Still fuming, she left Dominic’s office. When she got to the restroom and saw herself in the mirror, her face was so red it looked like she had downed several shots of liquor. Dominic was so unbelievably petty! Just because she accidentally sent the wrong message and made him think he was being teased, did he really have to get back at her like this?

In the meeting that started at 10:30 a.m., Vespera only handled the minutes. It was Gerard who had sent out the notices, prepared the documents for senior management, and managed all the logistics. It was Vespera’s first day, and considering how early the meeting was and that she wasn’t familiar with what was going to be discussed, Gerard figured making coffee was a good way for her to ease in. It was meant to be thoughtful.

At noon, there was a lunch appointment. The host was a major real estate developer. Tavian Group had been involved in property for years, and the two companies had recently teamed up on a resort project. The contract had been signed before Dominic officially took over the company. The developer was an old friend of Dominic’s father—more like an uncle, really. So, when he reached out, Dominic readily agreed. The lunch had originally been scheduled days ago but got postponed due to Dominic’s injury.

Luminic arrived at the restaurant with Vespera and Gerard. The moment they stepped into the private dining room, Vespera realized this was no simple luncheon. Besides Jordan Aldrige and his secretary, Serena Cross, the vice president of Tarian Coup—Alex Smith—was also there. So were Luke and Austin. So, Jordan was here today to mediate.

Dominic took a seat, his demeanor cold and distant; meanwhile, Vespera worried that Luke would cause a scene. The second Luke saw Vespera, his expression darkened. His gaze locked on her like a predator stalking prey. This was how she acted now? Sticking close to Dominic in public, not even bothering to keep up appearances? The others in the room also gave Vespera speculative glances. Stur knew exactly what they were thinking, but Dominic had taught her well. When one didn’t do anything wrong, one didn’t need to explain oneself. They could think whatever they wanted. She couldn’t embarrass Dominic.

Vespera and Gerard took their seats. Before arriving, Gerard had warned her that Jordan loved pushing people to drink. They needed to be ready to intercept.

“Come on, let’s pour a drink for Mr. Held. He’s late, so he owes us a glass!”

Sure enough, Jordan jumped straight into the usual drinking toasts the moment they sat down. Serena immediately stood up and filled Dominic’s glass to the brim.

Chapter 139

Vespera immediately stood up. With a smile, she lifted the glass of wine in front of her. “Mr. Reid has a cold and can’t drink; I’ll drink on his behalf.”

Just as the glass was about to touch her lips, a hand reached over and took it from her. “There’s no need. Sit down.” Though his voice was calm and detached, there was an unmistakable note of protectiveness in it. Dome set the glass back on the table. The private room instantly fell silent. Luke’s grip on his own glass tightened as if he might crush it in his hand. The others had varying expressions—some curious, some with faint frowns, and some pretending not to notice anything at all.

Vespera sat back down, a little dazed. She hadn’t yet figured out what Dominic’s intentions were. But knowing him, there was probably a deeper meaning behind his actions. Her job was simply to cooperate.

It might have sounded like a joke, but everyone knew the message behind it—Dominic was disrespecting Jordan for a woman. Even Samuel would give Jordan respect if he were here.

Dominic glanced over lazily, then smiled, “You’re right, Mr. Smith. Since you understand me so well, why don’t you drink this one for me?” Then, he gave a few weak-sounding coughs for good measure.

Alex thought, “You shameless bastard!” Dominic was his boss, and he said he was sick and couldn’t drink. In front of so many people, what could he do? Say no? Left with no choice, Alex raised the glass and drank it, his face turning red with suppressed frustration. Austin gave Alex an apologetic glance.

Austin had gone to Tavian Group several times, only to be rejected at the door. A few days ago, he happened to run into Jordan at a cocktail party. They had a quick chat, and Jordan offered to help arrange a meeting with Dominic. Just to be safe, they had brought Alex along too. But now, it was clear—Dominic didn’t care about anyone. Was he really that captivated by Vespera? The way he shielded her. How could they not be involved with each other?