Chapter 73
Vesta would be on the verge of being drowned in criticism. It was blatantly obvious how much Henley favored Vesta. Henley wanted to keep his distance from Charlene at these gatherings, yet he couldn’t resist getting to know Stewart. So, when Charlene took a break to head to the restroom, Henley came over to Stewart with Vesta and Laverne. Henley introduced, “Mr. Ferguson, it’s my pleasure to meet you. I’m Henley Hawkins, Vesta and Charlene’s father.” Stewart shook his hand politely, responding, “Ah, Mr. Hawkins, nice to meet you.”
Henley glanced at Vesta before continuing, “Charlene can get a bit intense sometimes, and there seems to be some miscommunication between her and Vesta. As a dad, I’ve always wished they could get along, but Charlene isn’t having it.” Stewart had an aha moment. “I see.”
“Yes,” Henley sighed before brightening up again, “But I am thrilled Charlene has met someone promising like you. I heard she’s started working at your company, PrimeStar. Please look out for her for me.”
It sounded like genuine concern. Had Henley not chosen this moment to chat in Charlene’s absence, had he not been so well-informed about Charlene’s past and her relationship with Thorne, Stewart might have believed him. Put Stewart kept it light, laughing. “You’re too kind, Mr. Hawkins. Charlene is a great asset to PrimeStar.”
Henley and Vesta took Stewart’s words as mere pleasantries. What help could Charlene’s resume offer to someone like Stewart? At best, she might handle some menial tasks. Perhaps similar to what a junior programmer might do.
Of course, Henley kept these thoughts to himself. Vesta didn’t chime in either. Laverne just flashed a casual smile.
Henley continued, “You might already be aware of Vesta’s situation. She’s quite interested in CUAP and does hope to join PrimeStar.” Though Thorne’s arrangements meant Vesta didn’t have to worry about exploring CUAP further, connecting with someone as well-off and influential as Stewart was never a bad move. They might even collaborate closely with PrimeStar.
Stewart turned to Vesta, “Ms. Hawkins, I appreciate your interest. You’re exceptional. It would be a blessing to have you at PrimeStar, but Charlene is a friend.”
Vesta didn’t want to work at PrimeStar anymore. She didn’t want to be on bad terms with Stewart. After all, they might become close colleagues in the future. Making a friend was always better than making an enemy.
Stewart seemed much more approachable than at the previous gathering. Time would tell whether his change in attitude was genuine. They might still become good friends.
Vesta responded, “I understand and won’t press the issue, Mr. Ferguson. There’s no need to worry.”
Stewart smiled. “Thank you for your understanding, Ms. Hawkins.”
From a distance, they seemed to be getting along famously.
When Charlene returned from the restroom and saw them, she hesitated.
Laverne noticed and couldn’t help but smile.