Chapter 119
Chapter 119:
As the party went on, one business partner—clearly emboldened by alcohol—leaned forward and insisted that Brinley join him for three shots of whiskey. Brinley couldn’t hold her liquor, yet she understood that refusing might come across as rude.
She steeled herself, fingers brushing the rim of the glass as she prepared to force it down—when another hand slid in ahead of hers and lifted the drink away.
“My wife doesn’t hold her liquor. I’ll take the three shots for her.” Austin’s calm but firm voice cut through the chatter.
Brinley blinked up at him, caught off guard by his sudden appearance. Standing tall with effortless poise, Austin commanded the room’s attention in an instant, his presence impossible to ignore.
“Mr. Moore?” The man’s surprise deepened when Austin appeared at Brinley’s side, casually taking the drinks meant for her. He gave a respectful nod, a touch of awe in his tone. “I didn’t expect you to be here p>
Austin’s response was evenly calm. “I’m here to pick up my wife p>
With that, he tipped his head back and swallowed all three shots in one smooth motion, never flinching.
Brinley’s gaze lingered on him, warmth blooming in her chest. She knew how much he disliked these social gatherings, yet he accepted the drinks without losing his temper, careful not to make things difficult for her. He was showing her—in the quietest way—just how deeply he respected her.
“Thank you,” she murmured, emotion lacing her whisper as she looked up at him.
“You’re welcome.” Austin’s reply carried a gentle warmth, his gaze softening as it lingered on her. “It’s late. Let’s go home p>
𝗗o𝘄ոlo𝖺𝘥 𝘗𝘋Fѕ 𝘧𝗿𝖾е о𝗇
Brinley gave a quiet nod, and the two of them slipped out of the party together.
During the drive, she rested her temple against the cool glass, her eyelids growing heavy with fatigue. A faint flush colored her cheeks, the alcohol making her head swim.
The car remained hushed, broken only by the mellow hum of music drifting from the speakers.
After some time, Brinley became aware that Austin’s gaze kept flicking toward her.
She slowly opened her eyes, catching him in the act.
“What is it?” she asked softly.
“Nothing,” he said, a faint smile tugging at his lips. “I just couldn’t help thinking how stunning you look tonight p>
Feigning composure, Brinley turned her face toward the window, watching the glittering nightscape blur past.
“Don’t drive yourself to the limit next time,” Austin said, his voice threaded with quiet concern. “Work matters, but your health matters more p>
“I know,” Brinley murmured, warmth spreading through her chest at his words.
The car rolled past the villa gates when her phone buzzed. Corbin’s name lit up the screen.
“Brinley, you won’t believe the latest talk going around,” Corbin said brightly. “They’re saying Colin made a foolish choice—that he’s clinging to Milly, who’s all charm and no substance, while overlooking you, a true talent p>
Brinley was amused. “That’s enough gossip, Corbin. Get some rest. Bye p>
After she ended the call, Austin shifted toward her, his brow creasing slightly. “What’s the matter p>
“Just some silly gossip,” Brinley replied, unfastening her seatbelt as she pushed open the car door. “They’re saying Colin made a foolish choice—that he’s clinging to Milly, who’s all charm and no substance, while overlooking me, a true talent p>