?<strong>Chapter 1212:</strong>


    The recent tunnel copse had imed lives, and when Juliet took over the project, she inherited its ghosts. Some bereaved families refused marypensation, necessitating the use of influence to navigate the situation. Such was the nature of business in their world.


    A question nagged at Cliff’s mind. “Miss Foster, you’re hardly a phnthropist. The tunnel copse wasn’t your cross to bear. What made you take on this burden?”


    Juliet’s lips curved into a knowing smile. “You think just anyone could handle a project of this magnitude? Sometimes, you have to embrace the losses to seize the opportunity.”


    Cliff’s eyes narrowed to razor-sharp focus. “Is that the real reason?”


    Juliet met his gaze without flinching. “What exactly are you implying?”


    “Just making conversation,” Cliff replied, his casual tone masking deeper suspicions.


    The temperature plummeted as they reached the ground floor. Wine and towering heels conspired against Juliet’s bnce, making her sway precariously.


    Cliff instinctively steadied Juliet.


    A shiver ran through Juliet’s body as she drew in a deep breath. “Cliff, could I borrow your coat?”


    Hesitation flickered across Cliff’s features. Keeping her at arm’s length, he guided her toward the exit through the fabric of her sleeve. “The cold won’tst long.”


    Juliet’s words died in her throat. Stung by his reluctance, she pressed herself more firmly against him in quiet defiance.


    Cliff’s brow furrowed, and he was about to create some distance when Juliet suddenly halted, her attention caught by something ahead. A curious smile yed across her lips. “Cliff, is that your cousin, or has the wine begun ying tricks on me?”


    Cliff followed Juliet’s gaze and looked over.


    Laney stood at the ss door of the reception area, her face pale, staring vacantly.


    The moment their eyes met, the haze clouding Cliff’s mind from alcohol vanished instantly, as if sshed with cold water. Instinctively, he released Juliet’s hands.


    Without his support, Juliet staggered, nearly copsing before she steadied herself. She didn’t want to cause a scene, especially not on purpose.


    With Laney right there, and knowing how much Cliff valued her, Juliet knew better than to stir trouble.


    However, Kiracked such tact. Spotting Laney, she smirked triumphantly and said, “So you dide. I thought you lost your way.”


    Cliff’s expression turned icy. “You knew she wasing?” he asked.


    “Yes, your assistant mentioned she was bringing you some hangover cure soup,” Kira responded with a sneer. “Earlier, she doubted you and Juliet were…”


    Before she could finish, Cliff interrupted her sharply. “You two, leave now.”


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