Chapter 25

Autumn looked at Dawson, eyes filled with disbelief. Why did he help block that drink for her? She wasn't the only one surprised. Rowan hadn't expected it either. At first, he was thrilled that Dawson had acknowledged him like that, but when their eyes met, his body tensed for a split second. He recovered quickly, raised his own glass, and downed it. "A toast to Mr. Faulkner." With that, he returned to his seat. Dawson's every move drew attention. After sipping in for Autumn, no one dared bother her again. Instead, whispers spread as people began speculating about who she was. The curiosity was laced with gossip—was there something going on between them? Knowing Dawson had done her a huge favor, Autumn felt she had to clear things up. She started making casual conversation with the person beside her. It didn't take long before people learned she was just a junior secretary, temporarily filling in because Dawson's assistant, Jamie, had something urgent to attend to. The rumor