NovelUpdateChapter 229 Simms didn't so much as glance at Victoria, as if she were a stranger, his attention fixed solely on Violet across the table.
"It's not your first tat Vertex Dynamics, is it, Ms. Marchand? This is my first visit. I've heard their restaurant is excellent-thought I'd see for myself." Violet smiled. "If you like it, Uncle, you're welcto cback anytime. What do you think, McNeil?" She made a show of consulting McNeil, but in truth, she'd already made the decision for him.
Simms's smile deepened, crinkling the corners of his eyes, while Yulia looked pleased that McNeil seemed to value Violet's opinion so highly.
"You're always welcome," McNeil said quietly. When Victoria approached, he looked away, swirling his wine and taking a slow sip.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtThe attention of both companies' top executives was centered on McNeil's table; Victoria's departure was abrupt but barely registered with the group. Only the tech department folks seemed to notice.
"Ms. Turner looked a bit off-seems like something's bothering her," someone murmured.
"I heard she's going through a divorce," another replied with a sigh. "No matter how successful a woman is at work, a failed marriage still leaves a mark." Someone else shook their head in pity. "Just look at Ms. Marchand-she has Mr. Langford's full support. She's got love and a thriving career. Didn't she have stomach cancer a while ago? It was supposed to be serious-doctors said she had three months at most. But Mr. Langford called in a top specialist and even gave up his own spot for surgery to save her. Sometimes, picking the right partner really does make all the difference." A sympathetic sigh. "Poor Ms. Turner. She deserves better." As lunch wound down, the gossip only grew louder.
Victoria was nearly past McNeil's table when Violet spoke up, her tone casual but clear.
"Ms. Turner, don't rush off. There's still a seat here-why not join us?" Victoria hesitated, her steps faltering.
Simms hadn't expected Violet to call out to Victoria. Not everyone here knew about their real relationship, but a few did, and everyone understood the unspoken tension.
Yulia quickly chimed in, picking up Violet's lead. "She's right, Victoria. You're one of us-come, sit down and eat with us." She carefully avoided mentioning Victoria's connection to Simms, framing it as Violet's generosity instead. Mr. Harper from Quantum Core Technologies and Mr. Pierce, who'd just arrived, were both baffled by Violet's maneuver. They didn't know the details, but they could tell that among the newcomers, Victoria was the most striking woman in management. The men caught on quickly.
Ms. Marchand must want someone beautiful at the table to keep things lively, they thought. And Ms. Turner, with her poise and looks, was a perfect fit-someone who could hold her own in any company.
They hurried to make room, even reaching out to guide Victoria into a seat.
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"Ms. Turner, con-stay a while.
It's still early, no need to rush off," Mr. Harper insisted, all smiles. "Everyone here can handle a drink or two, and your team from Investment is known for being top-notch-bet you can drink us all under the table. Ms. Marchand and all the execs have invited you; give us the honor." McNeil watched as his two deputies coaxed Victoria, but made no move to intervene. He simply sipped his wine, eyes cold, saying nothing.
"No, thank you. I don't dine with people I don't know," Victoria said icily, pulling her arm from Mr. Harper's grasp, her expression darkening.
"Ms. Turner, it's nothing personal," Violet said smoothly. "Since the execs are here, we were just om new discussing the new gdevelopment project with the tech department. You've got experience in this area-thought you might want to share your insights."
She turned to McNeil. "Don't you agree, Mr. Langford? Ms. Turner is talented in gdevelopment. Honestly, I think she's wasted in Investment; she'd be a real asset in R&D. What's your take?"
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