Chapter 32 You Are Really
“I’m not afraid of that,” Athena replied, her voice calm and steady. “If I can’t handle it, then I shouldn’t be the CEO.”
“Athena…” Byron began, but she cut him off. “Don’t call me like that!” Athena snapped, shaking off his hand.
Byron stood frozen for a moment, stunned by her reaction.
“Why are you going back to Girard City? Why are you asking me to go with you?” Athena asked, her tone unwavering.
Byron looked at her, his gaze cold. “You’re really ungrateful,” he said bitterly before turning and striding away.
Athena stood there, her mind racing. Was this really the last time? Would Byron finally leave her alone?
Meanwhile, at the restaurant next door, Gideon was already waiting.
He was taken aback to see Athena arrive alone. He had heard about Byron’s presence in Salin City and was surprised to learn that the two of them had crossed paths.
“Where’s Byron?” Gideon asked, his eyes scanning behind her.
“He went back to Girard City,” Athena replied, pulling out her computer to focus on work.
“I’ve already ordered the meals. Let’s eat before we talk about it,” Gideon said, gesturing to the table.
Athena looked unwell, her face pale as if she were ill.
“Don’t blame me for the gossip, but are you two back together?” Gideon asked, his curiosity getting the best of him.
Athena gave him a sharp look. “Mr. Hale, it’s strange for you to say that. When have I ever been with Byron? And how could we possibly be back together?”
Gideon fell silent, realizing how incisive Athena’s words were.
“Miss Newton, I do appreciate you,” Gideon continued, trying to change the topic. He poured coffee for Athena and added, “I’ve reviewed both the Maxwell Electronics matter and the overall planning for the project. You’re doing excellent work.”
“Just be direct. Enough of the riddles,” Athena said, her patience thinning.
Gideon chuckled despite being called out. “Alright, then. I’ll be frank,” he said, his tone serious. “Stop hanging out with Byron. The marriage between the Crawford family and the Ross family will bring huge benefits. They’re putting a lot of importance on it…”
Athena smiled, shaking her head. “Gideon, you think too highly of me. I’ve been sober for the past five years, but have you gotten confused? I’m just a substitute for Freya. And as you said, the marriage between Byron and the Ross family is about profit. Why would he give up all that for me?”
“Even if he won’t, I’m afraid that others will worry about the same thing,” Gideon said, his words carrying weight.
Athena lowered her gaze, considering his words carefully.
Gideon’s point made sense. She didn’t know anything about Miss Ross, but no woman would willingly accept being the ‘other woman,’ especially when there were family interests at stake. Even if she could endure it, would the Ross family tolerate it?
“I know what to do,” Athena replied quietly, a sense of resolve in her voice.
It seemed like her time in Girard City was coming to an end. After her visit to Salin City, she would leave.
After dinner, Athena and Gideon continued discussing the situation on the construction site. Most of the conversation was Gideon’s, with Athena listening carefully, taking notes as usual.
As they neared the end of their discussion, Gideon asked, “So, what do you think about meeting with Carlos?”
Athena replied, “I don’t think there’s any need to meet with him anymore. We’ll just call him and let him go directly to the scene tomorrow.”