Chapter 82

Claire stood up with a smile, lifting the glass. “Our boss caught a cold, he can't drink. I'll do it for him.” She raised the glass to her lips, but before it touched, a slender fair hand gently took it from hers. “No need. Sit down,” Julian said calmly. The tone was light, but carried a subtle protectiveness. He set the glass back on the table. The room instantly went quiet. Lucas’s grip on his own glass tightened like he might crush it. Expressions varied around the table—some curious, some frowning, others pretending nothing happened. Claire blinked, feeling a bit thrown. She obediently sat back down, still uncertain about what Julian was trying to do. But she figured—he must have his reasons. All she needed to do was play along. “Mr. Archer’s really got a soft spot for the ladies,” Kevin joked. Though it sounded playful, the real message was clear—Julian just brushed off Gary’s toast. Even Vincent’s presence might not get him to drink. Julian shot a glance sideways, then gave a mil