And I just stood there like a statue. Still reeling from everything he just did and said. He wouldn’t wait for long? What did he mean? What would he do if I didn’t say yes? Drag me out on a date with him?

I shook my head. Who knew? Achilles Valencian was capable of anything.

It was my fault! I shouldn’t have kissed him back.

Now what do I do?

My hand touched my swollen lips. Heat crept up my cheeks along the fluttering in my tummy as the recollection of him wrapped around me flowed into my mind.

I sighed. Even if it was wrong, it felt so right to be in his arms. His embrace felt home. A home I never wanted to leave.

Gathering the pile of files against my chest, I strutted out of my office towards the conference room. Another important meeting would be held in a few minutes, and even after being an ordinary employee, the boss needed me beside him.

I just hoped the evening wouldn’t come soon. Even though I didn’t have to answer him anything just because he demanded me to, if I wanted the answers to my own questions, I’d have to give him a yes.

But it wasn’t that simple. I couldn’t just go out with him when I didn’t have a proper conversation with Warner.

As I neared the meeting room, I saw Tobias, busy in discussion with Matt.

“Hey! I didn’t know you were gonna drop by,” I said, when he turned to me.

Smiling, he shrugged. “Wanted to surprise you. And maybe you’ll keep getting these surprises more often now.”

I raised a brow. “What do you mean?”

Seeing me, Matt’s eyes widened slightly as he excused himself and scurried away.

What’s with him?

“Do you know what the meeting is about?” Tobias asked.

I shook my head.

“Well, apart from our family business, I thought about opening something of my own. As you know, I always had an interest in doing something in the clothing line. So, I’m planning to do so now. And Achilles decided to invest in my new company, helping me with the launch.” His face brightened with a grin.

My mouth formed into an ‘O’. I had no idea about his plans, though I always knew about his dream. It was great he was finally doing something to achieve it.

And Ace was helping him? He didn’t mention anything about it to me.

Ignoring the warmth that surged through my chest at his gesture, I gave my brother a bone-crushing hug. “That’s great! I’m so happy for you! I’m sure you’ll kick assess even in this field.”

He laughed, reciprocating the affection.

Patting his back, I pulled away. “Does Dad know?”

He nodded. “Yes, he said he’d be always there if I needed any help or support.”