Chapter 85
It was the first real setback she had ever encountered in her life.
Stellar was still courteous enough to spare his pride. “This dish is actually pretty good, Mr. Howe. You should try it too.”
Although the price was steep, the taste was undeniably fresher and more flavorful than other restaurants.
Shane assumed she was just being nice, but after taking a couple of bites, he had to admit it was indeed delicious.
His emotions were a rollercoaster–soaring one moment and sinking the next.
Determined to regain his footing, he shifted the conversation back. “We were just talking about relationships. Miss Rivers, do you have anyone special in your life right now?”
Stellar’s hand paused for a moment.
She knew she wouldn’t be able to avoid this.
From all the subtle gestures and careful probing earlier, she had already guessed that Shane was interested in her.
He wasn’t just treating her as a friend–he wanted something more.
She decided to be straightforward. “No, I don’t.”
Shane’s heart lifted, thinking this was his chance.
But the next second, Stellar gave him a small, wry smile.
“My last failed relationship hit me pretty hard. I think I still need some time to move on, so I’m not considering dating at the moment”
That was a gentle rejection.
The first half of her statement was a li
a lie, but the last part was the truth.
Right now, she was more focused on her career, on uncovering the truth behind what happened years ago, and on seeking justice for herself.
She simply didn’t h
She simply didn’t have the confidence to start another relationship.
Hearing that, the light in Shane’s striking eyes dimmed slightly, and disappointment settled in his heart.
But he understood that people who was hurt before needed time to heal.
Still, he wasn’t ready to give up so easily.
“I think someone as exceptional as you, Miss Rivers, is bound to meet the perfect person one day. If someone couldn’t appreciate you, then it’s their loss.”
#20 Bonus
Shane offered a few words of comfort but didn’t push any further.
“You flatter me, Mr. Howe,” Stellar said with a small, somewhat embarrassed smile.
“I’m being sincere,” Shane said, looking at her intently,
Then, as if suddenly remembering something important, he added, “By the way, Miss Rivers, are you free this weekend?
“You haven’t met our boss yet, have you? Now that you’ve submitted your new materials, he’s very interested in meeting someone as talented as you.”
Since Stellar had just turned him down, he couldn’t push any further on that front.
But at the very least, he had to find ways to spend more time with her.
At the mention of meeting Brighton Group’s elusive boss, a spark of interest flickered in Stellar’s eyes.
Rumor had it that this man was exceptionally gifted, with a sharp eye for business.
Yet, he remained an enigma.
He had never appeared in financial news, and aside from a select few business partners, almost no one had ever seen his true face.
The opportunity to meet such a formidable figure naturally piqued her curiosity.
“Of course, I’d be delighted.”
2
Shane’s relaxed smile returned. “That’s great.
After finishing their meal, they stepped out of the restaurant.
shane,
ever
the gentleman, turned to her and said, “Miss Rivers, let me drive you home.”
Stellar quickly declined.
“That’s not necessary. It’s still early, and I have some things to take care of. I wouldn’t want to trouble you, Mr. Howe.”
Shane was momentarily taken aback.
Realizing that she might have refused too quickly and not wanting to offend him, Stellar took the initiative to shift the conversation back to business.
“Mr. Howe, it’s truly been a pleasure working with you. This project’s success is largely thanks to you. I’ll be putting in extra effort to refine everything further. I won’t let you down
Shane let out a soft chuckle, instantly understanding that this was yet another subtle rejection.
Her bright, sparkling eyes held no trace of insincerity, only genuine appreciation and determination.
While rejection could be awkward, he found that he couldn’t bring himself to feel the slightest bit annoyed.
