After we made our decision, I talked to Ryan about the suppliers Benjamin had been working hard to keep.I invited Benjamin to join us in the discussion to lay out a more flexible strategy. Of course, we could only make arrangements after confirming the project with Echelon Group.That evening, Benjamin and Carol led all our employees to Gourmet Utopia, where they had reserved the largest private room available. It was fancier than my previous employee dinners, and all the staff were excited.Gourmet Utopia was known for hosting parties and banquets, so most of its customers came in groups. On my way there, I received a phone call from Atlas. He asked me where the dinner was, and I told him.“Hmm…” He reminded me, “No drinking, okay?”“Why do you care? I’m having a good time with my employees tonight.”I was happy that he sounded jealous.He asked, “Well, you’re mine, right?” I giggled and could picture him smiling on the other end. “Alright, I have to go. Don’t stay up too

Atlas became busy with work, and his calls and messages became less frequent. I felt lonely and wondered if he had forgotten about me. However, just when I’d feel doubt, he’d reach out as if ensuring I didn’t forget him, either. His sweet gestures reminded me he was still present in my life.Before I could set up a meeting with Lauren, she called and asked to meet me. We seemed to know each other’s thoughts. I had to admit that she was capable and had thrived in the “strange circles” in Foswood. She could dig up dirty little secrets about any VIPs in town. Lauren had discovered that Echelon Group was currying favors with local bureaucrats to secure the prized plot of land. Matthew appeared to be their obedient lackey, and Melanie now led Ardora Construction. She used their association with Echelon Group to win as many contracts as possible.The duplex project appeared to be a real deal. Lauren said, “Integra was the original contractor for the development, and the duplexes

The unexpected female voice startled me, and I quickly looked at the caller ID. I was puzzled when I noticed it was an unfamiliar number.“I-I’m sorry! I-I was just…” I blushed as I started to explain myself, realizing my previous words were harsh. “I don’t recognize your voice. May I ask who this is?”The person on the other end didn't answer my question. Instead, she asked in a distant but authoritative tone, "Is this Chloe?”"Yes, it's me.""Prepare some steel window designs and bring them to ATL Empire’s Design Division," the woman’s voice was cold and commanding, leaving no room for doubt. "Come in person.""All right." Although I agreed, I couldn’t shake off my unease. I wondered who the woman was and why she was so cold.I rushed to the technical department and got them to print my designs. Then, I brought the quality inspection certificate and other validation documents before driving to ATL Empire’s Design Division.Design Division was in the main building but was an in

I smirked, knowing dealing with Melanie was a piece of cake. However, I decided to keep a low profile after signing the contract as it would make anyone envious. It wouldn't be wise to stir the pot at this sensitive time.As for using Melanie, I would have to wait for the right moment.Although Tuesday was my birthday, I might have forgotten it if my mother hadn’t prepared a special breakfast. Ava woke up early and sang a birthday song with her childlike voice. Her voice was so heartwarming that I felt an indescribable mix of emotions.Matthew was supposed to be away on a business trip on this day last year. However, he returned in the evening with a necklace, a complete set of makeup items, and his wishes. We even went to Al Dente, a well-known restaurant, for dinner with the whole family.Looking back now, I wondered if he had been on a business trip or if he had been spending time with Melanie.I chuckled bitterly, feeling a lump in my throat. I lowered my head and bit into a w

He stood by the car as I got out with Ava, and he approached us, saying, “You’re back!”My dad had a strong impression of Atlas, mainly since the latter had visited my dad at the hospital twice. My mom said, “Hello, Mr. Atlas, please come in! I’m sorry if we kept you waiting.”“That’s okay, Mrs. Laura. I just arrived,” he said with a smile. When he saw me carrying Ava, he asked, “Can I help?”I was surprised as I stood rooted, not knowing what to say. However, Atlas had already approached me, saying, “Let me hold her.”His gesture made me feel like crying for some reason. He reached out for Ava, but it seemed he didn’t know how to take her from my arms.“I can manage,” I said.“You can give her to me. You look like you’re struggling,” Atlas insisted, and I could only pass Ava to him.From his stiff and awkward posture, I knew he had never held a child. Still, he was earnest, like he was handling a delicate item. I almost laughed at his awkwardness and went to help adjust his pos