The March rains in the city grew more persistent as the days went by. Veronica made a point to attend several more conference events throughout the week, crossing paths with Niall on two separate occasions. Notably, Cullen was absent both times.
After one particular event, the sky darkened and rain began to pour. Veronica realized with annoyance that she'd left her umbrella in her car. Making her way toward the main entrance, she decided to wait until the downpour eased before venturing outside.
Just before reaching the door, she spotted Niall engaged in conversation with someone. The moment Niall noticed Veronica, her pleasant smile evaporated, replaced by a coolness that spoke volumes.
At that precise moment, Cullen appeared beside Niall, umbrella in hand. The timing made it clear he'd come specifically to collect her. With a gesture that didn't go unnoticed by onlookers, he removed his coat and gently placed it around Niall's shoulders.
Several bystanders—also trapped by the rain—watched the scene with undisguised admiration. Some even sighed audibly at the romantic display. Only then did Cullen spot Veronica standing nearby. He froze momentarily, their eyes meeting across the crowded space.
Veronica maintained a perfectly blank expression, giving away nothing of her inner thoughts. Cullen quickly averted his gaze, readjusted his grip on the umbrella, and guided Niall toward the exit.
The wind had picked up considerably, sending sheets of rain sideways. With Cullen's coat draped protectively over her, Niall remained perfectly dry despite the umbrella's limited coverage—a thoughtful detail that wasn't lost on Veronica. Within moments, the couple disappeared through the entrance, leaving Veronica behind.
Several minutes later, a familiar figure approached from the parking area. Cullen's driver appeared, umbrella in hand. "Mrs. Dennis," he said respectfully, "Mr. Dennis asked me to bring you this."
Veronica didn't reach for it. "That won't be necessary. Please take it back."
Cook's words echoed in her mind—that Cullen had agreed to maintain civility with her solely for Sabrina's sake. His show of concern at the seminar, and now this umbrella gesture while Niall wasn't looking, only reinforced that reality. If Niall felt comfortable allowing Cullen to send Veronica an umbrella, it spoke volumes about the security she felt in their relationship. Clearly, she saw Veronica as no threat whatsoever.
The driver shifted uncomfortably. "But—"
"He won't mind," Veronica cut him off firmly. "You can go."
Seeing her resolve, the driver finally retreated with the umbrella, not returning again.
The rain continued to fall heavily. Veronica glanced at her watch, weighing her options between waiting longer or simply making a dash for her car. As twilight began to settle, a familiar voice interrupted her calculations.
"Come on. I'll give you a ride."
She turned to find Marco standing beside her, umbrella at the ready.
Given the late hour and relentless downpour, Veronica decided against refusing his offer. "Thank you."
Marco began removing his coat, clearly intending to place it over her shoulders, but Veronica quickly stopped him. "No need. I keep spare clothes in my car. If I get wet, I can change."
Though he paused at her words, Marco didn't press the issue. Instead, as they stepped out into the rain together, he positioned himself between her and the wind, subtly shielding her from the worst of the elements.
As they descended the steps, Veronica asked conversationally, "Mr. Valerie, were you also attending the conference?"
In truth, he wasn't there for the conference at all. Nate had mentioned that Veronica had been attending events throughout the week, and Marco realized they hadn't discussed work matters—or anything else—in some time. Though he wouldn't admit it openly, he had missed her company and had come specifically hoping to see her.
Noticing the way her ears had turned pink from the cold, he responded with a noncommittal "Mm" before adding, "Do you have time later? Would you like to grab something to eat?"
Veronica considered the offer. He had come to her aid, and they did have work matters that could use discussion. A meal together seemed reasonable enough.
"Sure," she replied simply, as they continued toward the parking lot through the falling rain.