Page 77 of Unlocking my Boss's Heart

“The Aiko Osaka case huh?” Otis, one of the attorneys, asked.

Anton nodded, signaling for us to sit down. I ended up sitting beside him by pure luck or, because no one else wanted to sit by the boss.

“But it’s not as huge as the Eucalyptia Pharmaceuticals lawsuit, and you didn’t host a dinner when we won that case,” Otis observed. He was an ambitious but friendly lawyer.

“I think it’s up tometo decide which case we’re celebrating,” Anton replied.

I beamed at his authoritative voice.

We ate and chatted about various topics, and while I would’ve rather been alone with Anton, we had a good time. I ended up laughing more than I ever had with my colleagues.

While waiting for the dessert, Anton stood up, a wine glass in hand. “I think you already know who the lawyer was that facilitated Mei Shau’s case settlement.”

All eyes turned to me as they nodded.

My heart pounded. I felt so exposed. I had no idea Anton planned to make a speech about me.

“And you might have heard the rumors surrounding Attorney Adams and me,” he continued.

There were a few more nods.

“I’m here to address these rumors.”

My eyes widened as I braced myself for what Anton would say next. Since getting back together, I’d expected him to address the rumors, but I didn’t think he would do it so soon or in such a public setting.

He took my hand, and I stood beside him, feeling shy under their unwavering gazes. “The rumors are all true. We’ve been dating for the last few weeks, but I assure you she was hired based on her competency and not for any other reason. I don’t need to list her qualities—you all know them. She has proven herself through her performance. If anyone feels intimidated by our relationship, then, unfortunately, this firm may not be the right place for them. We want only those who will go above and beyond to support each other.”

Otis hooted and began clapping, and the others followed suit. I grinned at Otis, silently grateful that his small action eased the awkwardness.

“Would you like to leave?” Anton asked after dessert.

I nodded, remaining silent—not because I wasn’t happy, but because I was overwhelmed with gratitude and needed to keep my excitement under control. There was no need for public displays of affection, especially among our colleagues.

We walked out of the restaurant hand in hand. Once we were out of sight from our fellow lawyers, Anton took me into his arms, dipped me slightly, and kissed me.

I laughed as we parted, glancing around at the curious passersby. “Anton,” I lightly scolded, “People are watching.”

He cupped my face, his eyes burning into mine. “I don’t care.”

He kissed me again. At that moment, I forgot that we were on the street and wrapped my arms around his neck. He lifted me off my feet and twirled me around. My lips parted, and his tongue found its way between them. Suddenly, it was imperative that we find privacy.

The valet brought the car. We got in and drove away.

I felt content, constantly stealing glances at Anton. No matter how hard I tried not to smile, my lips curved upward. I felt giddy and didn’t care how childish it seemed.

His gaze flicked away from the road to focus on me for a second. “What’s so funny?”

I sighed, leaning back in the seat. “I’m just so happy.”

He grinned. “That makes two of us.”

He walked me to my apartment building, and we climbed up the short flight of stairs leading to the lobby entrance. He held the door for me, his eyes roving over me the entire time. Every bit of me tingled under his gaze. Even though we had spent the whole day together, I wanted more time with him. I had a feeling I would always want more of him.

At the apartment door, I faced him. “Do you want to come in for a cup of coffee?”

The door swung open behind me.

Maddison peered out into the hallway. “I thought I heard you out here. Come in,” she said, her eyes dancing with excitement. “I've been waiting for you.” She grabbed my hand and pulled me into the apartment.

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