Nora.”

Natalie glanced at Ava. She had a spring in her step and a hint of excitement on her face.

When Natalie arrived at the meeting room, only Samuel Thompson was there.

“My friend couldn’t make it, so he asked me to bring this to you,” Samuel said, gesturing to a long, slender box on the table.

Natalie knew it contained a scroll painting. “If it was inconvenient, we could have arranged to pick it up. You didn't have to trouble yourself with a personal trip,” she said, taking a seat across from him.

Just then, Ava entered with freshly brewed coffee.

“Mr. Thompson, I made you your favorite—black coffee, no cream.”

Natalie looked at her assistant again. She was being uncharacteristically attentive today, even knowing Samuel’s preferences. After setting down the coffee, Ava gave Samuel a long, meaningful look before exiting the room.

“It’s no trouble at all, Ms. Watson. Besides, if I didn't have an antique, I wouldn't have an excuse to see you again,” Samuel said openly and confidently.

Natalie, however, wasn't a naive girl who would blush at such a line, and she didn't bother to analyze how much of his statement was genuine. She had heard the rumors—he was a notorious playboy.

“You’re too kind, Mr. Thompson,” she replied smoothly. “The auction house you’ve invested in is highly reputable and boasts countless treasures. You not competing with us is already doing us a great favor.”

The Thompson Group had indeed invested in a local auction house, which was considered one of the local powerhouses. The other major player was backed by The Ramirez Group.

Samuel gave a charming smile, not denying her words.

After they chatted for a while, Natalie had someone take the scroll to the appraisal department, with the results expected the next day.

“It’s the end of the workday, Ms. Watson. How about you do me the honor of joining me for dinner?” Samuel asked as he stood up.

Natalie was about to refuse, not because of Alexander’s warning, but because she had no interest in getting close to a man like Samuel, let alone befriending him.

“Don’t tell me you’re turning me down, Ms. Watson?” Samuel pressed before she could politely decline. He had, after all, helped facilitate a piece of business for her instead of competing for it.

Natalie smiled. “Mr. Thompson, what would you like to eat? My treat.”

He looked at her impassive face. “Weren’t you going to dinner? I happen to be hungry as well. Let’s go together.”

Natalie raised an eyebrow.

Samuel spoke up. “Mr. Ramirez, if I recall correctly, you were invited to a business banquet tonight.”

“Your memory serves you well,” Alexander shot back with a glance. “But it wouldn't be any fun without you there, so I decided to skip it.”

Their words were laced with rivalry.

Natalie interjected, “We were planning on getting Silverpine dishes. I don’t think that would suit your palate, Mr. Ramirez, so perhaps…”

“Who says it doesn’t suit my palate? Silverpine food is my favorite,” Alexander cut her off, his hands in his pockets.

Natalie had said that deliberately, knowing he never ate spicy food, and Silverpine cuisine was famous for its heat.

Feeling exasperated, she could only press, “Are you sure you like it?”

“Instead of asking me, perhaps you should ask Mr. Thompson. As I recall, he isn’t particularly fond of spicy food either,” Alexander said, raising an eyebrow at Samuel.

“Your memory is quite impressive, Mr. Ramirez. One might almost think you have a secret crush on me, knowing my tastes so well,” Samuel retorted sarcastically. He then turned to Natalie. “My mother grew up in Silverpine, and we often have it at home. Since you’re so kind as to suggest Silverpine dishes, Ms. Watson, it would be rude of me to refuse.”