Chapter 88
“No need to trouble yourself. I can take the elevator on my own.”
Stellar almost felt like all of this was a bit too over–the–top.
She accepted the access card, and as soon as she stepped toward the elevator, the doors slid open for her.
Stepping inside, she let her thoughts wander.
What kind of person was Brighton Group’s CEO? Was he tall? Short?
Given that he had built an empire in just a few years and gathered some of the best talents under his wing, she figured he was probably a middle–aged man in his forties or fifties.
At that age, he was likely past his prime–maybe even overweight, sporting a beer belly and thinning hair.
No matter what, she had to remain respectful and professional.
First impressions were everything.
As she mentally prepared herself, the elevator doors quietly closed.
Meanwhile, on the top floor-
Shane tugged at his bow tie, his legs bouncing with restless energy as he sat on the edge of his seat.
“Stephen, are you sure this plan is going to work?”
His voice came out dry, betraying his nerves.
Stephen let out an impatient sigh, his brows furrowing. “Since when did you become such a coward?”
“If you’re that scared, just forget about the whole thing and go home. Don’t even bother confessing.”
He genuinely couldn’t understand what was so special about this woman that had Shane so completely captivated.
Maybe she was sharp.
Maybe she had a few tricks up her sleeve.
Or, more likely, she was playing hard to get
After all, with Shane’s wealth and status, there weren’t many women who would actually turn him down.
If it weren’t for the fact that he was helping Shane tonight, Stephen wouldn’t have even bothered coming.
“No way. I’ve come this far–I’m not backing out now.‘
Shane clenched his fists, his expression finally firm with determination.
Ghapter i
Just as Stephen thought Shane had finally pulled himself together, the man suddenly shot up from his seat.
“Nope. I need to hit the restroom. She won’t be here this early anyway. Wait for me.”
Before Stephen could respond, Shane bolted out of the
e room.
Stephen was speechless.
If not for his sense of loyalty to his best friend, he would’ve been out the door without a second thought.
+20
20 Bonus
The elevator chimed softly as it reached the top floor.
With a quiet step, Stellar exited, her heels sinking slightly into the plush cashmere carpet as she made her way into the
restaurant.
The first thing that caught her eye was the grand floor–to–ceiling windows, revealing a breathtaking panorama of the illuminated city skyline.
The view was nothing short of spectacular.
The vast dining area was nearly empty, except for a single elegantly set table by the window.
A crisp, elegant tablecloth covered the table, with gleaming silverware and fine porcelain dinnerware carefully arranged at each place setting.
A bottle of what appeared to be an exceptionally expensive red wine sat nearby, waiting to be uncorked.
At the center of it all was a vase filled with fresh, velvety roses, their petals still glistening with tiny droplets of water.
The whole setup exuded an undeniable sense of romance.
It felt… like a date.
A vague sense of unease crept into Stellar’s mind.
Something about this didn’t seem right.
But then, she caught sight of a tall figure standing by the table–someone unfamiliar yet strangely familiar.
Was that… Brighton Group’s CEO?
Without thinking, Stellar quickened her pace, closing the distance.
Hearing the sound of approaching footsteps, Stephen turned lazily, lifting his gaze with mild disinterest.
He was curious to see what kind of woman had turned Shane into a complete fool.
Then, in the next instant, their eyes met.
Time seemed to freeze.
The air between them grew heavy, thick with an unspoken tension..
Both of them stared in stunned disbelief.
“You
Stellar’s lips parted slightly, but her brain struggled to catch up with reality.
Before she could think, the words tumbled out.
“Senior? I–I must have arrived at the wrong place…”
Her heart pounded as confusion flooded her mind.
Why was he here?
How was this even possible?
