Chapter 23
Tim nodded, surprised. “Yes, do you know her?”
“She’s my half-sister.”
Tim was stunned. He knew about her family, but he didn’t expect
Ashley’s tone was cold. She’s also Chase’s mistress.”
The car braked suddenly. Tim’s eyes widened.”You…”
this.
Ashley shook her head. I’m fine. I just don’t want her in our company.”
Tim agreed.”I know.”
Ashley felt warmth. Thank you. But you’re losing a genius.”
Tim laughed, looking at her.”Compared to you, she’s nothing.”
Ashley was stunned. Tim knew what she was thinking.”It’s the truth.”
Ashley asked, “She interviewed a while ago. Why hasn’t she started?”
Tim shook his head.”She said she had things to handle. I didn’t ask.”
They arrived. Ashley was thoughtful.
Tim asked, “What’s wrong?”
“I don’t understand why she wants to join our company.” There were better companies and Tanya had many choices.
Ashley was a major shareholder but her identity wasn’t public; Tanya shouldn’t know her connection to the company. So it was Nothing personal.
Tim chuckled.”She mentioned our programming language and her interest in SLAM.”
SLAM was Ashley’s creation at 17.
It was initially considered ordinary but became their company’s greatest asset; it was unbreakable. Tanya’s purpose was definitely SLAM.
“Many talented people joined our company because of it.”
Ashley was surprised. Tim ruffled her hair. “That’s why I said she was nothing compared to you.”
He knew how talented Ashley was; he was once a renowned genius himself.
When they arrived, the banquet hall was almost full.
Ashley’s beauty and elegance immediately attracted attention.
The host, acquainted with Tim, greeted them.
As he was about to speak, more guests arrived.
The host and other guests were surprised.
Ashley and Tim were facing away from the entrance. Seeing the guests’ shocked and delighted expressions, they turned around. The host went to greet
the newcomers.
“Mr. Sterling, Mr. Green, Mr. Smith…”
Ashley’s heart skipped a beat.
She turned, her smile faltering. It was Chase, Zark, and Ethan. Tanya was with them, wearing the $30 million purple gown she’d seen at the boutique! Tanya’s figure and confident aura, combined with the dress, made her look both alluring and unattainable,
“Wow! They rarely attend banquets. Why are they here?”
“And who’s that woman? Chase’s plus one? She’s amazing! I’d give up ten years of my life to have her!”
But I prefer the woman in the beige dress. She’s elegant and serene. Too bad she’s taken…”
Someone gasped. That dress! I saw it yesterday! I heard it was custom-made. It’s over $30 million!”
“What?!$30 million?!
Mer
Ashley lowered her eyes. She’d already guessed that Chase had gotten it for Tanya. Her family’s business was thriving, but they couldn’t afford a $30 million outfit for a single banquet. It was nothing to Chase, though. He truly cared for Tanya. The dress was custom-made two weeks ago; he’d planned to bring Tanya to this banquet.
Tim knew Chase rarely attended banquets. He hadn’t expected this. He looked at Ashley worriedly, “Ashley…”
Ashley smiled calmly.
I’m fine.”
She was initially shocked but had moved on.
Many people approached Chase’s group; they didn’t notice Ashley.
Tim knew that Ashley was strong-willed and determined. In her profession, she dedicated herself completely, even if the outcome wasn’t commercially viable.
She believed in trying.
The same applied to relationships. She loved Chase and had sacrificed her career for her family. She didn’t regret it. He believed her when she said she was fine.
He smiled. Want a drink?”
Ashley smiled at him.”Sure.”
They went to the food area.
Want some wine?”
“A little.” Ashley didn’t like alcohol but could hold her liquor. They clinked glasses, quietly sipping wine.
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