Chapter 195

The Praises However, before we reached Atticus, I spotted Maddox talking to an older man. I squeezed Ryan’s arm and said, “That man is Maddox O’Connell. Let me say hi to him first.”

I went over to him with a smile, and he recognized me immediately. “Good evening, Ms. Chloe.”

“It’s a pleasure to see you again, sir.” I maintained a respectful demeanor. “I haven’t had the chance to thank you for what you did that evening.”

Calling him “sir” instead of Mr. Maddox was a deliberate move on my part.

“Don’t mention it,” he replied. “Allow me to introduce you to Mr. Mercer Cole.”

Only then did I realize the person he was speaking to was Atticus’s father.

“Nice to meet you, sir. I’m Chloe from Tanum Corporation.”

Mercer gave Maddox a puzzled look, surprised that he’d introduce someone like me to him. However, het soon laughed. “Oh, Tanum Corporation? You’re that young lady who founded it, huh?”

I smiled. I’m surprised that you’ve heard of us. We’re nobodies here.”

Mercer seemed to be in his 60s, but he was in great shape and sported a rosy complexion. His hearty laughter drew attention, and Maddox’s presence only added to the effect.

Noticing our interaction, Atticus quickly turned and made his way toward us.

“We were all nobodies once, young lady. Not to mention that this is a male–dominafed industry. You’ve done well.” Mercer then told Maddox, “She’s amazing. There aren’t many female bosses in our line of work.”

I wasn’t sure if Mercer was trying to impress Maddox.

“Yes, she conducts her business with integrity. I’m impressed,‘ Maddox replied.

“I’m flattered,” I responded, engaging in small talk with them before introducing Ryan.

“I’m glad you could join us, Ms. Chloe, Atticus said as he joined me by my side. “Dad, they’re handling the duplexes at Grandeur Grove.”

“Ah, I see. You should work with her more often. Working with people of integrity can save us a lot of trouble,” Mercer said, looking at me. He added, “But we must always prioritize delivering quality.

Echelon Group’s goal is to satisfy property buyers.”

“Don’t worry, Mr. Mercer, that’s our goal as well,” I said with a smille.

Mercer laughed and told Maddox, “This young lady is going places. You can take my word for it.”

Atticus laughed, too. “Everyone seems to be singing your praises, Ms. Chloe.”

“It’s only because I’m working with you, Mr. Atticus.” Laughter erupted, and those standing nearby joined our conversation. Everyone was eager to impress the Coles.

There was a sudden commotion at the entrance. We turned around to see Atticus walking over there.

Atlas entered, looking suave and handsome, with his arm wrapped around Stella. She looked elegant.

Walking side by side, they were an eye–catching couple. I couldn’t help but think miserably that they were a perfect match.

Someone beside me exclaimed, “Oh my! The CEO of ATL Empire is here too.”

“Weren’t they supposed to be competitors?”

“That’s the spirit. I’ve heard that Mr. Atlas is no ordinary man.”

I nodded at Maddox and Mercer before taking a step back with Ryan. I didn’t want to draw undue attention to myself. Meanwhile, Ryan spotted the CEO of Heartland Estates and went over to greet him.

Matthew appeared next to me. He watched Atticus chat with Atlas and said, “You and Atlas almost got 1. me. See that? He has a girlfriend, so don’t embarrass yourself.”

I glanced at him with a half–smile, then turned and walked away to join Ryan. Halfway there, I was stopped by several women. “You’re Chloe Hartz, aren’t you?”

That woman who spoke was well–dressed and attractive, but she looked at me snobbishly.

“Hi, I’m Chloe. May I know-

“Liora Thompson.” Her cold voice was tinged with arrogance.

Liora Thompson? I thought for a moment. Thompson. Could she be…