But it was as if Hendrix could read Noelle's mind, because before she could say anything, he spoke up, "Mr. Russo, Ms. Swanson are you two close?"

His question left everyone momentarily stunned, and it clicked-they all remembered the history between Hendrix and Noelle. In that instant, cold sweat began to trickle down Dominic's back.

Noelle, however, remained composed. She smiled faintly and answered, "We're just friends."

"Oh. In that case, we're all friends here. There's no need for formalities," replied Hendrix as he raised his glass.

Everyone at the table immediately raised their glasses as well. After all, who would dare to refuse Hendrix?

Noelle didn't understand just what the heck Hendrix was thinking, but she had no choice but to lift her glass and drink along

But after i

just one round, Hendrix suddenly turned to Dominic and asked, "If I'm not mistaken, the South Garden project belongs to your company, right?"

"Yes," Dominic quickly answered, a big smile on his face. "We are grateful for your attention, Mr. Freeman."

"Itúnk that project is really done well. Amity Group actually has similar development plans in mind."

As soon as Hendrix finished speaking, Clayton's expression suddenly shifted. Noelle also sensed the change in the atmosphere.noveldrama

he

It was clear Dominic had no intention of competing with Clayton, but with Hendrix suddenly bringing it up, could only respond, "Is that so? I haven't heard that news before. What a shame our company's focus this year is

"Amity Group's development. Your company will only serve as a partner in the project and won't have to put up much investment. Or are you not interested in collaborating with me, Mr. Russo?"

"Of course not!" Dominic quickly responded, but beyond those few words, he couldn't find anything else to say.

Clayton let out a dry laugh from across the table. "Mr. Freeman, this project-

"Mr. Hayes, I'm not very familjar with the market in Vinton City," Hendrix interrupted, almost as if he knew exactly what Clayton was going to say. "And as a businessman, it's only natural for me to compare a few companies to make a well-informed and cautious decision

As soon as Hendrix said those words, the entire table fell into an awkward silence-making comparisons wasn't wrong, of course. The problem was that no one would ever say such a thing so bluntly in front of a potential business partner.

Hendrix's success in the business world over the years was, of course, partly due to the backing of Amity Group and his family. But what really set him apart was his sharp instinct and ruthless methods. Yet now, he seemed more like an inexperienced rookie, speaking without any regard for the consequences. But because of who he was, even such reckless remarks went unchallenged, as no one dared to confront him directly.

As the atmosphere teetered on the brink of freezing over, Noelle stood up.

"Mr. Freeman." Her crisp, clear voice drew everyone's attention to her.

Smiling, she continued, "What an unfortunate coincidence. My company recently finalized a partnership. agreement with Mr. Russo, and under the terms of our non-compete clause, it'll be near impossible for you to move forward with a partnership deal with him.

"You mentioned earlier that you're not very familiar with the market in Vinton City, correct? Well, I've been here for quite some time and have collaborated with Mr. Hayes on several occasions, so if there's anything you'd like to know, I'll be more than happy to help.

As she spoke, Nolle also lifted her glass. "But regardless, it's truly an honor to be dining with all of you today. A toast to you all."

Then, without waiting for Hendrix's reaction, she immediately tilted her head back and downed the entire glass of wine in one go.