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
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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 30
