Chapter 195 The Grand Opening
C
Finished
Shawn had a wide network of connections, and many people showed up for the grand opening, bringing plenty of gifts.
What’s more, he secured business deals with several major companies. Even a few local state–owned enterprises unexpectedly took the initiative to sign cooperation agreements with us–something I hadn’t anticipated.
Shawn took the opportunity to ask me, “Are these connections yours?”
I was just as confused.
Though it all seemed a bit strange, we did sign the contracts. We would be responsible for the reception business for the next three years.
Ethan, whom I hadn’t seen in a long time, also came to offer his congratulations today. He’d been busy lately managing his company’s affairs. It was clear he was a bit worn out, but it didn’t take away from his refined appearance.
Wearing glasses, Ethan looked cultured and intelligent. He’d told me long ago that he wanted to entrust his reception needs to us, and today, he brought their department head to sign the agreement.
Shawn’s expression didn’t look too good, but since this was business, as the boss, he naturally had to put on a sincere front.
“Thank you for your strong support, Mr. Hayes. Looking forward to a great partnership,” Shawn said, shaking Ethan’s hand in front of everyone.
Ethan smiled politely. “I promised Tiffany I’d do this, so of course I had to follow through. No need to thank me, Mr. Hartwell.”
I stood by listening, lips curved in a smile. Ethan knew about me and Shawn, so there was definitely a bit of provocation in his tone.
After Ethan entered the reception room and took a seat, Shawn suddenly grabbed my hand in front of everyone and pulled me aside to speak in a corner.
“Ethan came here for your sake, didn’t he? Tiffany, don’t tell me you’re really involved with him now?” Shawn asked me with a hint of anger.
“Today is a big day. Why bring up such negative talk? It’s all for business. Try to be a little more gracious,” I said with a smile, trying to soothe him.
“I can’t be gracious,” Shawn said through gritted teeth, hands on his hips, taking a few deep breaths. “We’re not even divorced yet, and he’s already taking the stage. Who’s the impatient one here?”
I gave him a calm glance. “Can’t handle it, Mr. Hartwell? Doesn’t say much for your magnanimity.”
“Tiffany, did he help you land those deals with the state–owned enterprises? I heard he’s been working with the government a lot lately,” Shawn pressed, regaining his composure but becoming forceful.
I was stunned. Was it really Ethan who helped me?
But he hadn’t said anything about it before. This wasn’t a small matter. If he had helped me, I’m sure he would’ve mentioned
it beforehand.
“Why don’t you do it? You’re shameless–go ask those department heads yourself,” I said. I was curious too. Who had pulled strings for me behind the scenes?
Shawn’s face darkened. “Do you really think I’m that shameless?”
“If you won’t ask, then forget it. The deal’s already done. Just remember what you promised. I’m taking half the profits. Don’t pretend you forgot when the time comes.” My tone cooled as I reminded him.
11:29 AM
Chapter 195 The Grand Opening
smiling? Is he just born stingy with joy?
10
Finished
Today’s grand opening ceremony was lavish. The former Apex Hotel–now renamed Lumen Dreams Hotel–had undergone a complete transformation. It felt like stepping from one era into another. The change was striking.
The hotel’s name was carefully crafted with expert consultation. The entrance boasted an exquisite design, with layouts designed to attract wealth–clever and elegant.
The atmosphere was festive and celebratory, with nearly 60 banquet tables set up.
As the hotel’s manager, I was in the spotlight today. I wore a rose–red gown, hair swept up high, confident and graceful as I moved through the VIP crowd. My poised demeanor even caught Shawn off guard.
In his eyes, I had always been the image of a stay–at–home wife. Even if naturally beautiful, it had always been hidden beneath the daily grind of household chores–like an uncut gem hidden beneath the ordinary.
Something that, when seen occasionally, felt fresh–but stared at too long, lost its flavor.
Men often like gentle, pure women at first–the kind that feels safe to keep at home.
But once she becomes dazzling and radiant, she becomes a threat. In the end, men still want to control a woman’s entire life -for her to bear children, be thoughtful, support her husband, and raise their children.
She is not to burn bright like fire or stir the senses like strong wine–something they must chase and admire from afar.
Today, Jace, my last–minute assistant, was bustling around me, helping pour wine and serve drinks.
He wore a mask, saying he’d had an allergic reaction around his mouth yesterday–a patch of redness.
Slightly tipsy, I caught sight of Shawn among the crowd. The way he looked at me was dazed and captivated.
It wasn’t just him. Many men’s gazes lingered on me. They were all filled with admiration and a faint possessiveness.
Shawn sat at the most prominent table, surrounded by important guests. He was supposed to be entertaining them, but his mind seemed elsewhere. He kept drifting over to exchange a few words with me.
After making the rounds and toasting guests, slightly intoxicated, I went on stage after Shawn and a few other key figures gave their speeches. As the manager, I made a brief appearance. Applause thundered around me. During the ribbon–cutting ceremony, Shawn stood right beside me. His fingers suddenly reached out–and clasped mine, tightly.
Send Gifts
