Asher laughed a lot while talking with Alicia. She seemed to know how to entertain others. Even their conversation, which was supposed to be about work, shifted to talking about their teenage years.Here, Asher mostly stayed silent, listening to Alicia who kept talking about herself. The changes in her facial expressions, tone of voice, and even laughter blended as time passed."You know, Asher, ever since my vanilla milk had a tiny bug in it, I haven't liked vanilla," Alicia said.Asher responded with enthusiasm. "Really? So, what do you like now?"Alicia sipped her caramel latte for a moment. Her brain seemed to be working hard to figure out what she liked now. After a moment, Alicia smiled meaningfully. "Money," she said, followed by a short laugh.Asher laughed too, agreeing with what Alicia said. Nowadays, money is indeed more valuable. Without money, life would be hard and perpetually stressful."Why are you laughing? I'm not wrong, am I? Just imagine if you don't have money, yo
"Thank you for driving me home, Asher. I'm sorry if I talked too much today."Alicia smiled softly at Asher. Asher returned her smile and nodded in agreement."Be careful on the way home!"Asher nodded. "Thank you for keeping me company, Alicia. I hope the project you're working on goes well! I have to go now." Asher got into his car, and it drove away from Alicia's mansion.Kailos, who also came along, unintentionally made a statement that made Asher pause. "It seems you spend a lot of time with Miss Alicia, Sir.""We're just discussing work, Kailos."Kailos bowed apologetically, visible in the rearview mirror. "Forgive me, Sir, if I was out of line.""It's okay, Kailos," Asher replied calmly.After a while, Kailos reminded him, "There is a list of investment requests from small companies, Sir. They hope to collaborate with Dixon Corporation.""Alright, send the company data to my email," Asher replied without hesitation. "Right away, Sir," replied Kailos, taking out his phone to se
Asher stepped into the large conference room, accompanied by Aberon and Wilson. Across the long oak table, Cody Halbert sat with a tired and desperate expression. Mr. Tjoe, Asher's lawyer, sat beside Asher, ready to provide legal advice.The room felt tense. Bright lights illuminated the documents scattered on the table, while outside, gray clouds covered the sky, adding to the heavy atmosphere in the room.Asher sat calmly, staring directly into Cody's eyes. There was a palpable tension between them, two men with different goals yet bound by the same situation. Aberon, sitting next to Asher, offered a quiet gesture of support."Thank you for taking the time to meet with us, Mr. Cody Halbert," Asher opened the conversation with a measured tone. Cody nodded slowly, while Mr. Tjoe jotted something down in his notepad."Of course, Mr. Asher," Cody replied, his voice slightly trembling. "I hope we can find a mutually beneficial solution."Cody took a deep breath before continuing, "Actual
The Halbert Company was now officially owned by Asher. He felt a sense of satisfaction in acquiring something from those who had once betrayed and insulted him. After completing the purchase, the atmosphere in the Dixon Company's office, particularly in the meeting room, was quite serious. Aberon, Wilson, and Kailos sat around the large conference table. Papers were scattered across the table, and several laptops were open, displaying presentations and data related to the upcoming charity event. Asher sat at the head of the table, leading the discussion with deep focus."This charity event is very important," Aberon began the discussion. "The orphanage where Asher was once placed holds many memories and valuable lessons. I want to ensure this event goes well and has a positive impact."Asher nodded in agreement. "I agree, Dad. I want this event not only to provide material assistance but also to involve our clients and employees so they can understand the significance of this charity
Asher's thoughts turned to the social activities that had become a regular part of the company's agenda. He sat in his large leather chair while Kailos sat across from him. On the table were stacks of documents and a laptop displaying a presentation of the Dixon Company's planned social activities."Kailos, how is the progress on the usual social event invitations?" Asher asked, opening the discussion."We've sent invitations to all clients and employees. The response has been very positive. Many are enthusiastic about participating, especially since the event will be held at an orphanage that holds historical significance for the company," Kailos replied with a small smile."Excellent. I want to ensure everything runs smoothly and has a positive impact. We also need to make sure that all activities are well planned so that participants can truly benefit," Asher said, his eyes on the laptop screen displaying the detailed event plan."Mr. Asher. We are also preparing all logistical nee
The atmosphere at the orphanage where Asher once stayed was lively with various social and charity activities. The orphanage children ran joyfully around the yard, while volunteers and employees of Dixon Corporation were busy with numerous activities.In one corner of the yard, there were tents offering food, drinks, and games for the children. Another tent housed art and craft classes, filled with enthusiastic children learning to paint and create crafts.The bustling scene quieted as Luciana entered, holding Asher's arm affectionately, with Aberon loyally accompanying them. Several bodyguards stood alert in the background, ensuring the safety of the Dixon family.On the podium, the MC started the event with enthusiasm, "Welcome to the charity and social event organized by Dixon Corporation! We are gathered here to show love and support to the children at this orphanage. To start the event, let's hear from the head of Dixon Corporation's social foundation, Mr. Aberon Dixon."Aberon s
Alicia quietly smiled as she heard what Asher said. Her heart raced at Asher's awkwardness. Alicia felt happy but also confused about what to do."Asher, are you okay?" Alicia asked softly, trying to divert attention from Asher's nervousness."Ah, yes, I'm fine. It's just... I was a bit surprised by your painting. It's really beautiful," Asher replied, a bit calmer but still with a hint of nervousness in his voice.Alicia approached Asher and looked at her painting. "Thank you. I'm glad someone likes my painting. But, I prefer honest opinions because I'm not used to painting."Asher felt his heart beat faster. He swallowed and tried to regulate his breathing. "Really? But your painting is truly beautiful. You painted cherry blossoms, right?" Asher looked at Alicia's canvas. There he saw the strokes of a cherry blossom tree with beautiful pink colors."You're right. I like flowers."Asher smiled slightly, following Alicia as she led him to a shaded area with a wooden table and chairs.
Asher remembered clearly how Alicia smiled, as if what he saw was imprinted in his mind. That smile was so sincere and charming, making Asher's heart race every time he remembered it. Even when he was in a busy meeting room, the image of Alicia's smile still lingered in his mind, giving him quiet encouragement and happiness.The meeting for the hotel opening preparations went smoothly. The large meeting room was decorated with a big projector screen on one side, while large windows on the other side let in the bright morning sunlight. At the long oval table, executives and managers sat close together, debating and discussing passionately.Asher led the meeting confidently, giving directions and listening to input from his team. In front of him was a presentation slide showing the event schedule, guest list, and various logistical details. The atmosphere in the room was filled with enthusiasm and focus; everyone seemed eager to give their best for the much-anticipated hotel opening."W