At noon, Vespera received several lunch invitations. Two department managers called her back to back, followed by the finance director, and then the assistant general manager from the admin department.


    Why was everyone inviting her for lunch? In the end, she suggested they all have lunch together.


    The marketing department manager booked a restaurant, and the finance director insisted on covering the bill. Throughout the meal, they showered Vespera withpliments.


    Unbeknownst to Vespera, she had be somewhat of a legend in thepany. Thetest rumors had imed that her power had surpassed the woman Dominic was supposedly arranged to marry. Word was, she had already won his favor. She was untouchable now.


    As lunch was over and everyone began rising from the table, Vespera''s phone rang. It was a call from Dominic.


    She said politely, "It''s Mr. Reid. Excuse me for a moment."


    Instantly, the four employees around her lit up with knowing grins, like rtives at a wedding right before the vows. It was as though they would burst into tears and were ready to give their blessings.


    Upon seeing their reactions, Vespera was speechless. She ignored them and answered the call. "Mr. Reid."


    "That restaurant''s bouibaisse is not bad. Order one to go and bring it back," said Dominic calmly.


    Vespera answered, "Alright."


    Dominic added, "Be quick. I''m hungry."


    Vespera responded again, "Alright."


    Although the four employees were seated at a distance, they caught a few keywords-bring it back, be quick, hungry. They thought that Vespera and Dominic must be exchanging secret codes.


    After ending the call, Vespera said, "Mr. Reid asked me to bring lunch to him. You guys go ahead without me."


    Vespera stood up, and the others quickly followed, still full of warm smiles and ttery as they booked a second lunch appointment with her before leaving.


    After picking up the food, Vespera returned to thepany. She set the takeout on the table in the lounge, then walked toward the president''s office. She hesitated for a few seconds before finally knocking on the door and stepping inside.


    At this time, Dominic was still at his desk, working. He didn''t have a business lunch today. Usually,


    Gerard handled Dominic''s mea


    because he knew thetter''s preferences like the back of his hand. So, for Dominic to ask


    Véspera instead was definitely deliberate.


    "Mr. Reid, your lunch is here. You should eat while it''s still warm."


    Dominic closed hisptop and walked over. As he approached, Vespera moved toward the door naturally, reaching out to open it for him.


    However, just before her fingers could touch the handle, his arm wrapped around her waist. He pulled her back against him in one swift motion, his chest firm and warm against her back. His masculine scent also flooded her senses.


    His hand circled her waist as their breath tangled, and his grip on her was tight.


    Vespera slightly turned her face away and lowered her gaze. Trying to keep her voice level, she said, "Go eat before it gets cold."


    "Isn''t that what you want? For things to go cold?" Dominic asked coldly in a low voice.


    Vespera didn''t answer right away. Instead, she ced a hand against his chest and tried to reason with him. "There are thousands of warm dishes in this world that suit your taste. Mr. Reid, there''s no need to fixate on just one. Scientifically speaking, you''re supposed to eat until you''re about 70% full. Moderation is key..."


    Vespera''s words were cut off. Dominic tilted her chin up and kissed her fiercely.


    He kissed her like he was iming her, swallowing every word before she could


    finish.


    The kiss left Vespera breathless and made her tongue go numb. Then, she gave a quiet hum and reached down, pinching his waist.