Chapter 100: New Evening Gown

Eric deliberately raised his voice so Levi, cooking in the kitchen, would overhear. I noticed Levi marching out, carrying a pot and looking furious. “I’m staying with Jane because we have a lot of work-related stuff to discuss! You’re overstepping your bounds, Mr. Flint!”

Levi was right. I let him stay because he struggled to find a place in Caldera, and living together simplified things before the studio launched. Levi tossed out that remark, returned to the kitchen, ignoring Eric.

“I’ll have him move near the studio once our work is more stable,” I explained, meeting Eric’s intense gaze.

“I guess he could stay at my place for now,” Eric suggested, sighing.

I glanced up, puzzled. “What about you, then?”

“I’ll stay here and cook for you instead,” Eric replied with a playful wink.

I was utterly entranced by his deep, seductive voice. I regained my composure and suggested, “You two should just live together.”

“In that case, forget it,” Eric said disgustedly, withdrawing his gaze. “If that happened, it’d only be a matter of time before one of us jumped off the building.”

He grabbed a bag, handing it to me. “Also, since the banquet’s in a few days, I thought this gown might suit you. Have a look.”

I took the bag; a gold-plated box nestled inside. The exquisite packaging showed how expensive the gown was. I opened the box, revealing a stunning black evening gown.

“You should try it on.”

I nodded, returning to my room and slipping into the gown. Its velvet fabric radiated luxury; its tailored design emphasized my curves, and the cut-out at the waist added grace and sensuality. I recognized it instantly as a Debbie Lopez design. I remembered seeing it in a fashion magazine; only two existed outside Caldera—one kept by Debbie, the other bought by an unnamed buyer.

I never thought Eric was the buyer.

I felt touched, realizing how much he’d done for me for this banquet. He’d not only secured an invitation but also procured this exclusive gown. Debbie was a highly respected figure in Caldera’s fashion industry and a banquet host. Wearing her design would undoubtedly impress her.

Even though LunaGlo had international recognition, we needed support from prominent local figures to break into the Caldera market.

I pushed open the bedroom door and strode toward Eric, who was visibly stunned. I thanked him from the bottom of my heart.

He playfully pouted. “I’ve already told you there’s no need for thank yous, Jae. If you really want to thank me, share a few more meals with me—just the two of us.”

I’d changed into loungewear by the time Levi finished cooking.

“Where is he, Jane? Did he run away because he knows he can’t beat me in an argument?”

I smiled faintly. “He had to attend to a few matters at the company. He only came by to give me the gown.”

Levi’s eyes sparkled. I understood his intention but wanted to maintain suspense until the banquet. “I’ll make sure you’re the first to see me in it on the night of the banquet.”