Chapter 173 Errands
Upon overhearing the exchange, Olivia found the scene unfolding before her somewhat amusing.
It struck her as curious that Nathan, known for his reserved nature, would have an assistant as loquacious as Ethan. Furthermore, Ethan’s flattery seemed to soar beyond the bounds of believability.
Oblivious to Olivia’s attentiveness, Ethan gracefully rose to pour wine for their two international colleagues, his expression smug with satisfaction as he watched them partake in the beverage.
As he continued to refill their glasses, he casually inquired, “How long have each of you been aligned with Ms. Monroe at Horizon Ventures?”
Their answers, “Two years” and “Just over a year,” respectively, prompted a light–hearted chuckle from Ethan, who commented, “So, it appears none of you are veterans within the company yet.”
The conversation among the foreign duo soon delved deeper, fueled perhaps by the wine.
“Despite our relatively short tenure with Ms. Monroe, we’ve been witnesses to her remarkable ascent within Horizon Ventures,” one began.
“Recollections of Ms. Monroe’s initial days at the company still circulate–how she was underestimated, her capabilities doubted. Yet, she silenced all skeptics through sheer skill and determination,” the other continued.
“You can’t imagine the adversity Ms. Monroe faced during those times…”
Their dialogue seemed endless, and observing them continue in this vein prompted Olivia to interject, her voice calm but laced with authority, “Don’t you think that’s quite enough?”
Her intervention was like a cool breeze, swift and cutting, effectively silencing them.
Ethan, catching Nathan’s gaze, could only offer a resigned shrug as an acknowledgment of the situation’s delicacy.
Olivia reached for a glass of juice, her expression cool, a subtle frostiness reflecting her desire to distance herself from the past’s shadows.
For her, dredging up bygone challenges served no purpose. The past was exactly that–the past, and revisiting it brought no benefit.
Nathan’s glance fell upon Olivia, noticing her downward gaze, the emotions she harbored in that moment eluding his understanding.
He averted his eyes, his own countenance a mask of tranquility. Yet, despite his outward calm, he felt an
inner turmoil.
The snippets of conversation had given him a glimpse into Olivia’s struggles–tales of resilience and growth
unknown to him.
This realization planted a seed of discomfort, the sensation of being both physically close yet separated by
an unseen barrier.
The meal concluded in a subdued silence following this exchange.
STL–1 fruch
-inli… M.. Cast
Finished
Chapter 173 Errands
that spoke volumes.
Nathan’s response was terse. “There’s no need for such formalities.”
The aftermath of the gathering was less than ideal, with the two foreigners visibly affected by their indulgence in wine, their coordination faltering.
Olivia’s concern was evident, her frown deepening at the sight.
The evening had started on a positive note, yet it was marred by the unexpected turn of events, leaving her with a mix of irritation and helplessness.
I’m truly sorry, Ms. Monroe. The responsibility for their overindulgence falls on me,” Ethan quickly interjected, reading Olivia’s displeasure and aiming to mitigate the situation with his apology.
Olivia’s response was dismissive, “It’s fine.”
Yet, Ethan, sensing the need for a practical solution, suggested, “Perhaps it would be best if I escorted them to the hotel. Given their condition, it’s unlikely they’ll be productive this afternoon.”
Acknowledging the pragmatism in his suggestion, Olivia consented, “That would be considerate of you, Mr. Thompson.
As Ethan assisted the inebriated guests, Nathan seized the opportunity to offer Olivia a ride, “I’ll take you home.”
“No, thank you,” Olivia swiftly declined, not giving the offer a second thought.
Nathan’s expression shifted subtly, a frown creasing his brow as he queried, “Are you sure?”
“Of course…” Olivia began, her words trailing off as a realization struck her. The car they had been using belonged to Carter Group, previously commandeered by Ethan for the journey to the hotel.
Nathan observed her with a laid–back ease, one hand casually tucked into his pocket, his gaze lingering on her as she pondered her next move.
After a moment of contemplation, Olivia declared, “I’ll just hail a taxi.”
“I just happen to be heading in that direction myself; I’ve got a few errands to run near Horizon Ventures later on,” Nathan replied smoothly, offering a convenient excuse.
He shot her a brief look, a silent indication he wasn’t waiting for a counterargument, before he turned to initiate the departure procedure for his vehicle.
Witnessing his departure, Olivia exhaled a resigned sigh. Although initially reluctant, she reasoned that rejecting a practical solution out of stubbornness served no purpose. If Nathan was insistent on offering a ride, she figured it might be wise to accept his kindness.
With a brisk pace, she followed after him.
Unbeknownst to Olivia, Nathan’s mentioned “errands” near her company were nonexistent.
17:58 Thu, 20 Mar G&
