Page 45 of Stuck with My Billionaire Protector

With a sigh, I lean against his desk. I’m starting to feel the weight of the day lifting slightly. “Let’s take a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come. We’ve faced numerous challenges, but we’re still standing. Friday’s launch will be a testament to our hard work.”

Dylan nods as a glimmer of excitement returns to his eyes. “You’re right. It’s time to celebrate our accomplishments, and I couldn’t have asked for a better partner by my side.”

As the week progresses, the office buzzes with anticipation. The launch event takes shape with the final preparations falling into place. We collaborate closely with the team to fine-tune every detail. We want to ensure a seamless and remarkable experience.

Throughout the week, Dylan and I continue to work together and refine our investigation into the threats and sabotage. We dissect every piece of evidence, searching for any hidden connections that may lead us closer to the culprits. It’s a race against time, but our determination remains unyielding.

The Friday morning sun casts a warm glow as Dylan and I walk into the office. We both feel a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. Today is the day we’ve been working tirelessly for—the launch of StreamScape.

As we make our way to our offices, I spot Lucas approaching with a confident stride. He carries an air of assurance, and it is a testament to the security measures he has put in place.

“Good morning, Jocelyn, Dylan.” Lucas greets us with a nod. “Just wanted to let you know that my security team is in position. We’ve got everything covered to ensure a smooth and safe event.”

I return his nod, grateful for his vigilance. “Thank you, Lucas. Your expertise and thoroughness are invaluable. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

Dylan, standing beside me, offers a firm handshake to Lucas. “I appreciate your efforts, Lucas. The safety of our staff and guests is paramount. Let’s make sure this launch goes off without a hitch.”

As Lucas moves on to attend to other matters, I turn to Dylan with a smile. “It’s reassuring to know that we have a dedicated team keeping everyone safe. Now, let’s focus on making this launch a memorable success.”

Dylan’s eyes meet mine, and there’s a spark of determination and anticipation in his gaze. “Absolutely. We’ve come so far, Jocelyn. Today is the culmination of our hard work, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished.”

With renewed excitement, we exchange a brief nod. We then head to our separate offices, eager to get to work.

I sit across from Clare in her office. The room is filled with the buzz of final preparations for the launch party. We go over the details of the event once again, checking off each item on our list to ensure nothing is overlooked.

“Okay, so we have the guest list finalized, decorations in place, and the catering confirmed,” I say, glancing down at my notes. “I think we’re ready for an amazing launch party.”

Clare nods, a professional smile on her face. “Absolutely, Jocelyn. We’ve covered every aspect, and everything should run smoothly. It’s been a team effort, and I appreciate your dedication to making this event a success.”

I return her smile, but something flickers in Clare’s eyes as we lock gazes. For a brief moment, I catch a glimmer of a look that sends a shiver down my spine. But just as quickly as it appears, it vanishes, leaving me questioning whether I imagined it.

“Thank you, Clare. It’s been a challenging journey, but we’re almost there,” I say, trying to shake off the unease that has settled in the pit of my stomach. “I’m confident that tonight will be a memorable celebration for everyone.”

Clare’s smile remains unchanged, but there’s a hint of something behind it. “Absolutely, Jocelyn. We should be proud of what we’ve accomplished together. I couldn’t have done it without your help. I’d like to take you out to lunch as a thank you. It’s almost noon, and I know a great little Italian place nearby. It’s called Buona Tavola.”

I hesitate, the lingering unease resurfacing. However, I decide to push it aside, attributing it to paranoia surrounding the threats I’ve been facing. “That sounds like a great idea, Clare. Let me go grab my purse, and I’ll meet you at the elevator.”

Clare’s smile widens, and as our eyes meet, I can’t help but catch that same glint of something dark and calculated in her gaze. It sends a chill down my spine, but I quickly brush it off.

On the way back to my office, I run into Parker.

“Hey, Jocelyn. How’s everything looking for the party tonight?”

“It’s all set. Clare and I are just heading out to lunch to celebrate our hard work. We’re going to an Italian place called Buona Tavola. Have you heard of it?”

“No. I don’t think so. Well, enjoy your lunch.”

“Thanks, Parker. See you later.”

After a quick stop at my office to get my purse, I walk over to the elevator where Clare is waiting. She presses the down button, and when it arrives, we step in and head down to the parking garage.

“Shall I drive since I know where the restaurant is?” she asks, gesturing toward a late-model black Mercedes S-Class. The car strikes me as a little expensive for someone in Clare’s position, but what do I know? Maybe she comes from money.

“Sure, Clare. That sounds great.”

We climb into the car, and she starts the engine. Soon, we take off. We head south toward the warehouse district. I’m not aware of any restaurants in this area, but it did sound like a hidden gem. I’m just reminding myself to stop being paranoid when Clare pulls into one of the warehouse lots. The moment she pulls in, a large sliding door opens to admit us.

“Clare, what’s going on? What are we doing here?” I question as I turn to look at her.

---