Chapter 58

A Subtle Battle I was surprised to see him.

Wasn’t he supposed to be in Operose for business? Why was he here now rather than in the arms of his mistress? I remained silent, observing him.

He smiled softly and asked, “Honey, what should we have for lunch? “I haven’t decided yet!” I replied casually, showing no hint of surprise.

He walked closer.

“We talked until really late last night.

I rushed back this morning because I didn’t want you to worry.

I didn’t even have time for breakfast.

Let’s go for an early lunch, and we’ll have whatever you want.

It’s on me!” I watched him act charmingly.

Oddly enough, I couldn’t get angry.

It was as if I were having a different pleasure, a sensation.

Out of nowhere, I thought about Atlas.

“Did you drink?” He asked, probably noticing the scent around me.

But he did not smell like alcohol himself, despite attending a late–night social gathering.

“Yeah.” I said, “How about the Italian restaurant opposite Glenmarie Plaza?” His eyes narrowed briefly, then he nodded, “Sure, whatever my wife wants!” Life was full of dramatic twists.

I had not expected to see Lauren as soon as we entered the restaurant.

When I saw her again, I paid close attention to her.

She was dressed elegantly in a fashionable knit dress.

She wasn’t an ordinary competitor in this game.

I had a secret satisfaction when I thought about Melanie’s shallowness.

This game appeared to be stacked in my favor.

Seeing her again today gave me a good feeling.

She could be of use to me.

Matthew was surprisingly open about introducing me, and I lowered my guard, politely greeting her.

After we sat down, I commented to Matthew.

“Ms.

Burton seems to be a very competent person.

I’m quite impressed with her!” “Being overly cunning is not necessarily a good thing for a woman,”

Matthew replied casually.

“I prefer someone like my honey–understanding and virtuous.” Are you saying I’m foolish?” I addressed his comment.

ghed, reaching out to pinch my nose.

“Silly girl, who were you drinking with last night?” +15 BONUS “Who do you think?” I countered.

“Besides, you stayed out too.

I need to entertain myself when you’re away on business trips!” I spoke lightly, as if the topic wasn’t a big deal.

However, my mind wandered to Atlas.

“I won’t be on business trips often.

It was an exceptional situation yesterday!” he explained.

“Where were you guys drinking?” “Ivanna’s place!” I answered casually.

“Did you go to the car dealership yesterday?” I “Huh? I didn’t.

After I visited the construction site, I went straight to Operose.” Matthew clarified.

“Oh! There must’ve been a misunderstanding then!” I said it absentmindedly.

Before we finished eating, Johnson called Matthew to let him know that ATL Empire was holding a meeting at 2 p.m.

Matthew glanced at me and asked about the situation with ATL Empire.

He didn’t invite me to accompany him to the meeting.

Instead, he went with Johnson.

I received a document on my phone after picking up Ava.

It was the ATL Empire’s meeting minutes.

One key point stood out.

All participating companies had to undergo a financial assessment by the end of the month.

It would include a thorough evaluation of the entire organization.

That includes projects, capital, assets, and even personal checks.

This was because this contract covered ATL Empire’s collaborative projects for three years.

ATL Empire’s projects were s supposed to be all government–backed initiatives during that time.

If we secured the contract, we’d significantly boost our business over the next three years.

What surprised me was the emphasis on the new type of thermally broken steel windows, a Tanum Corporation patent My mind was racing with questions.

What did this mean? I quickly looked up the document’s sender, which turned out to be Atlas My heart raced even faster.

Tanum Corporation had an opportunity to improve its reputation.

Unfortunately, the company was in Matthew’s hands.

I knew we could become industry leaders if the company truly capitalized on this opportunity.

This could be a once–in–a–lifetime chance for rapid advancement.

However, that would also mean losing control of Matthew.

+15 BONUS I halled a taxi and rushed home with Ava.

I put on cartoons on TV for her while I quickly prepared food.

I needed to make time to look into our competitors‘ information.

I had to take advantage of this opportunity.

Before I could finish preparing the food, Matthew’s call came in.

He told me to freshen up quickly, as he’d pick me up soon.

We were attending a dinner later this evening.