Chapter 81
Zark and Ethan nodded, asking no further questions. Tanya, familiar with them, guided them to their seats.
It was almost time for dinner, but Chase, the guest of honor, was missing. Jay Holden hesitated about starting the banquet. He sought Tanya and Vivian’s opinions.
Tanya stated decisively, “Let’s begin.” They couldn’t let their guests wait, even though most would willingly wait.
“But…isn’t it inappropriate to start without Mr. Sterling?”
“It’s fine. He won’t mind.” Tanya spoke as if she were Chase himself. Her confidence highlighted their close relationship, impressing those present and further strengthening their desire to befriend the Monds.
Meanwhile, at the Jones family’s party….
Despite the diminished attendance, Amanda proceeded as planned.
After confirming everyone was present, she gave a speech, thanking the guests and apologizing for the disruption.
She received warm applause.
With the time approaching, Steve instructed the staff to serve dinner.
Tim said, Mr. Jones, could we wait a bit? Someone else is coming. He’ll be here soon, within ten minutes.”
Steve knew Tim’s close relationship with Ashley and appreciated his care for her.
Just one person? We have a seat at the main table. Would he mind joining us?”
Tim said, “He won’t mind.”
“Good.” Steve nodded, instructing the staff to serve the other tables first.
A few dishes had been served when Tim checked his phone and pulled Ashley aside.”He’s here. Let’s go
Ashley nodded.
As she turned, a familiar voice rang out.”No need, I’m already here.”
Ashley froze, turning around.”Professor Burke?”
Burke nodded to her.
downstairs.”
Those present were stunned, suspecting they’d misidentified him. Burke was a prominent figure in the tech world, a national icon. He was attending Amanda’s birthday party?
Amanda and Steve were equally surprised, rising to greet him. Burke, though reserved, showed respect towards elders he admired. He knew Amanda, so he quickly walked to her.”It’s okay. Don’t be so polite.”
Amanda settled down. Mr. Burke, your presence is an honor.”
“Mrs. Amanda Jones, you’re too kind,” Burke replied, sitting beside her.”I haven’t visited in years. I’m sorry for that.” He took a gift from Tim, presenting it to Amanda. “It was really sudden and I didn’t have time for getting you a decent gift. I hope you don’t mind.”
Amanda smiled. Mr. Burke, you’re too kind. Your presence is the greatest honor.”
After a brief exchange, Burke glanced at Ashley and Tim, who stood behind him like chastised children. They nodded, settling down beside him.
Amanda said, “Ashley has learned a lot from you.”
“It was my pleasure,” Burke replied.”She’s recently achieved significant results in her research. She hasn’t buried her talent. You can rest assured.”
Neither Burke nor Amanda had pressured Ashley about abandoning her studies because of Chase. They believed young people needed to experience
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