Chapter 168 It's Yours to Keep
Eula hesitated momentarily before responding, “I shan't be in attendance.” The thought of attending Kristina's engagement party was unpalatable to her. She would sooner dispatch a funeral wreath than make an appearance at such an event.Suddenly, a message from Lillian Stewart popped up on her screen. "Eula, I was under the impression that you and Judson were an item, but it appears I was mistaken. I'd like to extend an invitation to a movie tomorrow. Please, don't refuse; I'll collect you after work."Eula was taken aback. The two messages had arrived simultaneously. A faint smile played on her lips — if Lillian Stewart wished to court her, why should she resist? It had been a considerable amount of time since she last indulged in a cinematic experience.Eula's thoughts drifted back to the past. If it hadn't been for that unfortunate incident, she might have ended up with Lillian Stewart. They were once desk mates and had shared a pleasant rapport.Judson leaned in abruptly, interrupting her thoughts. "What has you so engrossed?"Eula swiftly stowed her phone away, replying nonchalantly, "Just browsing, nothing of significance."She shifted her gaze to the window; their car was leisurely traversing a country road. The scenery was enchanting, but she was acutely aware of the biting cold outside, evidenced by the frost forming on the window. Amused, she traced a small turtle on the foggy glass with her fingertip, imagining it to be Judson. The turtle-shaped Judson seemed endearing, a stark contrast to his real-life handsome and rugged demeanor.Suddenly, Judson sneezed, prompting Myles to turn around and inquire, "Judson, are you feeling cold?"Eula reacted instinctively, removing her coat and draping it over his legs. "Here, wear this! I won't be held responsible if you fall ill."Judson shot Myles a glance through the rearview mirror, causing him to flinch; he had once again put his foot in his mouth.Myles attempted to recover, "Miss Lowe, Judson is quite resilient; he usually doesn't mind the cold. Keep the coat. He tends to run hot."Eula's eyes widened slightly as she realized the extent of Judson's robust constitution. Even his assistant was aware of his warmth; his ability to withstand the cold was a testament to his rugged nature.Eula chuckled, "Well, thank you, Judson. I did dress rather lightly today, it's a bit chilly."She quickly donned the coat again as Judson offered a faint smile."Eula, don't prioritize style over comfort like this again. If you fall ill and can't work, it'll result in deductions from your salary and bonus."The prospect of losing money made Eula anxious."Understood. I’ll dress more warmly next time, to avoid falling ill."Suddenly, Judson pulled her close, "It's warmer here."Eula could feel his warmth, it was intense, much like his gaze."Judson... Judson... let go, stop it."Her eyes darted forward to the two individuals ahead; she had a reputation to maintain, given their daily interactions.But Judson wouldn't release her, instead burying his head in the crook of her neck."I'm weary, I need a nap. Be my pillow, I'll reward you with a bonus."Her eyes lit up instantly, "How much?"The word that sprang to the minds of the three occupants of the car was unequivocal: Gold-digger!Judson sighed, "That necklace, it's yours. Consider it a fair trade, alright?"Necklace?Eula was momentarily confused, then she gasped."The Tears of the Stars? Judson, you're gifting it to me?"Taken aback by her reaction, he playfully nipped at her neck, causing her pulse to quicken.