Veronica's face tensed slightly as she gently pushed against Cullen's chest. "Let me just—"

"Hold the umbrella," Cullen commanded, cutting her off mid-sentence.

Before she could register what was happening, he'd already swept her off her feet, cradling her body against his chest as he carried her down the rain-slicked steps. The movement was so swift and unexpected that she barely had time to protest. When they reached the bottom, he turned to address the onlookers, still holding her firmly in his arms.

"Gentlemen, I'll be heading out now. Let's connect again soon when schedules permit," he announced with casual confidence.

The business associates who had a close relationship with Cullen exchanged uncomfortable glances. Everyone present was well aware of Veronica's involvement with Dario. The fact that Dario had entrusted her to represent DataPulse Co. at a government-sponsored forum indicated their relationship remained intact.

Cullen had his own girlfriend. Even if he harbored feelings for Veronica, this public display crossed professional boundaries. His actions showed blatant disregard for Dario—a powerful man with extensive connections who was not someone to be antagonized.

Despite their discomfort, the businessmen plastered awkward smiles on their faces. "Of course. Looking forward to it," they responded diplomatically.

With so many witnesses, Veronica felt trapped in the uncomfortable situation. "Thank you for your assistance, Mr. Dennis," she said coolly. "We're off the steps now. I can manage on my—"

Cullen continued carrying her toward his waiting vehicle, seemingly deaf to her protests. He glanced down at her with an assessing look. "You've definitely lost weight."

"You really shouldn't—"

Before she could finish, Cullen's driver spotted them approaching. He stood attentively beside the luxury vehicle, his eyes widening slightly when he noticed Veronica in his employer's arms.

"Mrs. Dennis?" he blurted out in surprise before quickly recovering his composure and opening the rear door.

Only then did Veronica realize Cullen's full intention was to drive her somewhere. "My car is just over there," she stated firmly, pointing across the lot.

Cullen motioned for his driver to take the umbrella from Veronica before depositing her onto the plush leather backseat. "You've injured your ankle," he pointed out matter-of-factly. "Are you certain you can drive safely?"

"I can easily call someone to pick me up," she countered, maintaining her composure.

Just as Cullen opened his mouth to respond, Maverick approached the vehicle. "Mr. Dennis," he acknowledged with a formal nod.

Cullen closed the car door and took Veronica's umbrella from his driver. Turning to face Maverick, he offered a calculated smile. "Mr. Harris, you're still here."

Though Maverick knew Veronica was inside, the car's tinted windows prevented him from seeing her. Redirecting his attention to Cullen, he asked, "Is Ms. Murray with you?"

"Indeed," Cullen confirmed casually. "She's twisted her ankle. I'm taking her to get medical attention."

"I happen to be free at the moment," Maverick offered. "And I actually need to discuss something with Ms. Murray. If it's not an inconvenience, I'd be happy to escort her to the hospital myself."

Cullen released a light chuckle. "What a coincidence. As it happens, we also have matters to discuss. Perhaps another time, Mr. Harris."

Maverick's expression darkened noticeably.

"The weather's quite unpleasant, and you're already soaked, Mr. Harris," Cullen observed with feigned concern. "You should really return to your vehicle and get out of these conditions."

Maverick recognized his powerlessness in this situation, regardless of Cullen's potential ulterior motives regarding Veronica. He nodded curtly, cast one final glance toward the backseat where Veronica sat hidden behind tinted glass, then turned and walked away.

The car's excellent soundproofing prevented Veronica from hearing the exchange between the two men. Nevertheless, she observed Maverick's expression when he looked toward the vehicle, and she wasn't oblivious to his feelings for Niall. Even without hearing their conversation, she could infer the likely reason for his appearance.

Eventually, Veronica stopped paying attention to the men outside. Shifting her focus, she pulled out her phone and dialed quickly, arranging for someone to collect her. While speaking, she examined her ankle, carefully rotating it to test its mobility.

Feeling relieved that the injury was minor and she could walk without significant discomfort, she ended her call, tucked away her phone, and without hesitation opened the car door to step outside into the rain.