Charlene and Dalton weren’t exactly sworn enemies. They just had a bit of a disagreement, and Charlene wasn’t one to back down when she knew she was right. But since Abelard had personally stepped in, she figured she could let it slide this time. “Charlene, don’t rush your decision,” Abelard said gently over the phone. “Take your time, and let me know when you’re ready.”

“Alright,” Charlene replied.

“And about Dalton,” Abelard went on, “just go with what feels right to you. Don’t stress about owing me any favors.”

“I understand,” she assured him.

Abelard chuckled, appreciating her honesty. “Alright then, I won’t keep you any longer. Let’s catch up another time.” “Sure thing. Goodbye.”

After hanging up, Charlene pondered for a moment before calling Kenton. It took him a good half hour to get

back to her.

“What’s up?” he asked.

Charlene clued him in on what was going on. Kenton quickly chimed in, “Abelard doesn’t just do favors for anyone. You might want to think this over.”

Charlene nodded at the phone, feeling reassured by Kenton’s perspective. “Got it. Thanks, Kenton.”

“Anytime.”

With that, Kenton ended the call. Charlene didn’t call Abelard back until the next morning. She figured Abelard knew she’d consult Kenton before making a decision. When Charlene finally called back, Abelard’s voice was warm. “Thank you for getting back to me, Charlene.”

“No problem at all.”

After they hung up, Abelard sighed contently. His colleague noticed and chuckled, “Mr. Ramirez, what’s on your mind?”

Abelard settled into his chair. “Just thinking I wouldn’t mind having a daughter.”

“At our age? Don’t put your wife through that. You’ve got a son who’s old enough to start a family. You should be thinking about daughters-in-law instead.”

Abelard sighed again, “If only my son were a bit more proactive.”

Later that day, Dalton showed up at PrimeStar. Charlene had already briefed Stewart about Abelard’s

involvement.

When Dalton arrived, Stewart kept him waiting for over an hour before finally meeting with him. Dalton’s intent to work with their company was clear; his new proposal was even better than the last. But Stewart’s demeanor remained cool. “Looking forward to working together,” he said, shaking Dalton’s hand. “Likewise,” Dalton replied. He wasn’t particularly fond of Charlene, but he had no issues with Stewart.

“How about dinner to discuss the details?” Dalton suggested. “Charlene will be joining us, right? Hope that’s not a problem.”

Dalton assumed Stewart’s willingness to collaborate was due to Abelard reaching out to Kenton, who then spoke to Stewart. He couldn’t care less about Charlene. Despite his personal feelings, he was willing to set them aside for the sake of business. 00.30 Chapter 22

“That’s fine by me, as long as Ms. Ross is okay with it,” Dalton replied.

Stewart nodded, sending someone to fetch Charlene. When she arrived, Dalton expected her to be upset or at least irritated. But Charlene was calm, extending her hand with a composed smile. “Looking forward to working together.”