Chapter 778

Josie was sure Livia had truly moved on.

"Don't sweat it. I'm diving back into work tomorrow. Men just slow down my hustle, and I'm not letting any guy mess with my cash flow."

Josie mentioned, "My mom's company is working with ours, but she has no idea I'm the brains behind the pharmaceutical empire. If you're chatting with her, don't forget to keep the Sammuel project under wraps for me."

"Liv, your folks don't know about the Sammuel project?"

"Not a clue. I can't afford another slip-up, and I don't want my parents stressing over it if they find out."

Livia nodded, "Got it. I'll keep the Sammuel project on the down-low."

Their eyes met, both understanding the unspoken bond of having each other's backs.

Josie then shifted to the latest buzz about their company, both of them lighting up, all business and ambition.

...

After work, Oliver swung by to pick up Josie for dinner.

She jumped into the car.

"So, where are we heading for dinner tonight?"

"The Forest Café."

Josie was intrigued, "That's a thing? Eating out in the actual forest?"

"Yep, and there are friendly animals, plus gorgeous fields of flowers and lakes."

Josie was all ears, imagining the scenic beauty.

Oliver always made sure they hit new spots unless the food was too good to resist a second visit.

As they cruised along, Josie filled Oliver in on the day's drama with Finley leaving with Shay in his arms.

"What about you? Would you take Shay's word over mine, especially if I had scratches to prove my side?" Josie asked.

"I'm on your team. I

"Of course I'd believe you. Scratch

or no

know you don't start trouble unless provoked, Oliver assured her

Josie sighed, "It's just that Finley's heart

if Liviset on Shay, not Livia. Everet

if Livia matters to him, it's nowhere near Shay's level

"Finley's clueless in love, totally

Finley was making a mistake

blinded Oliver said bluntly, et

the pretentious Shay.

With a laugh, Oliver added, "He's got nothing on me. I know quality when I see it."

Josie chuckled, "Oh, stop patting yourself on the back."

"Josie, just telling it how it is. You're kind, understanding, a real catch."

Josie teased, "Oliver, did you munch on candy today? You're extra sweet."

Oliver hit the brakes and turned to her, "How would you know if you haven't had a taste? Want to find out?"

Josie quickly deflected, "Just drive, I'm starving."

Oliver got the hint, knowing Josie was dodging his flirtation.

As they drove through the lush greenery, Josie's curiosity about the Forest Café grew.

They passed peacocks and a deer sipping water, making Josie even more excited, "Wow, this place is gorgeous."

They parked and strolled hand in hand toward the café, noticing others doing the

same.

"Josie, if you love it here, I could buy it for you," Oliver joked, half-seriously.

"No need," Josie felt overwhelmed by his generosity, "You've already done so much."

In the crowd, Josie caught sight of a familiar face.