Chapter 241

"But no matter what, as a shareholder in both companies, my identity is too obvious. So, I have to stay out of sight."

"Otherwise, if some people take advantage of it, that would be a disaster."

"True, I didn't think of that. I heard Alfonso is here too?"

"Yeah, he even tried to threaten me, but of course, I didn't let him get away with it."

"Good job. Alfonso's a real snake. You gotta watch your back with him."

Asher's blunt description made me laugh.

"Asher, you should get some rest. The bidding meeting starts at one. Even though I won't be there, Royce will be. Don't worry."

"Don't worry, I'm a grown-up businessman now. Nothing's gonna go wrong."

"Good. I'll be in the office this afternoon. We can meet after it's over."

After hanging up the phone, I went to freshen up, then changed into a professional outfit and applied light makeup, ready to go.

When I arrived at the company, I immediately saw Alfonso.

He walked up to me with a smile, greeting me as if nothing had happened yesterday.

"Ms. Sharp, you look even more stunning since the divorce."

Seeing his face, I felt a deep sense of dread. People like him, who harbor grudges but pretend nothing is wrong, are truly terrifying.

Who knows how he might try to get back at me behind my back.

I snorted coldly, "Really? Thanks for the compliment, Mr. Carr. I suggest you focus on preparing your bid. I heard there are many strong competitors today."

"Having real strength is more important than trying to take shortcuts, isn't it?"

Alfonso's smile froze, and an unreadable emotion flashed in his eyes.

But he quickly nodded, "Ms. Sharp, you're right. I'll keep that in mind."

I ignored him and turned to enter another office.

I was still worried about Asher. This was his first independent project since taking over the company. If he succeeded, he would establish himself in the industry with a high starting point.

It would almost guarantee a smooth path for him in the future.

As I sat in the office, feeling conflicted, Royce suddenly pushed the door open.

Today, he was wearing a pure black suit, which made him look incredibly restrained and composed.

His entire body was impeccably wrapped in the suit, sparking endless imagination.

Royce, standing nearly six feet tall with a lean and fit physique, was born to wear suits.

He always looked great in a suit.

I found myself staring at him for a long time until he waved his hand in front of me and chuckled, "What are you doing? Why are you staring at me like that?"

I coughed awkwardly, "Nothing, just lost in thought." Of course, I couldn't admit that I was mesmerized by him.

Royce laughed and didn't press the issue, "Asher has arrived. Do you want to see him?"

"No, let's wait until everything is over. I don't want to make it seem like I'm interfering."

He looked at me for a while and suddenly asked, "You seem really nervous."

"Are you worried about Asher?"

I thought Royce was really perceptive to notice my emotions.

I nodded, "How can I not be worried? This is Asher's first independent project since taking over the company."

"If he succeeds, his future will be secure."

"I naturally hope Asher has a smooth path ahead."

Royce patted my head, "Don't worry. You've probably assessed it yourself. Asher's company is the strongest contender. The project is likely to end up in his hands."

"Even if it doesn't, don't stress. He's got a long road ahead. Asher's young and has plenty of time."

I glanced at Royce, "You talk like you're much older, giving advice like an elder. You're the same age as Asher."

He shook his head without saying anything.

I sighed deeply, "Aren't you going? Don't they need you over there?"

"It hasn't started yet."

We nodded at each other. Just then, he suddenly put his arm around my shoulders and pulled me into his embrace.

"Alright, stop worrying."

He didn't realize that his action made my heart race even faster. I wanted to break free, but any attempt felt like I was being coy. He held me firmly.

"Royce? What are you doing?"

"I'm a bit nervous too. Let's support each other."

He said it so seriously, but I saw a playful smile in his eyes. I knew he was lying.

"Stop it. You don't look nervous at all."

"Who says? I'm actually very nervous. Feel it if you don't believe me."

He grabbed my hand and pressed it against his chest. I could hear his heart pounding, almost in sync with mine.

I widened my eyes, surprised that Royce was genuinely nervous.

"You..."

"Just kidding. Actually, every time I get close to you, my heart beats like this."

"Sorry, it seems to be beating too fast."

Royce's voice was still so gentle. He pursed his lips, and a faint scar on his lower lip hadn't faded yet.

I always avoided looking at that scar because it reminded me of what happened in the hospital that day.

I regretted that day, feeling I shouldn't have taken that step.

No matter what, Royce and I were from two different worlds, two extremes.

I had just escaped the mire of marriage, with four kids in tow, while Royce was a wealthy and handsome CEO, the dream husband for many girls. I shouldn't have been so impulsive.

Royce looked at my face and suddenly frowned, "Are you thinking about something negative again?"

"Like how you don't deserve me or something."

"Who taught you to despise yourself like this?"

I widened my eyes in disbelief, "How did you know?"

He chuckled, "Of course I know. I know everything about you."

"Let me tell you, no one is more suited for me than you. Stop thinking those negative thoughts. Underestimating yourself is a bad habit, Caroline."

"Even if someone better than me comes along, I believe he would fall for you without hesitation because you're so wonderful and outstanding."

"So now, I'm filled with a sense of crisis. I'm worried someone might steal you away."

"Open your eyes and look at the world. You'll see that there are many men better than me."

I laughed and shook my head, "Are you kidding?"

With Royce's qualities, how many could compare?

"You think that way because you like me too much."

As soon as I said that, I realized it was inappropriate and quickly covered my mouth.