Unknown Divorce: Revelation Beyond Time Novel by Miss Lyra (Chapters 301 to 310)

Chapter 301

As they were halfway through their meal, Moran suddenly remembered something and turned to Vesta. “Hey, by the way, PrimeStar Technologies is expanding its team. Are you thinking about giving it another shot?”

Vesta had been abroad recently, but she was already aware of PrimeStar’s recruitment drive. Truth be told, she was quite tempted. After all, PrimeStar was renowned for its cutting–edge technology, and joining them would be a great boost for her career. But…

Moran, noticing her hesitation, chuckled and said, “I bumped into a friend yesterday who mentioned that Stewart Ferguson isn’t just hiring tech people; he’s also on the lookout for management staff. From what I gather, Stewart hasn’t reserved any management spots for her.”

The “her” in question was, of course, Charlene Ross.

With PrimeStar expanding and restructuring, it seemed like the perfect opportunity for Charlene to secure a position. Yet, Stewart hadn’t allocated any management roles to her, suggesting he was either staying clear–headed or that their relationship might be hitting a rough patch.

Either way, if Charlene wasn’t going to have a position at PrimeStar soon, her influence there would definitely diminish. So, if Vesta was considering joining PrimeStar, now would indeed be a golden opportunity.

Vesta knew all too well about Stewart’s fondness for Charlene. At the holiday party last year, he even ignored her to focus on Charlene. It was surprising to hear they might be drifting apart. But then again, maybe it wasn’t all that unexpected. Vesta had always suspected that Charlene couldn’t keep Stewart captivated for long and that this day would come.

She smiled subtly, saying, “Got it. I’ll find some time later to send in my resume.”

Moran grinned, throwing a playful glance at Thorne, who had been quietly eating. “You know, Thorne set up a special project at Neural Nexus Tech just for you, and now you’re thinking of jumping ship…”

Thorne, helping himself to more mashed potatoes, responded, “It’s no big deal.”

Vesta knew he’d say that. Thorne had always been her staunch supporter, never putting her in a difficult position. The thought warmed her heart.

Since New Year’s Eve, Granger Harden had been swamped with work, leaving little time to catch up with Charlene. Hearing Moran and Vesta’s conversation, he remained silent.

Since both Charlene and Stewart were students of the renowned Kenton Wagner, and given that Charlene had led CUAP and PrimeStar’s latest initiatives, her standing at PrimeStar was clearly secure.

Her influence was unshakeable, regardless of any formal title. If Charlene wasn’t vying for a position openly, she might have other plans in mind…

Since the end of the month is near, Charlene has decided to devote more of her time to research. She and Stewart had mutually agreed to leave PrimeStar’s management to those best suited for it. After the holidays, Stewart had been scouting for suitable candidates, and they were close to making a decision. However, with the expansion, there was still plenty to do.

Charlene had sent her latest research findings to Kenton three days ago and was now eagerly waiting for his feedback. Just as she was pondering this, a message from Kenton popped up on her phone.

“Swing by tonight.”

Chapter 302

After work, Charlene and Stewart arrived at Kenton’s villa just as Kenton was frowning into his phone, deep in conversation.

Seeing them, he ended the call, sat down, and said, “I’ve gone through your latest research. There are a few folks interested in meeting you. I’ll introduce you when the opportunity arises.”

Charlene nodded obediently. “Okay.”

Her research had been earmarked for a national project. Kenton continued discussing the related matters with her.

Later, Charlene and Stewart sought Kenton’s advice on a few issues. It wasn’t until late into the night that they finally left.

The next morning at the office, Charlene was going through resumes that the company’s HR had pre–screened for the tech department.

She paused suddenly as she scanned through them.

Stewart, who was nearby, noticed her change in expression and asked, “What’s up?”

“Vesta’s resume,” Charlene replied.

Stewart raised an eyebrow and chuckled, “She actually applied again? Talk about persistence.”

Charlene said nothing and promptly passed on Vesta’s resume.

That afternoon, Stewart was due to travel out of state for a business trip. He mentioned, “The roundtable in two days is all yours.”

Charlene assured him, “No problem.”

The roundtable Stewart referred to was a government–business discussion organized by the city council.

Only about thirty companies received an invitation to this event. Charlene, representing PrimeStar, arrived at the venue and encountered a familiar face as she stepped out of the car.

She paused briefly, then refocused and walked up the steps into the hall.

Dalton watched Charlene’s retreating figure, about to follow when someone called his name, “Mr. Ramirez.”

Dalton turned to see who it was. “Mr. Henderson.”

Thorne greeted him. “It’s been a while.”

Dalton agreed, “Indeed.”

They exchanged pleasantries as they made their way upstairs to the conference room.

Inside, each seat had a nameplate representing a company.

Charlene was already seated at hers when they entered.

Both Thorne and Dalton noticed her presence.

As Dalton observed her, he also realized Thorne’s company nameplate was right next to Charlene’s.

Thorne appeared unfazed.

The conference table was long and rectangular, with Dalton seated directly across from Charlene and Thorne.

Dalton smiled at him and nodded, then turned to take his seat next to Charlene.

Charlene was absorbed in her phone and made no move to greet him.

Thorne leaned slightly towards her, saying, “You seem to have lost weight. Busy these days?”

Charlene knew he was speaking to her but didn’t respond, eyes fixed on the documents in her hands.

Just then, someone came up to greet Thorne, who stood up to make small talk.

Soon, the room filled, and Hickey Watson, along with other officials, entered the conference room.

Seeing Charlene and Thorne, Hickey paused.

Like Abelard Ramirez, he hadn’t known who Charlene’s husband was until Abelard mentioned it after a recent lunch meeting–Charlene was married to Thorne.

Now, witnessing their distant demeanor, seemingly more unfamiliar than married, Hickey looked away.

The roundtable officially began.

Charlene and Thorne kept to themselves, only speaking when it was their turn to address the meeting.

Chapter 303

After the meeting ended, Charlene picked up her things and headed out of the room. Thorne watched her go, following a few steps behind.

The Ramirez and Watson families shared a close bond, much like Dalton and Hickey, who were quite familiar with each other. As they exited the conference room, Dalton greeted Hickey with a friendly nod.

Charlene, ignoring Dalton, approached Hickey with a polite, “Mr. Watson.”

Hickey chuckled warmly and said, “No need to be so formal all the time. Just call me Hickey”

Charlene nodded, adapting easily, “Hickey.”

Dalton paused, slightly taken aback. If he recalled correctly, the Campbell Watson art exhibit was the first time Charlene and Hickey had met. Even though Hickey had been quite courteous to Charlene, thanks to Stewart’s influence, they didn’t seem particularly close.

Yet now, Hickey not only recognized Charlene immediately but also treated her with the kind of warmth reserved for old family friends. Charlene’s demeanor, though respectful, carried a touch of familiarity, almost as if-

At that moment, Thorne joined them, greeting Hickey with a simple, “Hickey.”

Hickey’s smile faded slightly upon seeing Thorne. The Watsons and the Hendersons weren’t particularly close, and his professional encounters with Thorne had been limited. Hickey had always thought Thorne was incredibly talented and noted his polite manner. Thorne’s personal life, however, had never caught his interest.

However, at his father’s art show last year, he distinctly remembered Thorne having a girlfriend–a well–known fact, at that. The news of Charlene marrying Thorne, and them having children who were already five or six, was as surprising as it was unexpected.

Considering the indifferent and distant interaction between Thorne and Charlene at the previous year’s art exhibit, it was plausible they had already divorced by then.

The group headed to their lunch venue. As they settled into their seats, Thorne took his place beside Charlene Dalton observed this with a furrowed brow. During the meeting, he had noticed Thorne initiating conversation with Charlene. Although he couldn’t hear their exchange, Thorne’s demeanor was unusually gentle, especially considering Charlene’s known opposition to Vesta. And now, here was Thorne, purposefully sitting next to Charlene…

Dalton’s frown deepened with each passing moment.

As the others chatted about various things, Charlene quietly concentrated on her meal, occasionally tuning into the conversation.

Thorne, seated beside her, was engaged in conversation with others, not particularly directing any remarks to her.

It wasn’t until the meal was nearly over that Thorne spoke to her, “Minnie starts school soon. Are you planning to take her on her first day?”

Charlene, without lifting her gaze, replied coolly, “I’m busy, won’t have time.”

Thorne merely smiled, “Alright, got it.” With that, he turned back to his conversation with the others.

Dalton, who had been watching them closely, realized perhaps he was reading too much into it. Thorne’s interaction with Charlene seemed open and straightforward, likely just a courtesy given their business ties between Neural Nexus Tech and PrimeStar.

As the meal wound down, Dalton shifted his focus. Then, upon seeing Hickey, he recalled something and quickly texted York, “Did your father know Charlene before your grandfather’s art exhibit?”

York, whose work often kept him from responding quickly, happened to be on a break and replied almost immediately, “Nope, why do you ask?”

Chapter 304

Dalton told York about what happened today.

York responded, “You know, my dad and grandpa have always thought highly of Charlene and her grandmother. Maybe that’s what this is all about.”

Dalton pondered Hickey’s interest in Charlene, finding it peculiar how attentive he seemed to be.

Even if Hickey had a favorable impression of Charlene, wasn’t it a bit of a stretch to develop such an opinion after just one meeting? But since York had mentioned it, Dalton chose not to delve any deeper.

The weather forecast had warned of rain this afternoon, perhaps even snow.

Sure enough, Charlene noticed the rain starting to fall before they had finished their meal.

After that, Hickey and the other officials joined Charlene and the business representatives for a detailed discussion about last year’s business performance and the plans for the upcoming year.

With words of gratitude for the contributions to Starfall City’s economic growth, Hickey and the officials wrapped up the meeting.

As the meeting concluded, Thorne and Charlene shook hands with Hickey and the other officials before preparing to leave.

While shaking hands, Hickey advised Charlene, “It’s really cold today. I heard there’s a thin layer of ice outside. Drive carefully.”

Charlene nodded, “I will, thank you, Mr. Watson.”

Charlene joined Thorne and the other business representatives as they made their way to the parking lot.

Thorne was walking beside her. “Those high heels aren’t the best for this weather. Be careful.”

Caught off guard by Thorne’s public concern, Charlene replied, “Thank you, Mr. Henderson. I’ll be careful.”

The situation reminded her of an incident at last year’s Future Tech Expo.

During a group dinner back then, she had accidentally slipped, and Thorne, wary of sparking any gossip, chose not to help her up.

And now-

Thorne’s comment was neither too loud nor too soft, but it was clear enough to be heard.

As he spoke, he was still chatting with the other businesspeople around them. His familiar tone with Charlene, especially since he initiated the conversation, was noticed by everyone nearby, including Dalton.

Several of these business representatives had also been at the tech expo dinner last year.

PrimeStar had risen to prominence late last year, and Charlene’s reputation had grown significantly within their network.

Many people believed they understood her relationship with Stewart.

Of course, plenty of folks still remembered the “incident” at the tech expo dinner, where Charlene had supposedly “accidentally” slipped to attract Thorne’s attention, and how Thorne had remained unaffected.

But now…

If Thorne was merely being polite due to the partnership between Neural Nexus Tech and PrimeStar, he would have addressed her with a formal “Ms. Ross.” His casual concern seemed more like a personal interest.

So, had Thorne’s previously unyielding demeanor finally been swayed by Charlene?

Dalton hadn’t attended the Future Tech Expo last year. He wasn’t aware of the supposed “incident” between

Charlene and Thorne.

He only knew that if Thorne’s prior conversations with Charlene seemed like a figment of his imagination, what he heard now was undoubtedly real.

Dalton, too, felt that Thorne might be smitten by Charlene and was considering a public affair.

With these thoughts racing through his mind, Dalton’s expression turned cold as he watched Thorne and Charlene.

Charlene had brought an umbrella, knowing it would rain.

But the wind outside was biting, chilling her to the bone.

Although it was February, and she expected the snow in Starfall to be light and quick to melt, the icy roads were worse than she anticipated.

As she stepped out the door, the slippery steps made her cautious.

Those unfamiliar with Thorne hurried past her, while Thorne stayed by her side, not in a rush to leave.

The businesspeople familiar with Thorne exchanged knowing glances.

Dalton paused, about to speak.

Just then, Charlene slipped forward, and as she was about to fall, Thorne quickly wrapped an arm around her waist to steady her, lifting her before she even realized what was happening.

Chapter 305

Charlene’s face shifted slightly as she whispered, “Let me go”

Thorne interrupted, “Hold onto the umbrella.”

He didn’t wait for her response; instead, he effortlessly picked her up and carried her down the steps. As he walked away with her in his arms, he called over his shoulder to the others, “I’m heading out now. Let’s catch up another time.”

The group of business people, familiar with Thorne, were a bit taken aback.

Everyone knew about Charlene and Stewart’s relationship. If Stewart had sent Charlene to represent PrimeStar at this government meeting, it implied their relationship was still intact.

Thorne already had a girlfriend, so showing interest in Charlene this way seemed bold, almost as if he was openly challenging Stewart.

Stewart was a formidable figure, not someone to be taken lightly.

Despite their thoughts, they simply responded with awkward smiles, “Sure, catch you later.”

With so many eyes on them, Charlene felt compelled to say, “Thank you, Mr. Henderson. Now that we’re off the steps, I can walk on my own-”

Thorne continued towards the car, still holding Charlene securely.

He glanced down at her and remarked, “You’ve lost weight.”

“You-”

Thorne’s driver, noticing them approaching, quickly got out to assist.

Seeing Thorne carrying someone, he was surprised. Realizing it was Charlene, he was even more taken aback. “Ms. Ross?” He quickly opened the car door.

Charlene realized Thorne intended for her to ride with him.

She said coolly, “My car is nearby-”

Despite her protests, Thorne took the umbrella from her hand, helped her into the back seat, and asked, “You’ve sprained your ankle. Are you sure you can drive?”

Charlene replied calmly, “I can call someone to pick me up.”

Before Thorne could respond, Dalton approached, “Mr. Henderson.”

Thorne closed the car door, handed the umbrella to the driver, and turned with a smile, “Mr. Ramirez, still here?” Dalton knew Charlene was in the car, but the car windows were tinted, making it impossible to see her from outside.

He looked at Thorne and asked, “Is Ms. Ross inside?”

Thorne nodded, “Yes, she sprained her ankle. I’m taking her to see a doctor.”

“I happen to be free and was hoping to discuss some business with Ms. Ross. If you don’t mind, I could take her to the hospital,” Dalton offered.

Thorne smiled, “Quite the coincidence, but we also have some matters to discuss. Perhaps another time, Mr. Ramirez?”

Dalton’s expression darkened slightly.

Thorne added, “The wind’s strong out here, and you’re getting drenched. You should get back to your car and dry off.”

Dalton understood that regardless of Thorne’s intentions with Charlene, he had no grounds to intervene.

He nodded, cast another glance at the back seat where Charlene sat, and walked away.

Inside Thorne’s car, Charlene couldn’t hear the conversation between Thorne and Dalton. But she noticed Dalton’s gaze towards the car.

Knowing Dalton’s interest in Vesta, she could guess his intentions even without hearing the conversation.

She turned her attention back to her phone, dialing someone to pick her up, and checked her ankle.

Relieved to find that the injury wasn’t serious and she could still walk, she felt reassured.

Putting her phone down, she opened the car door and stepped out.

Chapter 306

Hearing a noise, Thorne turned around.

Charlene had just stepped out of her car, quietly shutting the door behind her. She walked over, taking the umbrella from his hand without a word.

Thorne glanced down at her feet, asking, “Your foot okay?”

It hurt a bit, but she could still walk.

Charlene didn’t go into why he had been unusually attentive, helping and holding her earlier. She simply told him, “Get in touch once you’ve sorted out the divorce.”

Her words implied that if it weren’t for the divorce, there’d be no reason for them to communicate.

With that, she opened the umbrella, brushed past him, and walked away.

Thorne watched her retreating figure but didn’t stop her, just letting her go. Their cars were parked not far from each other.

He only got into his own car after making sure she was safely inside hers. A few moments later, his car drove out of the parking lot.

Just as Thorne left, Dalton’s car pulled out right after.

Throughout the day’s meeting and subsequent dinner, journalists had been present.

By the time Charlene got home from the hospital, it was already past eight in the evening. As she began her dinner, news from the meeting was already airing.

The news segment featured both her and Thorne.

Meanwhile, Vesta and Maureen Spencer were also watching the news.

Seeing Charlene representing PrimeStar at such a significant government event, Vesta and Maureen frowned.

Wasn’t there trouble between Charlene and the Stewarts?

How could Charlene stand in for Stewart at this important gathering?

Vesta realized that if Charlene could still represent Stewart at such a crucial event, the resume she sent might have been for naught.

Maureen’s furrowed brows soon relaxed.

She gracefully accepted a bowl of homemade chicken soup from the housekeeper, remarking, “No need to rush, we’ll see how things unfold.”

Charlene was undeniably attractive, and Stewart might find it hard to let go. Their on–again, off–again relationship was nothing new.

Even though they seemed to be together now, signs of a breakup pointed to deeper issues. It might not last long.

Whether Vesta wanted to join PrimeStar or mend things with Stewart, it seemed just around the corner.

Vesta understood her mother’s feelings and shared the same thoughts.

Furthermore, watching Charlene and Thorne sitting closely at the meeting, she wasn’t concerned.

She had confidence both in herself and in Thorne.

Just then, Jacques Hawkins came downstairs. “Hey sis, you’re back?”

“Yeah,” Vesta replied, asking, “How’s the studying going?”

Jacques was in his junior year of high school. Starting this semester, he would be transferring to Starfall High.

Transfer procedures had already been arranged by Thorne.

However, the curriculum in Y City differed from Starfall’s.

Since the New Year, Jacques had been diligently working with tutors, bridging the gaps in the currículum.

Jacques shrugged it off, saying, “No problem at all. You know me, right?”

Indeed, both Vesta and Jacques were top students. Academics were never a concern for their family.

Hearing this, both Vesta and Maureen shared a smile.

The next day, Granger and Dalton arrived at PrimeStar at the same time.

“Mr. Harden, what a coincidence,” Dalton greeted.

“Quite the coincidence indeed,” Granger replied.

Dalton was about to continue when he noticed Charlene and Stewart coming out to greet them.

Charlene had quickly gotten out of Thorne’s car yesterday.

He wasn’t sure what she and Thorne discussed after, but he couldn’t help noticing that Thorne seemed to be the one always taking the initiative. Charlene appeared indifferent toward Thorne.

This puzzled Dalton.

Charlene was undeniably attractive, and he could understand why other men might be drawn to her, but Thorne was no ordinary man.

When it came to more than just looks, Charlene and Vesta were simply not in the same league. Why would Thorne show interest in Charlene when he had Vesta?

Charlene caught Dalton’s cold stare tinged with disdain. She responded icily, “Got something to say to me, M Ramirez?”

“Ms. Ross, you’re overthinking it,” Dalton replied coolly. “I don’t believe we have anything to discuss.”

Both Stewart and Granger had seen the news about yesterday’s meeting and knew Charlene and Dalton had met there.

Stewart, hearing this exchange, suspected things hadn’t gone well between them at the meeting. He smiled, though it didn’t reach his eyes, and looked at Dalton. “Oh? Did something happen?” Charlene didn’t want to waste time. Before Dalton could respond, she interjected, “Nothing at all.”

Turning to Granger, she added, “Mr. Harden, this way please.”

Nodding, Granger gave Dalton a brief glance before following Charlene to the conference room.

Charlene and Stewart had said nothing explicit, but Stewart sensed that any tension likely involved Vesta. Since Charlene wasn’t forthcoming, he didn’t press the matter, instead coolly inviting Dalton inside, “Mr. Ramirez, after you.”

Since New Year’s Eve, this was Granger’s first encounter with Charlene.

As she led the way, his gaze lingered on her more than once. None of them realized it, but they were all caught up in the tension between Charlene and Dalton.

Once inside the meeting room, Granger finally broke his gaze, taking a seat and commenting, “I had intended to–A be at yesterday’s meeting myself, but urgent business took me out of town. I had to send someone in my place.”

It was common enough for clients to exchange small talk before getting down to business.

Charlene didn’t think twice about it.

“Oh, I see,” she said casually.

Realizing that Charlene hadn’t picked up on what he was hinting at, Granger glanced down, shifting the conversation to something more work–related.

Chapter 307

Granger had another social event that evening. After wrapping up business discussions, he prepared to leave.

Charlene noticed Granger looking at her and glanced up, “What’s up?”

Tomorrow was Valentine’s Day.

But he didn’t mention it. Instead, he just shook his head and said, “Nothing.”

Charlene was so absorbed in her work that she had completely forgotten about Valentine’s Day.

It wasn’t until the next day when she arrived at the office that she was reminded of it. Her colleagues greeted her with “Happy Valentine’s Day,” and that’s when it hit her.

Just as Charlene was about to head back to her office, she heard a voice from the entrance: “Is there a Ms. Charlene here? Someone has sent you flowers, could you come sign for them?”

Charlene turned her head to see a delivery guy holding a massive bouquet of red roses at the door.

His words, coupled with the lavish bouquet, captured everyone’s attention.

There were rumors outside that Charlene and Stewart were involved, but most people at the company knew she was married.

However, Charlene rarely spoke about her personal life, so her colleagues weren’t clear on her marital status.

Seeing the flowers on Valentine’s Day, a coworker enviously commented, “That’s a huge bouquet! Your husband must have sent them, right? He’s so thoughtful.”

“Seriously, I’m so jealous.”

Charlene thought to herself that there was no way Thorne would send her flowers, but she didn’t say anything.

The card indeed had her contact information, so the flowers weren’t delivered by mistake.

The delivery guy, upon confirming she was Charlene, handed over the bouquet. “Could you sign here, please?”

To avoid causing any trouble for the delivery person, Charlene signed for the flowers.

Back in her office, she opened the elegant card and found no name, just a simple “Happy Valentine’s Day” from Daisy.

Stewart came in and noticed the roses on the coffee table, raising an eyebrow, “Who are they from?”

Charlene shook her head, “No idea, but the handwriting seems familiar.”

Stewart chuckled, “Looks like you have a secret admirer. Any guesses?”

Charlene shook her head, “None.”

Stewart stroked his chin thoughtfully. He and Charlene were often seen together, yet he’d never noticed anyone showing interest in her.

With a smirk, he joked, “It couldn’t be Thorne, could it?”

Charlene replied coolly, “It’s not him.”

She and Thorne had been married for years, and he’d never celebrated Valentine’s Day with her, so why would he send roses now, when they were on the brink of divorce?

Besides, she could recognize Thorne’s handwriting.

“Alright then,” Stewart said, “Regardless, if the card’s written by the sender, they must have a soft spot for you. Plus, those roses are the fanciest kind.”

Maybe, but Charlene wasn’t particularly intrigued by the whole affair.

Her mind was elsewhere entirely. She wasn’t really interested, no matter who had sent them. Since the sender didn’t leave any contact details or a name, she wasn’t inclined to dwell on it. “Let’s focus on work.”

She had important business to attend to at Neural Nexus Tech.

It was a plan set days ago.

After organizing her documents, and seeing that it was about time, she left for Neural Nexus Tech with a few colleagues.

Chapter 308

On her way to Neural Nexus Tech, Charlene received a call from her grandmother, Irma Henderson.

Charlene picked up, “Hey, Grandma.”

“Hello, dear,” Irma’s voice was warm and comforting. “I heard from Minnie the other day that you’ve been working late and even pulling all–nighters. I got some health supplements delivered recently, and I’ve sent some your way. Make sure you have someone cook them up for you, okay?”

Charlene knew that even if she tried to decline, Irma wouldn’t take no for an answer. So she replied, “I will, thank you, Grandma.”

Irma chuckled softly and seemed to remember something. “Oh, by the way, I had a chat with Thorne recently. He promised to get along better with you. After all, you are both Minnie’s parents, and for her well–being, it’s important that you maintain a good relationship.”

So, that’s why Thorne was unusually considerate during the last meeting? Charlene thought.

“Got it,” Charlene replied calmly.

After chatting for a few more minutes, Charlene ended the call with Irma.

Upon arriving at Neural Nexus Tech, Charlene noticed that Vesta was absent.

Quincy spotted her and grinned, “Hey, it’s Valentine’s Day. Did you get any flowers, Ms. Ross?”

Before Charlene could answer, a PrimeStar employee who had come along with her to Neural Nexus Tech chimed in with a laugh, “Oh, she did! A huge bouquet of roses. We were all so jealous!”

Quincy smiled but didn’t get a chance to respond before Leah Spencer appeared out of nowhere. “Just flowers? Nothing else?”

The PrimeStar employee hesitated, “Well…uh…”

“So it’s just flowers, huh?” Leah scoffed. “You guys are hilarious. It’s just a bunch of roses. What’s there to be envious about? My cousin got a whole lot more this morning. Her fiancé even gifted her shares from Neural Nexus Tech. What did she say to that?”

Quincy was momentarily speechless. Well, that was hard to argue with.

But did it really need to be a competition?

Noticing Charlene might be out of the loop, Quincy leaned over and whispered to her, “Word is, Director Hawkins is quite the catch among the elite circles–many rich heirs dream of her. Although with our Mr. Henderson as her boyfriend, most don’t dare make a move. But today being Valentine’s Day, some couldn’t resist and anonymously sent her flowers and gifts. Her office was nearly overflowing.”

Before Charlene could say anything, Quincy continued, “But Mr. Henderson didn’t become her beau for nothing. I heard he gave Director Hawkins a portion of our company’s shares as a gift!”

“Treating a girlfriend like that, it’s something none of us have seen before. When the news broke this morning, everyone in the company was green with envy!”

Charlene thought back to how casually Vesta had access to company secrets, and how Jacques and Leah could come and go from Neural Nexus Tech as they pleased. If one day Neural Nexus Tech changed its name to The Hawkins Group, she wouldn’t be surprised.

Hearing Quincy’s gossip, Charlene was hardly shocked. Thorne gifting Vesta shares on Valentine’s Day showed he wasn’t just generous but also wanted the gesture to be meaningful and memorable. It was clear he truly cared for Vesta.

“What are you all chatting about?” Vesta’s voice suddenly entered the conversation.

Quincy quickly smiled and said, “Director Hawkins, finished with the meeting?”

Vesta nodded, “Yes.”

Today, Neural Nexus Tech’s top brass was holding an important meeting.

Chapter 309

She now owned shares in Neural Nexus Tech. Just a moment ago, she was out at a meeting with Thorne and the others.

“Cousin,” Leah said with a smirk as she walked over, casting a sideways glance at Charlene. She whispered just loud enough for only the two of them to hear, “Someone was all proud about receiving flowers earlier. But when they heard a bunch of people sent you flowers, and that my brother–in–law gave you shares, they suddenly went silent.”

Vesta heard this and gave Charlene a brief look before saying nothing.

Leah continued, “Sis, didn’t you say Stewart was really good to her? But today’s Valentine’s Day, and all he gave her was a single bouquet with nothing else. Doesn’t seem like he’s all that great to her after all.”

Vesta raised an eyebrow.

On Valentine’s Day, Stewart only gave Charlene a bouquet? That seems pretty half–hearted.

Before, she genuinely thought Stewart treated Charlene well. After all, Charlene had significant influence at PrimeStar.

But now, with something to compare against, she realized if Stewart truly cared, he wouldn’t just offer her influence without a position or shares, right?

Just then, Edwin walked over, noticed Vesta, and with a grin, asked, “Now that you’ve got shares, are you planning to jump in and manage Neural Nexus Tech yourself?”

Vesta replied, “Nah, I believe in leaving the professional stuff to the experts. I’m not one to hoard power.”

As she spoke, she glanced at Charlene.

Charlene, despite having no real abilities, liked to flaunt her influence at PrimeStar, meddling in everything. Yet ironically, she had neither a position nor shares. It was kind of amusing when you thought about it.

Charlene focused on her work, seemingly unaffected by the earlier drama.

Her phone buzzed.

She glanced at it; it was a message from Kenton.

[Pick me up tomorrow evening.]

Last week, Kenton had mentioned someone wanted to meet her. Tomorrow’s meeting was likely about that.

Charlene thought for a moment and agreed. After replying, she put her phone away and dove back into her work.

The next day, Charlene and Stewart picked up Kenton and headed to the reserved restaurant.

Upon arriving and stepping out of the car, Charlene spotted Abelard and Hickey.

Kenton had mentioned someone wanted to meet her, so she assumed she’d be meeting strangers today. She didn’t expect Abelard and Hickey to be there too.

Charlene greeted them with Stewart, “Mr. Ramirez, Hickey.”

Abelard and Hickey nodded with smiles.

After exchanging pleasantries, they were about to head upstairs when someone emerged from another car, calling out, “Leaving already? Not gonna wait for me?”

Charlene turned around and was momentarily stunned to see the newcomer.

Wasn’t he from the Department of Defense?

Kenton, still expressionless, introduced him, “Geoffrey”

Geoffrey toned down the commanding presence he usually had during interviews and offered a warm smile. He extended his hand to her, saying, “Charlene, right? I’ve heard so much about you?

“Yes,” Charlene replied, “Nice to meet you”

“Everyone’s here, huh.” Another familiar face from the news emerged from a different car and approached them.

Kenton, in his usual cool manner, said, “This is Darius,”

Charlene shook hands with Darius, just about to speak when a voice interrupted, “Dad?

Dalton got out of the car, surprised to see not only Abelard and Hickey but also so many prominent figures gathered. What shocked him more was seeing Charlene among them.

Chapter 310

But with Stewart and Kenton here, running into Charlene at this kind of gathering didn’t seem all that surprising after all.

Abelard hadn’t expected to bump into his son here, either. He asked, “Here for some networking?”

Dalton replied, “Yeah.”

Geoffrey chuckled, “Abelard, is this your son?”

Abelard nodded with a smile, replying, “Yes, that’s him.”

“Quite the impressive young man,” Geoffrey remarked.

Geoffrey, Darius, and Dalton were well aware of who these folks were. Dalton knew his father had a decent rapport with them.

However, Geoffrey, Darius, and Kenton were always busy, and despite their familiarity with his father, Dalton had never actually met them himself.

When Geoffrey greeted him, Dalton made sure to shake his hand and replied, “Thank you, sir.”

Just then, he noticed Vesta and Henley Hawkins stepping out of a sleek car.

Dalton was momentarily taken aback.

Henley and Vesta, upon spotting Dalton, Kenton, Darius, and the others, were equally surprised.

It was rare to see even one of these influential figures, let alone all of them gathered in one place.

Naturally, they also saw Charlene and Stewart.

Stewart was Kenton’s student, and with PrimeStar’s success, he was a point of pride for Kenton. It made sense, that Kenton was introducing him to some important connections. Like Dalton, they assumed that Charlene was leveraging Stewart’s connections to meet influential figures like Kenton and Darius.

Truth be told, regardless of whose connections they were leveraging, meeting Darius and Kenton was a privilege in its own right.

They’d heard about Kenton’s extensive network before, but seeing the caliber of people he knew firsthand was something else entirely!

They also recognized Hickey and Abelard.

Vesta knew them as York and Dalton’s fathers, respectively.

As Dalton glanced their way, Vesta acknowledged him with a nod and a smile.

Noticing Dalton’s attention, Abelard followed his line of sight.

He wasn’t familiar with Vesta and Henley, but seeing Dalton’s interest, he asked, “Friends of yours?”

Dalton nodded, “Yeah.”

Vesta and Henley made their way over.

Watching them approach, Stewart nearly rolled his eyes.

Charlene’s expression remained unchanged.

Dalton introduced them, “This is Mr. Hawkins and his daughter, Vesta.”

Dalton’s demeanor subtly shifted when he looked at Vesta.

Abelard raised an eyebrow. He noted Vesta’s striking appearance and elegance, thinking Dalton had good taste. Seeing Dalton’s eagerness to introduce them, he politely shook hands with Henley and Vesta.

Hickey, who had met Vesta before, knew she was Thorne’s girlfriend.

As Vesta walked over, he glanced at Charlene.

Although Charlene didn’t show any emotion on her face, Hickey could feel the chill in the air when she noticed Henley and Vesta.

He knew she and Thorne had been married but was unaware of the details of their divorce. Seeing her cold reaction towards Vesta, a suspicion formed in his mind.

After greeting Abelard, Vesta turned to Kenton and politely said, “Mr. Wagner,”

Kenton nodded coolly, not offering further conversation.

Thorne had mentioned before that Kenton was reserved with everyone, not just with her specifically.

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