As Valarie reflected on their relationship, she became more and more irritated, recalling how she had always been the one putting in the effort. Not only had Tom never given her anything, but he had also shamelessly flirted with other women. How could she have been so blind five years ago to fall for someone like him?

"The most important thing is not letting him interfere with your relationship with Brandon," Nyla reminded her.

Although Valarie hadn't said as much, Nyla could tell she was serious about Brandon. It was clear she was already thinking about marriage.

In Nyla's opinion, while Brandon was young and still maturing, his love for Valarie was genuine and that was enough. "Don't worry. I've been throwing everything Tom sends straight into the trash without telling Brandon," Valarie replied. Nyla paused, then advised, "You might want to mention it to Brandon, just to avoid misunderstandings down the line." Valarie was about to respond when she noticed Brandon approaching. She stood up. "That was quick. Done talking already?" "Mm," Brandon replied. "Let's go."

As Nyla stood, she asked Valarie, "Want to stay for dinner?"

Valarie shook her head. "No, we have plans later."

Nyla didn't press further. She and Damon walked them to the door and watched them drive off before heading back inside.

"Nyla," Damon called suddenly.

She turned to him. "What is it?"

"There's a bidding event tomorrow evening. Will you come with me?" Damon asked.noveldrama

"A bidding event? Are you sure I should go to something like that?" Nyla inquired.

"Why not? Besides, there are some pharmaceutical projects involved. You can help me evaluate whether they're a good fit for Prospectus Technology," Damon suggested.

Nyla thought about it, then nodded. "Okay."

The next evening, Nyla accompanied Damon to the event after work.

As soon as they entered, they ran into Jane and Gabriel.

Jane greeted Damon with a smile, "Good evening, Mr. Sumner. I didn't expect you to attend this event, thought Prospectus Technology wouldn't be interested in such small projects!"

Damon's expression remained neutral as he replied, "You sound confident, Ms. Wilkie. It seems you're determined to win these. 'small projects'. I'm curious how many the Wilkie Group will manage to secure tonight."

The Wilkie Group had just recovered from a crisis and likely didn't have the funds to bid aggressively. Getting even one or two projects

UMS

would already be an achievement.

Jane's smile stiffened as she said, "Don't worry, Mr. Sumner. I'll do my best for the Wilkie Group."

"I'll be watching," Damon replied with a chuckle before walking away with Nyla.

Jane glared at their retreating figures, her eyes filled with frustration.

Every time she thought about how Damon had abandoned the Wilkie Group during its darkest days, her hatred grew.

If only Prospectus Technology could face a similar crisis! Then Damon would understand the despair and fear she had felt!

Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she turned to find Gabriel distracted. Her anger boiled over.

"Gabriel! Were you blind just now? Didn't you see how Damon humiliated me? And you just stood there doing nothing! Are you even a man?!" she demanded.