Better 38

Posted by Adminh, ? Views, Released on October 28, 2024

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Chapter 38

Harley watched as Lenora and Dashnell walked into the office, and the first thing that came to mind was Dashnell’s words from his live interview that morning.

“So, Mr. Rush, what do you think of Ms. Maynard?”

“She’s great. I really admire her. She’s one of the best women I’ve ever met.”

Since Future Tech went public last week, Dashnell, the rising star, had been scrutinized from every angle. Rumor had it that he hadn’t had a single woman by his side for years. But just yesterday, he had dinner with Lenora right after returning from Marizieu.

As a man himself, Harley knew that if a guy admired a woman, it usually meant the

guy liked her.

Harley didn’t need to be there for this partnership, but for some reason, he had Matthew push the meeting back and come in person.

Before arriving, he wasn’t sure why he felt compelled to come, but seeing Lenora and Dashnell together made it clear. He couldn’t accept that his ex–wife had moved on so quickly after their divorce.

‘Is her love for me really that fleeting?‘ A wave of frustration washed over him, and his expression grew colder. Even when Dashnell approached to greet him, he barely acknowledged him his gaze fixed on Lenora.

She looked gentle today, reminding him of their time in the Brandt residence. But she was different now; the obedient Lenora had transformed into a thorny rose.

Matthew, sensing the tension, nudged Harley’s foot. Harley shot him an annoyed glance before turning to Dashnell. “Mr. Rush, we’re discussing business here. With outsiders present, it might not be appropriate.”

Everyone knew who the outsider referred to.

Lenora raised an eyebrow, about to speak, but Dashnell cut in. “Why don’t you take a look around?”

Dashnell was being intentional, and Lenora felt a headache coming on. She couldn’t embarrass her friend, so she smiled and nodded. “Sure.”

It had been a while since she last visited the office, so she figured it would be a good chance to check things out.

The founders of Future Tech knew Lenora was a major shareholder and respected her privacy preference, so they never addressed her as the president.

After acknowledging Dashnell, she turned and left to visit the R&D department, which was the core of the company. Everyone there had fought alongside Dashnell, and Lenora knew them all.

Once she stepped out of the office, she ordered some pastries to send to R&D before heading over herself.

Watching Lenora and Dashnell interact so comfortably only deepened the darkness in Harley’s eyes.

Dashnell broke the silence, glancing at Harley. “Mr. Brandt, we have the introduction for our two new smart robots. Would you like to take a look?”

Harley suppressed his thoughts, focusing on Dashnell. “No need, Mr. Rush. Let’s get straight to the point.”

The negotiation lasted forty–five minutes and went smoothly, but Harley maintained a cold demeanor throughout. Matthew, acting as secretary, felt increasingly awkward.

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Chapter 38

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Dashnell was known for his aloofness in business, yet he was polite and maintained a respectful distance, making it hard for anyone to get close.

Comparing Harley’s behavior to Dashnell’s, Matthew felt his boss was falling short.

Once the deal was signed, Dashnell invited Harley to lunch politely, but Harley declined coldly. He had no desire to eat with his ex–wife’s boyfriend.

Matthew filled the silence with small talk awkwardly, but when he turned around, he saw Harley had already walked away. He hurried after him, slipping into the elevator just before the doors closed.

Looking at Harley’s icy expression, Matthew hesitated to ask anything. ‘Mr. Brandt’s sudden personal visit to discuss matters with Dashnell, if it weren’t for Lenora, I’m willing to perform a handstand on the spot.

“Is Dashnell really that impressive?” Harley suddenly asked, breaking Matthew’s thoughts.

Matthew paused, glancing at Harley’s stiff face. “Mr. Rush is certainly talented, but he can’t compare to you.”

Harley scoffed. “Flatterer.”

Matthew was at a loss for words. While it might sound like flattery, it was the truth.Dashnell was impressive, but so was Harley.

People often said Harley was born with a silver spoon, but he wasn’t the only one and there weren’t many of them who could develop their family business like he did.

It was always easier to seize power than to maintain it. While Harley’s family had built a solid foundation, the world was changing rapidly.

Many once–thriving industries had collapsed, yet Harley’s company remained strong. It was a testament to his ability to hold the fort.

Matthew understood Harley’s feelings, so despite feeling a bit wronged, he didn’t argue.

The elevator fell silent, and Harley frowned. “Why so quiet? You used to talk a lot.”

Matthew jumped slightly. “Mr. Brandt, I meant what I said earlier.”

Harley smirked coldly. “So, do you think Lenora is a better match for me or for Dashnell?”

That was a loaded question. Matthew felt his heart drop as Harley’s piercing gaze made it hard to breathe. Just as he was about to betray his conscience, he spotted a familiar figure.

It was Lenora.

Matthew felt like he had found a lifeline and quickly pointed to the left side of the elevator. “Mr. Brandt, it’s Ms. Maynard.”

Harley frowned. “You really like her, don’t you? Getting all excited.”

‘Am I even wrong to breathe now?‘ Matthew felt speechless.

After shooting Matthew a cold glance, Harley turned to see Lenora’s figure.

He bit his lip and quickly walked over.

As Lenora reached her car, she caught sight of Harley approaching in the rearview mirror. She raised an eyebrow and opened the car door but didn’t rush in, resting a hand on the door and watching him walk closer.