Page 20 of Stuck with My Billionaire Protector

He looks up from his tablet, his eyes burning with frustration. With a sigh, he slides the tablet across the table to me. Once I pick it up, my heart starts racing when I see the headline and the photos displayed on the screen.

Exposé: Boss’s Secret Romance Revealed!

I gasp when I see the pictures of us. They were captured during our kiss in front of my apartment. The emotions that had once swirled within me—the exhilaration and vulnerability of that stolen kiss—now become tainted with a sense of dread.

“I can’t believe this,” I whisper, my voice trembling.

His voice is filled with anger and frustration. “Neither can I. How did this happen? Who could have taken those photos? This couldn’t have come at a worse moment. Mr. Shin is very conservative, so even a hint of impropriety could blow this deal.”

As the weight of the situation settles upon us, we both realize the potential consequences of these images. Our personal and professional lives now collide in a way we never could have anticipated, and it is threatening the delicate balance we had attempted to maintain.

“We have to do something,” I say, determination lacing my words. “We need to address this head-on and control the narrative before it spirals out of control.”

Dylan nods, his features etched with resolve. “You’re right. But what can we do? The pictures are all over the Internet!”

“Mr. Chase, what if we pretend to be in a relationship? We’re already being forced to share a room here. If Mr. Shin finds out about that, the photos will be the least of our worries. But if we were a couple, then these things would be perfectly natural and expected.”

“Jocelyn! That’s a great idea! I only hope we can pull it off on such short notice because here comes Mr. Shin now. Oh, and you better start calling meDylan.”

The decision to enter into a fake relationship is a risky move, but it may be our only chance to salvage the business deal with Mr. Shin. We exchange one last anxious glance and with a deep breath, we straighten our posture and steel ourselves for what lies ahead.

The restaurant is abuzz with activity, but all noise seems to fade into the background as Mr. Shin approaches our table. He exudes an air of formality and sternness. His eyes are sharp as he scans the room. I can feel the weight of his scrutiny as his gaze lands on us, intensifying my nervousness.

His expression is guarded as he greets us curtly. “Mr. Chase, Ms. Mitchell.”

“Mr. Shin, thank you for joining us,” Dylan responds, his tone measured and composed.

Before Dylan can continue, Mr. Shin cuts him off. “I hope you’re prepared to explain those scandalous photos I came across this morning. As you know, I won’t be associated with anything so tawdry and immoral.” His tone is laced with disapproval.

My heart skips a beat as he places a folder on the table containing the damning images that have thrown our lives into disarray. Dylan and I exchange an apprehensive glance. We know that our hastily constructed plan is about to be put to the test.

Taking a moment to compose myself, I meet Mr. Shin’s gaze directly. “Mr. Shin, we understand your concerns and apologize for any confusion these photos may have caused. However, there’s more to this situation than meets the eye.”

Dylan jumps in, his voice calm but assertive. “We want to be upfront with you. Jocelyn and I have recently entered into a relationship, and those photos were taken out of context. We assure you, our intentions are purely professional and we are committed to the success of the business.”

Mr. Shin studies us intently, his expression unyielding. “I find it hard to believe that a boss and his employee can maintain a strictly professional relationship under such circumstances.”

“We understand your skepticism, Mr. Shin.” I make sure to keep my voice steady. “But sometimes, against all odds, two people find themselves drawn together. Despite our initial resistance, Dylan and I have discovered a deep and undeniable connection. Our feelings for each other have grown beyond our control, and we find ourselves hopelessly in love.”

I pause for a moment, meeting Mr. Shin’s gaze with unwavering sincerity. “Ironically, this unexpected turn of events has reinforced my dedication to the company and intensified my commitment to its success. My devotion to Dylan has only strengthened my work ethic as I strive to ensure that our shared vision for the future becomes a reality.”

Dylan nods in agreement, his expression reflecting our genuine sentiments. “We assure you, Mr. Shin, that our professional obligations will always be our top priority. We will continue to work tirelessly to advance the company’s interests.”

Mr. Shin remains silent, his gaze unwavering. The tension in the air is palpable as we wait for his response, uncertain of whether our explanation will be enough to salvage the deal.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, a hint of contemplation softens Mr. Shin’s features. “Very well. I will hear you out, but I expect complete professionalism and no further distractions.”

We exhale in relief, gratitude flooding our hearts. The door to finding common ground with Mr. Shin is not entirely closed.

With renewed determination, we shift our focus to the business at hand, discussing the potential investment, our growth plans, and how our partnership can benefit both parties involved. Slowly, the conversation transitions from the initial tension, allowing our genuine passion for the business to shine through.

As the breakfast meeting progresses, we manage to navigate the delicate balance between our newly minted fake relationship and our professional aspirations. We showcase our expertise by presenting a solid case that addresses Mr. Shin’s concerns while emphasizing our commitment to the company’s success.

By the end of the meeting, a glimmer of cautious optimism emerges. We have managed to regain Mr. Shin’s attention and respect, and he agrees to further discussions and due diligence before making a final decision.

As we part ways, Dylan and I exchange a relieved smile. The battle is not yet won, but we have successfully weathered the storm of the tabloid scandal and gained a fighting chance to secure the investment we need.

We walk away from the restaurant, prepared to face the challenges ahead. This fake relationship may have started as a means to explain the tabloid photos, but it has evolved into a powerful alliance that is fueled by mutual determination and the shared pursuit of a common goal.

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