Chapter 84

Aurora’s words landed well, putting everyone at ease. Many looked at her with newfound respect. It seemed Walton Corporation had a strong chance this time. The representative they had sent wasn’t just capable; she also knew how to carry herself with restraint and professionalism.

Aurora noticed the shift in their gazes but responded only with a polite nod. She knew all too well how ruthless the business world could be. People loved tearing others down when they were vulnerable. Maintaining surface-level relationships was enough–cordial but distant. There were no unnecessary enemies and no unnecessary entanglements.

Stepping out of the meeting room, Aurora immediately spotted Lucas waiting for her.

“You’re done?”

“Yes, everything’s settled.”

Lucas took her bag from her naturally, as if it were second nature. Aurora paused for a brief second but said nothing. Well, if he offered to carry her bag for free, why should she refuse?

However, as she glanced around, something struck her as odd. Lucas was standing alone. Everyone else was busy with their own tasks, leaving him a noticeable amount of personal space. That was unusual. With his looks, if he were at Walton Corporation, plenty of people would have come over just to sneak a glance or strike up a conversation. Yet here at Vanguard, not a single person approached him. The company’s discipline was impressive.

Aurora studied Lucas’ features carefully. At that moment, he caught her scrutinizing him and chuckled.

“What is it? You’re staring at me so seriously.”

“Just admiring your good looks,” she replied offhandedly.

The moment the words left her mouth, a faint blush crept onto her cheeks. What the hell is wrong with me?

Lucas let out a low, amused laugh, the sound deep and rich. He couldn’t hold back a laugh, pressing his fist against his lips in a poor attempt to stifle it. It was clear that he was in a good mood.

From the corner of the room, Desmond stood in stunned silence. Is this really the same boss I know? Normally, even getting a neutral expression from him during meetings was difficult. If someone made a mistake, they’d be in for a brutal dressing-down. But today? It was like he had been possessed.

Desmond’s gaze instinctively shifted to Aurora. So, it’s because of Miss Walton…

Aurora, on the other hand, felt her heart stutter for a beat at Lucas’ smile. Usually so distant, so untouchable–yet that moment of warmth made him seem almost… human. It felt like the first thaw after winter.

“All right, I know I’m good-looking,” Lucas teased. “You can take your time admiring me when we get home.”

As he spoke, he reached out and ruffled her hair. Her perfectly neat hairstyle was instantly ruined, a few stray strands sticking up stubbornly. The little bit of disorder softened her otherwise composed and professional appearance, making her seem a touch more playful and alive.

Seeing that, Lucas’ smile deepened.

Aurora shot him a glare. “We’re still at someone else’s company, try to act properly.”

“I’m done here. I’m heading back. What about you?”

Lucas thought for a moment. “I’m just about finished too. Do you want me to drop you off at Walton?”

“No need,” Aurora declined immediately. “I drove the company car. You should just go home and rest if you’re done.”

Seeing her insist, Lucas didn’t push further.

“Alright. Drive safe.”

Then, as if casually, he added, “What do you want for dinner? I’ll pick up some groceries and cook for you after work.”

The second the words left his mouth, a quiet wave of noise rippled through the area. The air around them shifted. Aurora could feel the attention on them. And just like that, the embarrassment hit her full force.