Love's Cunning Ruse novel Chapter 45

When Kieran said to Julie with deep affection, "I believe in you," Julie felt a pang in her heart.

Adeline gave Julie and Kieran a puzzled look as if questioning what was going on between them. Shifting the topic, Kieran said to Julie, "I was expecting you to discuss compensation with me at lunch today, but you didn't show up..."

"I didn't stand you up. I never agreed to meet with you," Julie cut in, clarifying her position.

Adeline nodded, realizing that Kieran had scheduled the meeting with Julie to discuss compensation. The restaurant was close to Simpo Co., so it didn't seem odd for Kieran to be dining there. But Adeline was suspicious. Was a car accident compensation really something that required Kieran to show up in person?

"The car is mine, Mr. Hernandez. If you want to discuss compensation, talk to me," Adeline interjected, grinning at Kieran.

But he barely glanced at Adeline before asking, "Were you the one driving?"

"I wasn't." Adeline shook her head, then excitedly said to Kieran, "But I can take full responsibility. Give me your number, and about the rest..."

"Julie," Kieran suddenly called out Julie's name, his voice clear and magnetic.

Julie, who thought she was off the hook and was drinking water, choked when Kieran completely ignored Adeline across the table and called her name.

Startled, she choked. Kieran patted her back. "Still as clumsy as ever, huh?"

Such an affectionate tone...

Adeline looked at Kieran and Julie, "You two..."