Briony sent a generous digital bonus to the company group chat, and when Hannah snagged the biggest share, she cheered out loud with delight.

"Let's clock out early today and have dinner together-my treat!" Briony announced as she stepped out of her office, smiling at everyone.

"Briony, you're the best!" Hannah jumped up from her desk and made a beeline for Briony, arms outstretched for a dramatic hug-

James's eyes widened. He quickly stepped in front of Briony, holding out a hand in warning, "Hey now, let's not get too excited!"

Hannah stopped short, giving James a puzzled look. "Mr. Delaney, are you... declaring your territory?"

James hesitated. The truth was, he was just worried that Hannah's enthusiasm might accidentally hurt his goddaughter. But Briony's pregnancy was still top secret-absolutely no one could know.

So, James decided to just roll with it.

"That's right! You heard me I'm Briony's official bodyguard now!" he said with great seriousness, waving Hannah off. "You better watch yourself. Sure, you're a girl, but our Bryn's got universal charm-no one's immune! So do us all a favor and keep your distance."

Hannah just stared at him, speechless.

Briony could tell James was only worried Hannah might bump into her belly. She personally thought he was being a little over the top, but since he was just looking out for her as the baby's godfather, she didn't argue.

Since Briony said nothing, Hannah took her silence as agreement.

glint in Hannah's eyes as she glanced between the two of them, a hint of playful

of the studio staff couldn't resist joining in on the

whistled, "Wow, Mr. Delaney, that was a

man! Keep it up. Maybe you'll be our

the office's resident jokester, still spoke with a heavy Cantonese accent despite being over fifty. "James, if you've got good news soon, don't forget to bring us some wedding sweets,

little embarrassed. He rubbed the tip of his nose, his gaze darting away as he

awkwardness just made everyone laugh

up and caught

Is he blushing?

walked over to the dog

get to

opened a can of dog food

her palm, tail wagging

barked softly

gently stroking its head, her eyes

the studio buzzed with laughter and good cheer,

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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