Sylvia sat nearby, fully aware that Claire had made the call for her to overhear. Originally, Seth had been negotiating a partnership with HEGNAN. After two weeks of discussions, all the terms had been settled, and the contract was ready to be signed.
But just as Sylvia stepped away from work for a couple of days to deal with family matters, Claire swooped in and poached the client.
Clients are always free to make their own choices, and Sylvia hadn’t taken it personally. Still, she hadn’t expected Claire to come out swinging the moment they met, as if to put her in her place.
Sylvia found it rather amusing—it was clear now that Claire genuinely saw her as a formidable rival.
Nash and Oscar, who were more acquaintances than true friends, made small talk for a few minutes before each found an excuse to sit elsewhere.
Claire returned to Oscar’s side and whispered, “Wasn’t this supposed to be a private meeting? How did Nash find out about it?”
Oscar looked just as puzzled, then brushed it off with a hint of disdain. “Norton set this up, and he’s much closer to us. There’s nothing to worry about.”
Claire smiled, “As long as you’re feeling confident, President Raye.”
Oscar’s gaze flickered to Nash and Sylvia, and a faint smile touched his lips. “Though, with Sylvia here, I am a bit on edge.”
Claire grinned and teased, “What are you saying, President Raye? Do you think I'm not as capable as Sylvia?”
Oscar immediately replied, “Just kidding. If you help me close this deal, I’ll double your PR fee. How about that?”
Claire brightened. “You have a deal, President Raye!”
Oscar nodded. “Of course. My word means something—I'm not one to blow promises away like the wind.”
Claire’s lips curled into a confident smile. “I won’t let you down, President Raye.”
It wasn’t just about the money—it was about pride. In recent years, Sylvia’s company had been growing rapidly and was threatening to overtake her own. Tonight, Claire was determined to pull off a comeback and prove to everyone that she was still the strongest contender in J City.
It seemed the defense factory was a joint venture between the higher-ups and Silver Valley.
No wonder Gabriel had spent so much time in J City recently—it was for this project.
There was no time for further thought. Nash had already started walking over with Sylvia in tow. With the calm poise of a seasoned professional, Nash offered a polite yet dignified greeting. “Mr. Bard, it’s an honor to finally meet you.”
Sylvia’s eyes met Gabriel’s, and she couldn’t help but smile.
To everyone else, it looked like nothing more than polite courtesy.
Gabriel’s expression was as cold and distant as ever. He glanced briefly at Sylvia before fixing his gaze on Nash.
Under the scrutiny of Gabriel’s sharp, penetrating eyes, Nash felt a chill scalp. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Mr. Bard didn't think much of him.

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