Chapter 74
Sexing Charlene, Veeta maintained a neutral expression as she told Stewart, We’ve got some things to take care of, so we’ll be heading out. Lete catch up some other time Stewart shook their hands, saying, “Sure, next time
Without giving Charlene another glance, along with Henley, Vesta turned to leave
Given Stewart’s status and reputation, several influential figures had come over to invite him for lunch when it heared noon. And it seemed Thome would be joining them. Thome’s presence indicated key industry leaders would also be there, probably to discuss future trends in Al
It was a golden opportunity for Stewart to understand where the market was headed. Moreover, a successful lunch could pave the way for future collaborations. Stewart was indeed interested. He shot a glance at Charlene, kind of asking for her opinion, not sure if she’d be
okay with Thore being there.
Charlene firmly said, “I’m in.”
Once outside, she and Thorne would treat each other as strangers, but that didn’t mean she would avoid him. So, the group, with Charlene and Stewart in tow, went toward Thorne.
Thorne’s expression remained calm as they approached, though Vesta frowned slightly before returning to
indifference.
Henley and Laverne joined them, too. Seeing Charlene was part of the group, their expressions soured.
Someone who hadn’t greeted Stewart yet took the opportunity to do so as they approached.
It was Thorne’s turn to shake Stewart’s hand. He said, “Nice to meet you.”
Nice to meet you,” Stewart replied, smiling. “Mr. Henderson, I’ve heard a lot about you.”
“You’re too kind, Mr. Ferguson.”
After exchanging pleasantries, Thorne and Vesta led the way to the parking lot, with Charlene and Stewart following. Henley and Laverne tried to subtly signal to Charlene, suggesting she shouldn’t join them, but Charlene ignored their hints.
Thorne and Vesta shared a car while Charlene got into Stewart’s.
Unable to dissuade Charlene, Laverne frowned, “That Charlene is…”
The group of over twenty headed to a spacious private dining room and settled around a large round table.
Thorne naturally sat next to Vesta. Laverne had wanted to sit beside Charlene, concerned she might speak out of turn during the meal. However, she was too slow, and Stewart snagged the last seat beside Charlene. As the group began to chat and order food, Thorne passed the menu to Vesta, inviting her to choose.
Taking the menu, Vesta asked, “What would you like?”
“You decide,” Thorne responded.
Those sitting nearby smiled at the exchange, commenting, “Mr. Henderson and Ms. Hawkins seem close.”
Vesta smiled, selecting a few dishes she knew Thorne would enjoy. Henley and Laverne also smiled, relieved.
Holding a menu, Stewart consulted Charlene on her preferences.
Overhearing the conversation, he glanced towards Thorne and Vesta, then back at Charlene, who seemed indifferent. After a brief discussion, they agreed on a few dishes. 11:22
Beeing Charlene wasn’t causing trouble, Laverne and Henley relaxed a bit.
Noticing their concern for Charlene, Vesta leaned in and whispered reassuringly, ‘Don’t worry. With Thorne here, she won’t cause trouble”