Chapter 89
“Wait”
Stephen’s gaze darkened slightly as realization set in.
A memory surfaced–the fleeting glimpse he’d caught of a familiar figure in the elevator that day.
At the time, he’d assumed it was a mistake.
It clearly wasn’t.
Pressing his lips together, he felt an unfamiliar sensation stir within him.
So, she was the one who had Shane completely enthralled?
His brows furrowed slightly, but he still wanted to confirm it.
“You’re here to meet Brighton Group’s CEO?”
Stellar turned at his words, a sudden, almost absurd thought flashing through her mind.
“Wait… don’t tell me you’re-”
Stephen gave a small nod.
The middle–aged executive she had imagined, the balding, beer–bellied businessman, had just been replaced by none other than her senior from university?
Her brain momentarily short–circuited.
Stephen let out a quiet sigh. He should have figured this out sooner.
So, she was the brilliant mind behind the CM material.
And the very same person working with Riverside Corporation all this time.
But, being who he was, he quickly suppressed the rush of emotions, schooling his features into an easy, unaffected expression.
“Stellar, you’re even more impressive than I expected. I should have introduced myself under this title a long time ago.”
Stellar finally shook off her daze, letting out a breathless laugh mixed with a sigh.
“Senior, no, Mr. Ward–I’d say you’re the one full of surprises.”
Just then, Shane emerged from the restroom, only to find the two of them engaged in what looked like an effortless, lively
conversation.
He froze mid–step, staring.
20 Bonus
“You two… know each other?”
At the sound of his voice, Stellar rose from her seat, turning toward him.
“Yes, Senior Ward and 1 are from the same university.”
“Oh, I see!”
Shane felt a strange sense of surprise, but it quickly turned into excitement.
This was even better.
Since they already knew each other, Stephen would have an easier time helping him out.
“In that case, no need for introductions. Have a seat, let’s take our time chatting.”
Shane grinned as he motioned for them to sit down, completely missing the subtle shift in Stephen’s expression.
The dishes were soon served, and Shane spoke in a proud, almost boastful tone.
“This time, I personally selected every dish. No way will it be like last time.”
“Hmm, it looks like a great spread,” Stellar responded politely.
With the conversation flowing smoothly, the atmosphere gradually lightened.
Seeing that the moment was right, Shane glanced at Stephen, only to realize that he still hadn’t left.
Frowning slightly, he quickly pulled out his phone under the table and, making sure Stellar wasn’t paying attention, sent a
message.
“Buddy, get out of here! You’re my wingman. What are you still waiting for? Where’s the drone? Hurry up and set it up! I’ve got the perfect timing for my confession.”
A soft notification sound chimed.
Stephen glanced down at the red dot on his screen, opened the message, and without any change in expression, typed back a short response.
After a brief pause, Stephen added another message.
On Shane’s end, he quickly lowered his head to check the response.
“Sorry, the drone malfunctioned.”
“Honestly, I don’t think this plan is a good idea. It’s not romantic enough and doesn’t really mean anything.”
Shane stared at his screen, s stunned.
What the hell?
Why was his loyal best friend suddenly backing out?
Wait a minute.
His mind flashed back to what Stellar had called Stephen just moments ago–Senior.
Which meant… Stellar was Stephen’s junior?
A chilling realization hit him.
Could it be…?
Was she the one–the junior Stephen had said was a reflection of his first love?
The thought sent a jolt through Shane, making his entire body go stiff.
With some effort, he slowly turned his head and asked, “She’s your junior?”
Stephen gave a small nod, then ignored him completely and turned to Stellar.
“I read through your research materials. You did an excellent job. Your work is truly impressive.”
The usual coldness in his expression softened slightly, making him seem almost approachable.
