Chapter 33: Protection

In a split second, Julia’s pupils expanded to their limits, her thoughts freezing in place as she grappled with the bewildering twist of events. But before she could make sense of it all, the man’s fervor intensified, and he forcefully pressed his lips against hers, setting off a whirlwind of wild emotions.

“What’s happening?” Lincoln’s eyes widened to the point of nearly popping out of their sockets. The sight before him was beyond his expectations – his typically poised and self-assured boss was now the recipient of an aggressive and unexpected kiss.

“Jared, let go of my boss this instant!” Lincoln’s fist clenched, striking out at Jared with force.

Reacting swiftly, Julia extended her arm, encircling the man’s slender waist as she executed an abrupt pivot, effectively shielding Jared from the approaching blow aimed by Lincoln.

Caught in a suspended motion, Lincoln’s fist hung in the air, and his eyes transfixed on the intertwined figures that seemed to combine into a protective embr