Chapter 1523: Chapter 1523

“Pleasure to meet you, Mr. McMllian.” Mabel greeted with a well-mannered smile that seemed to convey a depth of knowledge, “My granddad used to speak so highly of you. Now that I see you in person, you indeed carry yourself with such distinction. He always regretted not having the chance to play another game of chess with you. If you find the time, may I have the honor of playing in his stead?”

Bluno, who stood nearby, couldn't hide his disdain as he snorted in amusement, sparing no mercy as he exposed her, “If I'm not mistaken, that's exactly what you said to Mr. Albright just a moment ago.”

She had claimed that her grandfather's biggest regret was not having the chance to play another game of chess with Mr. Albright.

“Young lady, it's not good to fib at such a young age.”

“What fib? My dear departed husband always kept two chess companions closest to his heart: Mr.

McMllian and Mr. Albright. What would a youngster like you know? Now step aside,” Amanda retorted with a mix of scorn and dissatisfaction that only someone of her advanced years could get away with when addressing a man of Bluno's stature.

However, when she turned to Phillip, her tone softened considerably, “Phillip, let me raise a toast to you on behalf of my late husband, shall I?”

“Oh no, no need. I can’t partake in spirits anymore; my personal physician has forbidden it. No alcohol, no spicy food. I must stick to the doctor's orders.”

“It seems this young doctor of yours knows their stuff, to keep you so in line.” Amanda didn't press the issue further, but added, “Speaking of which, I’ve been feeling quite worn out lately, as if my body can't keep up. Perhaps when you’re free, you could introduce this doctor to me?”

“She’s very busy, and it was a huge favor to have her treat me.” Phillip was reluctant to burden his precious granddaughter-in-law with more work, “I think it's just your age catching up to you. If there’s no serious ailment, any general practitioner should suffice.”

A tad embarrassed, but still smiling, Amanda conceded, “You're right.”

“I better go greet the birthday boy; I've already arrived late as it is. Please excuse me.”

Despite Phillip’s words, a number of guests were still eager to hobnob with him, seizing on this rare opportunity. His presence was a golden chance they didn't want to miss.

Phillip quickened his pace, wishing he could fly over to Eugene’s side, all the while wondering where on earth Romeo was. It was already late, and he was nowhere to be seen, not there to offer him some much-needed assistance.

“Alright, break it up. Don’t scare Phillip away now. We’re here to celebrate Mr. Albright’s birthday, not to talk shop,” President Barton knew exactly why these people were hounding Phillip - they were hunting for a chance to collaborate with the McMllian Corporation. Crowding around Phillip would only annoy him.

“President Barton, we just wanted to say hello to Phillip,” a persistent guest insisted, champagne glass in hand.

“Yeah, just a quick word, and then we’ll be on our way.”

“We haven’t had the chance to thank Phillip properly for the big favor the McMllian Corporation did for us.”

“The McMllian Corporation isn’t under his management anymore. If you have business, go talk to Romeo.” President Barton steered Phillip away by the shoulders, “If I hadn’t spotted you from afar and come to your rescue, you'd still be stuck in the same spot.”

“Yes, yes, you’ve got the keen eye. Where’s my darling granddaughter-in-law?”

“There you go, just as I thought. You're here to see Arabella,” President Barton chuckled, well aware that the presence of these old timers was due in no small part to that young lady.