Chapter108
Tanya spotted Ashley, her expression unreadable.“We have something else to attend to,” she told Tim coolly, “Let’s catch up later.”
Tim shook hands with them.“Sounds good, next time.”
Tanya didn’t glance at Ashley again, turning and leaving with her brothers, Mark and Yonnie.
Tim’s status commanded attention. By noon, several industry bigwigs were vying for his company lunch. Word was that Chase Sterling would be there, too. Sterling had attracted a cluster of industry leaders, all seemingly bound for the same meal. The future direction of the VR landscape hinged on these power players‘ decisions. This was a golden opportunity to gauge the market’s future and, potentially, strike lucrative deals.
Tim was tempted, but he glanced at Ashley, silently seeking her approval. He wondered if her presence would… complicate things with Sterling.
Ashley’s response was firm:“I’m going.”
Outside, she and Sterling treated each other like strangers, but that didn’t mean she’d avoid him. The group, now including Ashley and Tim, headed towards Sterling’s entourage, Sterling watched them approach, his face impassive. Tanya, however, frowned, then quickly composed herself, her gaze cool and distant. Mark and Yonnie joined them, their faces grim at the sight of Ashley.
A few attendees still hadn’t greeted Tim. The ed to do so now. When it was Sterling’s turn, he extended a hand.“Mr. Hayes,” he said.
* Chapter 109