Now that Desmond had restored her bank cards, this meal didn’t feel like a big deal. Charlotte figured it was just money spent on social goodwill.
Halfway through dinner, she stood up to use the restroom.
Yasmine, once again using her fake–friendly tone, quipped, “Where are you going, Miss Riley? Don’t tell me the bill’s too much and you’re planning to make a run for it? Haha.”
Charlotte kept a straight face and replied calmly, “Just going to the bathroom. What’s wrong, Miss Carter? Worried I’ll escape? Want to come with me?”
“Of course not,” Yasmine said lazily. “It was just a joke. No need to get so serious.”
Charlotte didn’t bother responding. She pushed open the door and stepped out.
As she passed the elevator on the way to the restroom, she suddenly met a pair of familiar eyes.
Sean was standing there, slightly surprised. “Lottie? What are you doing here?”
He was surrounded by a few men in sharp suits. Judging from their direction, they had just finished a meal upstairs and were heading down.
He walked up to her in a few strides.
Charlotte smiled. “What a coincidence. I’m here treating my coworkers to dinner.”
Sean already knew she had joined S&G Law. He gave her a gentle nod. “How was your first day?”
“Pretty good, actually,” she said.
She didn’t mention how her coworkers were try
to
rip
her off.
“Is dinner wrapping up?” Sean asked. “I can drive you home.
Charlotte shook her head. “Not yet. You go ahead.”
“Alright,” Sean said. Then, as if remembering something, he added, “It’s a bit of a drive from here to your place. Did you ask your driver to come get you?”
“No, I’m heading to the apartment near the university tonight.”
“Alright. Just be careful, okay?”
“Got it.”
Charlotte said goodbye and went back to the private room.
Later, when she went to the front desk to pay, the hostess told her the bill had already been settled.
Who else could it be but Sean?
Charlotte pulled out her phone and sent him a message.
“Thank you, Sean.”
His reply came quickly.
“You don’t have to thank me.
“Are you finished? I’m waiting in the outdoor lot to the left of the entrance. I just don’t feel right letting you go home alone this late.”
Warmth bloomed in Charlotte’s chest.
“Almost done. I’ll be there soon.”
Just as she put her phone away, the others began filing out of the room. A few male coworkers were stumbling drunk, so Charlotte helped arrange rides for them.
Yasmine had driven herself and hadn’t been drinking. She rolled down the window of her Honda Civic, smirking smugly at Charlotte. “I’m heading off then, Miss Riley. Hope you can find a ride home. Bye–bye.”
Charlotte just smiled politely. “Take care.”
1/2
Chapter 51
+25 Bonus
Most people had already left. Only Jenny remained.
Charlotte asked, “Where do you live? Want me to call a car for you?”
Jenny waved her hands quickly. “No, no, it’s fine! I’m renting nearby–just a short walk.”
“You sure? It’s late.”
“Totally. There are food stalls all along the road, and it’s well lit. Only about 800 meters. I’ll be fine, really.”
“Okay. See you tomorrow, then.”
Jenny started walking, but after a few steps, she suddenly turned around and jogged back.
“Miss Riley, thank you again for tonight.” Jenny looked a little shy. “You’re really kind. I heard you don’t have an assistant yet, so if you need anything–document drafting, organizing case files—just say the word.”
Charlotte smiled. “I’ll take you up on that.”
Once Jenny had left, Charlotte made her way to the outdoor parking lot.
She got in the car and gave Sean the address. It was only a few minutes away.
At the entrance to the apartment complex, she said, “I’m planning to stay here from now on. It’s easier for work.”
Sean nodded. “Alright. I’ll come visit often.”
“Sure. I’m heading up. Goodnight.”
Just as Charlotte reached for the door handle, her phone buzzed.
She glanced at the screen, frowning.
“Charlotte, I’m in Jersey City. Can we meet?”
