Chapter 25 Run Into Him
Latoya’s smile was soft, yet it held a subtle power, a skill she possessed in swaying hearts and minds. Esteban, who had always admired her, found himself drawn to her gentle influence.
“Esteban, thank you!” Latoya’s laughter was bright, her demeanor both gentle and deeply moving.
Latoya adored being praised by Esteban.
A smile touched Esteban’s lips as well. Though Latoya’s beauty might not rival Maryanne’s, Maryanne’s sharp edges and perpetual gloom made her seem stiff and unwelcoming. He much preferred Latoya’s warmth.
“Cristofer, Esteban, I worry about Maryanne. Since returning from the countryside at eighteen, she hasn’t pursued further education. Everyone here is a titan in the business world. I fear she might inadvertently cross someone and face harsh consequences.”
Esteban scoffed, “Why should we care if she gets into trouble?”
He glanced at Latoya’s compassionate expression and smiled, “Latoya, even though you became entangled in Maryanne’s marriage, it’s not your fault. Cristofer was the one who took a liking to you. If anyone’s to blame, it’s him. So don’t shoulder the guilt.”
The one who had callously hurt Maryanne’s feelings was Cristofer.
Latoya feigned a touch of guilt, lowering her head and falling silent. She needed to devise a way to spur Maryanne into action tonight.
Cristofer’s face turned dangerously grim.
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Chapter 25 Run Into Him
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The air grew thick with tension, heavy and suffocating.
Esteban, sensing his fury, wisely fell silent. He turned to Cristofer, “By the way, Cristofer, word is that Geovanni, the CEO of Nebula Group, will be arriving soon. Didn’t you want to meet the Nebula Group’s heiress? You can connect with her through Geovanni. Securing the new energy partnership with Nebula Group is crucial.”
Cristofer’s brow furrowed, his dark eyes deep and unreadable. “Geovanni is no pushover. We’ll wait and see how things unfold.”
Tonight, the company that secured the most projects–aside from Nebula Group–would be his.
Inside the banquet hall, luxury was palpable, the glittering lights almost blinding, as titans of industry mingled.
Conversations buzzed, greetings echoed, and every corner hummed with energy.
Maryanne slipped into a quiet corner, finding a seat.
Her presence was undeniable, drawing glances from those around her.
Yet, lost in her phone, she seemed lost in her own world, making others hesitant to disturb her.
“Boss, I’m here.” Maggie sat beside Maryanne.
Maryanne looked up at her. “Has Geovanni arrived yet?”
“Still haven’t spotted him, Boss. Probably hasn’t arrived yet. He said he’d send a message when he does,” Maggie replied, scanning the crowd fruitlessly.
“Boss, let me get you something to eat.”
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Chapter 25 Run Into Him
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Maryanne wasn’t hungry. The quiet corner offered a rare moment of peace, and she intended to savor it for a little while longer.
Just then, her phone vibrated with an incoming call from Leandro. She stood up. “I’m not hungry. I’ll take this call in the lounge. Let me know when the main event starts.”
“Sure thing, Boss,” Maggie replied, settling into a more relaxed posture.
Maryanne navigated through the throng of people and found a
secluded lounge. Since becoming pregnant, she often felt stifled, short of breath. Opening all the windows, she welcomed the fresh breeze that immediately eased her discomfort.
She settled into a chair and returned Leandro’s call.
“Leandro,” her voice held a gentle warmth.
Leandro’s tone was filled with concern, “Hi, Mimi. Feeling any better lately? Grandpa mentioned you’ve started taking the reins at the company.”
A flicker of pain crossed Maryanne’s eyes. “Yes. I’m keeping my identity under wraps for now. I need to investigate Timothy’s death. It’s been four years; the person responsible must be right here in Summerville.”
Leandro replied reassuringly, “Understood. If you need anything, just have Geovanni handle it. Take your time getting settled in. I’ll be back in about three months. Look after yourself, and wait for me.”
A soft smile touched Maryanne’s lips. “Okay.”
After ending the call, a sense of warmth spread through her chest. Family support was the greatest comfort.
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Chapter 25 Run Into Him
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Lost in thought, gazing out the window, Maryanne didn’t notice the lounge door swing open.
A man stood silhouetted in the doorway, clad in a sharp black suit that accentuated his tall, striking frame. His handsome face held a mischievous glint, lending him an air of dangerous charm.
Maryanne’s expression instantly turned cold. “Mr. Jimenez, you’re in the wrong place. Aren’t you?”