Chapter 32
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Walker,” the people around Ariel greeted her politely.
But no one bothered to bring up anything remotely related to her expertise. After the formal greetings, they turned their attention back to Chad, diving into discussions about industry trends and technological reforms.
In an industry dominated by men, it was no surprise that women were often sidelined.
Prejudice always came first.
Ariel had anticipated this kind of treatment and remained composed. She quietly listened to their conversation.
XAM
Chad had someone important he wanted to introduce her to. “See the man in the gray suit over there? He’s a high- ranking government official, and his insight into upcoming policy changes will be crucial. He’s someone you definitely want to leave a good impression on tonight.”
Ariel was surprised to hear someone at that level was here.
She now understood just how high–profile this banquet was. Chad guided her toward the man.
When they approached, the man saw Chad and greeted him with a warm smile. “Mr. Hockney, it’s been a while.” Before Chad could introduce Ariel, a stir near the entrance caught their attention.
Ariel turned around and saw Nancy walking in, arm–in–arm with Jayson. Her elegance was evident as she greeted those nearby.
When Jayson arrived, the other big names in the room immediately perked up and hurried over to greet him. Ariel couldn’t help but focus on their outfits.
Nancy wore a green dress that was nearly the same shade as Ariel’s. Her neckline was encrusted with diamonds in varying sizes, which caught the light with every movement.
Meanwhile, Jayson wore a suit with a pocket square that matched Nancy’s dress.
What a subtle display of affection.
The suit that matched her dress whing he had never touched even once.
Ariel’s lips curled into a sardonic smile, and her vision turned blurry. She wasn’t sure whether to laugh at herself for having spent three years as a joke or at how insignificant she felt now.
Chad glanced at Ariel. She didn’t show any outward emotion, yet he couldn’t shake the uncomfortable feeling in his gut.
Before long, Jayson and Nancy started making their way over.
Chad frowned at once as he realized what they were trying to do.
When Jayson walked over, he glanced at Ariel and noticed the dress she was wearing. He paused in his steps for a
moment.
Ariel noticed his glance.
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With their matching colors, she couldn’t help but feel like the odd one out, as if she were intruding on their perfect little world.
Nancy spared Ariel a brief glance as well, then quickly turned her attention back to Chad and the important official.
Jayson greeted Chad and the man, “Mr. Pearce, Mr. Hockney.”
“Who’s this beside you, Mr. Larkin?” Jonathan Pearce asked.
Jayson nodded slightly. “This is Nancy Stanton. She specializes in aerospace research and just completed her PhD abroad. She’s an exceptional talent.”
a second
He praised Nancy but didn’t spare glance at Ariel, nor did he intend to greet her. He acted as if they were complete strangers.
It was clear he was distancing himself from her.
Jonathan was surprised. “She’s so young, though!”
Nancy smiled graciously. “You flatter me, Mr. Pearce.”
Jonathan seemed intrigued. “Why don’t we sit down later and discuss your ideas? I’d love to hear more.‘
With Jayson’s endorsement, no one would dare underestimate Nancy.
As far as Jonathan was concerned, if Jayson admired her, she must be remarkable.
In a good mood, Jonathan turned to Chad. “Let’s chat later.!
Chad nodded politely, but once Jonathan walked off, his face tightened.
What was Jayson trying to pull? How could he swoop in out of nowhere?
He was just about to introduce Ariel. This was a crucial opportunity for her comeback. But Jayson showed up with Nancy, making a grand entrance and stealing the spotlight!
“Mr. Hockney, you know how rare top talent is. My proposal from last time still stands. You should consider it. Nancy won’t disappoint you,” Jayson said confidently.
Nancy glanced at the quiet Ariel before saying, “Mr. Hockney, I’ll bring you the greatest benefit.”
Chad was taken aback by how much Jayson seemed to favor Nancy. And he didn’t even try to hide it from Ariel.
It suddenly hit him how difficult Ariel’s situation must be.
But they were all professionals here, so Chad responded with the usual phrase, “Of course. Ms. Stanton is so impressive. I’ll give it some serious thought.”
This industry was all about appearances.
In other words, people paid lip service without ever intending to take action.
Jayson must’ve picked up on Chad’s words. He threw a glance at Ariel, almost as if saying that she was truly something to make Chad listen to her.
Ariel frowned at Jayson, but he had already turned away and led Nancy as they walked off. Soon, a group of people
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gathered around them.
They were all warm and eager, unlike the cold indifference they had shown toward Ariel.
Chad’s plan was disrupted.
With Jayson around, Nancy was the center of attention tonight, the one everyone wanted to befriend.
No matter how talented Ariel was, no one was willing to pass up the opportunity to connect with Jayson just to get to know
her.
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