Chapter 903: The Show Begins

Chapter 903: The Show Begins

Ayan responded with a faint acknowledgment and glanced at Kian with

a subtle expression. His tone was indifferent as he inquired, "Any

updates from him?"

Kian shook his head, "Not yet. After leaving the apartment, he took a

cab to grab a meal and then wandered around for a bit. Since he

doesn't need to wait around the museum today, he seemed to be

enjoying some personal time. However, I suspect he might be doing

this just to throw us off or to shake off anyone following him."

Kian wasn't entirely sure, but he couldn't think of any other reasons

beyond this speculation.

Ayan let out a disinterested snort, his voice calm as he continued, "He's

not that clever. If he were, he wouldn't have returned to Preston's side

to work despite knowing that Preston is in trouble. He was likely

prompted by Preston, a reminder that someone is tailing him. Perhaps

he's trying to confuse us."

Ayan's derisive gaze carried a hint of indifference as he spoke, his

fingers lightly tapping on the tabletop. Clad in black suit pants, his legs

elegantly crossed, he leaned back in the leather chair.

A faint, almost imperceptible curve graced his lips, and his voice held a

cold, composed tone, "If he enjoys acting clever, then let him have his

way. We'll play along and let the ones watching Quintus cooperate in

his little show. It will make him lower his guard. Right now, Preston can't

return to Hance, but he doesn't want to let go of his partnership with

Cora."

Ayan's voice remained even, his gaze half-lidded as he continued, "I

suspect he'll either try to persuade or threaten Cora through Quintus, or

he'll find a way for Quintus to personally deliver Cora to Flento. Both

methods require them to meet Cora in person. So, why rush?"

Just wait.

Sooner or later, the moment will come. There's no need to hurry.

After all, compared to Preston, Ayan was the one feeling more urgency.

Online posts questioning Preston's actions had flooded various

platforms, easily accessible on television and smartphones without

even needing a search.

That's exactly what Ayan wanted — Cora needed to see those doubts.

Once she realizes she can't achieve her goals with Preston, she'll

reevaluate her situation.

Ayan's half-narrowed eyes showed a trace of icy amusement. He

casually reached for a cigarette, but before he could light it, Kian quietly

reminded him, "Mr. Simpson, Mrs. Simpson asked me to remind you to

smoke less.”

Ayan's hand holding the cigarette paused in midair. His eyebrows

furrowed slightly, and he turned his cold gaze toward Kian. The scrutiny

lasted for several moments.

He finally asked, a hint of mockery in his tone, "What did she give you

to make you so obedient to her? Hmm?"

His voice carried a clear undertone of amusement, but Kian quickly

explained, "Nothing. Mrs. Simpson is just concerned about your well-

being, so she asked me to remind you."

Ayan chuckled and didn't say anything further. He seemed to be in a

good mood since he immediately extinguished the cigarette.

Taking a deep, noiseless breath, Kian mentally reminded himself that

Mrs. Simpson was indeed the most formidable figure. With a single

sentence, she could command Mr. Simpson's obedience. He resolved

to be even more attentive to Camille from now on.

After Ayan extinguished the cigarette, Kian discreetly disposed of the

ashtray. He then spoke softly, “Mr. Simpson, there's another matter.

Sean mentioned that he'd like to meet you. Should I arrange a

meeting?"

Ayan declined, "No need. Have him tell you whatever he wants."

Kian nodded, "Alright, I'll reply to him."

Kian was about to leave when Ayan stopped him, "Wait."

Kian turned to face Ayan, who said, "When you meet Sean, don't be

overly aggressive. He specifically requested to see me. I'm not sure if

he wants to negotiate or if he has something substantial to discuss. You

can guide him and remind him that he can ask for anything as long as

he has something to offer.”

Kian understood and nodded, "Understood. I know how to handle it."

Ayan gave a nonchalant "Hmm" before waving Kian off, allowing him to

leave.

When Kian met with Sean, he conveyed Ayan's message accurately.

Sean's face registered confusion and contemplation for a while before

he told Kian, "I'l think about it."

Kian followed Ayan's advice, not pressuring Sean or trying to pry out

more information. Instead, he gave Sean the space and time to think.

Kian didn't linger with Sean for too long. Camille had made lunch plans

with Ayan, so Kian needed to book a restaurant and prepare the dishes

in advance.

His thoughtful arrangement earned Camille's praise over lunch, and

this small gesture resulted in a raise from Ayan.

Given the choice, Kian would prefer to assist Camille — it was simpler,

lighter, and came with a bonus.

After Camille finished lunch with Ayan, he instructed Kian, "Drive

Camille back to the museum."

Once Camille entered the museum, Ayan directed Kian, "Go to the

airport.”

Kian blinked, slightly puzzled, and asked, "Mr. Simpson, why go to the

airport at this time?"

Ayan didn't answer directly, only saying, "Just start driving."

Kian nodded and didn't press further.

After nearly an hour's drive, they arrived at the airport. Ayan remained

in the back seat, not getting out of the car. Instead, he instructed Kian,

"Go pick someone up."

Kian hesitated, then cautiously asked, "Mr. Simpson, who am I picking

up?"

Ayan leaned back, his brow slightly furrowed. He replied in a

disinterested tone, "The flight from Flento to Hance. Check it yourself."

Kian nodded and walked into the airport's arrivals hall.

When he saw who Ayan wanted him to pick up, he understood why he

had been reinstated as Ayan's driver today. Kian had usually been the

one driving when Ayan dined with Camille. Even if there was work after

the meal, Kian would take Ayan directly to the workplace, ensuring

Camille's mealtime was undisturbed.

Kian was a highly professional secretary, and he immediately

suppressed his surprise. He approached Eileen and took her luggage,

saying, "Hello, Miss Khan. Mr. Simpson asked me to pick you up."

Eileen's attire exuded allure, her figure was strikingly attractive. In a

place as crowded as an airport, she inevitably attracted attention

wherever she went.

However, she was wearing a mask, so she remained unrecognized.

This was the first time she had appeared so conspicuously in public

since so many things had happened.

She offered Kian a gentle smile and spoke in the same soothing tone,

“Long time no see, Kian. You still look as handsome as ever. Do you

have a girlfriend now?"

In Kian's mind, Yessica's image briefly appeared. A hint of tenderness

flashed through his eyes, but he replied with a faint smile, "Miss Khan,

you're teasing me."

Eileen wasn't particularly interested in Kian's situation and only

exchanged a few casual greetings.

She didn't jest with Kian but instead turned to him and asked, "Where's

Ayan?"

"He's waiting in the car, Miss Khan."

Kian pushed the luggage cart, leading Eileen toward the parking lot.

Kian couldn't help but feel a mixture of surprise and astonishment deep

down. Why had Eileen suddenly returned? He knew about Eileen's

situation in Flento , and he was aware that she had gone to find

Preston. So why had she come back to Hance now?

The confusion in Kian's mind was growing, but he decided to put a stop

to his thoughts and not dwell on it any further.

When they reached the parking spot, he opened the rear door for

Eileen, then quietly informed Ayan, "Mr. Simpson, Miss Khan has

arrived.”

Ayan opened his eyes, his gaze remaining unchanging as he shifted it

toward Eileen. She offered a gentle smile, her voice retaining its

softness, "Ayan, it's been a while. Are you doing well?"

Ayan's expression remained subdued, devoid of any obvious emotion.

His tone was almost emotionless as he responded, "Get in the car."

Eileen sat in the car, taking a seat next to Ayan in the back. They

maintained a comfortable distance, yet the fragrance of her perfume

enveloped the car. Ayan's expression darkened as he wrinkled his

brows, a veil of darkness settling over his otherwise handsome face.

Observing this through the rearview mirror, Kian's lips curved slightly.