Chapter 27 Now Seeing Stars and the Moon

Claire's POV:

I pursed my lips, nodded in agreement, and before long, I arrived at the Crystal Hotel near the company with Peter. Where two Frenchmen were waiting there for us.

With fluent French, I greeted them and dedicated myself to the task of interpreting. The Frenchmen, were highly impressed with my abilities, and by the end of the meal, a tentative intention to collaborate was formed.

It was not until then that a relieved smile blossomed on my face. I raised my glass confidently and toasted to a pleasant cooperation between both parties.

After escorting the foreign businessmen to the hotel entrance and waving goodbye politely, I was about to turn back to retrieve my bag when Peter suddenly grasped my wrist.

"You didn't get enough to eat, did you?" Peter, slightly tipsy, looked at me with an increasing hint of suggestiveness, "Come on, let's go back and have some more."

"No, thank you." I tried to break free, but Peter held on tighter, his eyes roving over me, especially lingering at the slightly lower collar of my shirt.

"Claire, do you even realize how beautiful you are?"

"Peter, you're drunk!" I struggled, and in my panic, I managed to slip a hand quietly into my trouser pocket.

"I'm not drunk!" Peter suddenly pulled me into his arms, breathing heavily, "Claire, I can't forget you. You're so much better than that wretched woman Sarah! If it weren't for her uncle being a shareholder, I wouldn't bother with her."

"Claire, as long as you're willing to be with me, I can offer you everything but a title. I can introduce you to more clients, and help you close more deals. All you have to do is make me happy. I'll pluck the stars and moon from the sky for you! I... Ah!" Peter's words were cut short by a scream.

I stood stunned for a moment, then was shielded by a towering figure. With several muffled thumps, Peter was flung away like a dog, collapsing on the ground, and crying out in pain.

"Seeing stars and the moon now?" That stern and profound voice, let my taut nerves instantly relax.

I threw myself into that familiar and warm embrace, my small hands tightly encircling his waist, my face against his chest, the powerful heartbeat providing me with infinite security. I felt the sudden urge to cry.

Had Colin seen everything just now? He wouldn't think that I was betraying him and flirting with other men, would he?

"Colin, I..."

"It's okay now." Colin's voice was soft as he stroked my back, "I'm here for you."