Chapter 105
"I can't believe you got the old lady's approval," Zane said, looking at Christina with newfound respect. His usual laid-back attitude had shifted to one of admiration. "She must've seen something special in you, especially at your age."
"Of course," Kingsley added with a grin. "Christina led the design for the transoceanic bridge project. Despite her age, she's got an impressive resume."
Christina was surprised that Kingsley had done such thorough research on her. It must have been part of his due diligence before partnering with her-trust but verify, as they say.
Zane raised his glass. "I have a lot of respect for Ms. Windsor, but the project team will be the real challenge. Let's have a drink and hope our collaboration goes smoothly."
Christina immediately lifted her glass. "I should be the one to toast you."
"It's all the same," Zane said with a warm smile, raising his glass.
Christina smiled politely, clinked glasses with Zane, and downed her drink in one go.
Just as she set her glass down, a commotion erupted nearby. "Mr. Cavendish, your presence truly graces our humble abode."
Turning around, Christina saw William, naturally accompanied by Jennifer. She hadn't expected to run into them here-what rotten luck.
Kingsley put down his glass. "I need to introduce you to the rest of the project team. You've made a great impression today; they'll come to respect you soon enough."
Christina nodded with a smile. "Alright."
They headed upstairs; the venue was expansive, with private lounges on the upper floors.
William suddenly felt a strange gaze on him and looked in that direction. The figure in red seemed oddly familiar.
Jennifer, noticing his distraction, asked with a smile, "Mr. Cavendish, what are you looking at?"
William snapped back to reality. "Nothing."
But his eyes involuntarily drifted back to the red figure, a peculiar feeling rising within him.
Jennifer, sensing his unease, followed his gaze and smiled slightly. "That lady has quite the presence. Do you find her familiar too?"
William frowned slightly. He wouldn't show any interest in Christina in front of Jennifer. "Maybe it's just my imagination."
They continued mingling at the party, while Christina and Kingsley engaged in initial discussions with the project team in an elegantly decorated private lounge.
"If the old lady approves, what more can we say? But this project is tied to our international image, so..." The team members swirled their drinks thoughtfully.
Christina nodded. "I understand. I know my place."
"Since the Rockefeller Family recommended you, we can't really object," one man said with a smile, though Christina sensed some reluctance. The Rockefeller Family had a major stake in the project, and unless they withdrew, there was little chance of changing the personnel.
After a moment of thought, Christina spoke up. "How about this: we don't rush to sign the contract. Let's start with the design. Once you're satisfied with the work, we can finalize the agreement."
The team exchanged glances, finally looking to Kingsley.
Kingsley frowned. With the Rockefeller Family's backing, Christina didn't need to take such risks. A few standout projects would quickly establish her reputation in the architectural world.
Understanding Kingsley's concern, Christina said, "Mr. Kingsley Rockefeller, I know you trust me, but this is my first major project. If I don't prove myself, I won't feel confident moving forward."
"If that's how you feel, I support you," Kingsley nodded. He had come to see Christina as someone with strong self-respect. If she wanted the team's full approval, he would respect that.
If she couldn't win them over, he had other projects for her.
Midway through the event, Kingsley received a call and excused himself. "I have something to handle. I'll be back soon. Make yourself comfortable."
He stepped out onto the terrace, where the call was from the old lady.
"How's it going? Has she been accepted?" she asked with a smile.
"These people are tough. It's not that easy," Kingsley sighed. "I could force it, but..."
"But what?" she pressed.
Kingsley recounted the recent events.
The old lady found it amusing. "Doesn't she remind you of me?"
"Of course, anyone you approve of would," Kingsley laughed.
"Don't forget what I asked you to do," she said, her tone suddenly serious.
"Don't worry, I won't," Kingsley assured her.
Back in the lounge, after a few more exchanges, the team members gradually left, leaving Christina alone.
Feeling a bit bored, she decided to take a walk. As she reached the staircase, she ran into William and Jennifer.
"What a coincidence," William said with a hint of mockery.
Christina smiled calmly and greeted them. "Uncle, Ms. Spencer, I didn't expect to see you here."
Jennifer looked Christina up and down, a complex emotion in her eyes. "Ms. Windsor, you look stunning tonight. But with your status, you wouldn't normally get into an event like this. How did you manage it?"
Christina smiled slightly, not intending to explain much. "I was lucky to have a friend's invitation."
Jennifer scoffed. "Are you scheming for another 'chance encounter'?"
"Chance encounter? In a place like this? Not everyone revolves their life around men like you do," Christina retorted coolly.
William's expression darkened, clearly displeased with her response.
Christina, feeling she had been polite enough, turned to leave.
But William suddenly blocked her path. "Christina, who have you latched onto now?"
Jennifer sneered. "Christina, using your body might get you temporary wealth, but you should think about the long term."