Chapter 201

Vespera was rendered speechless. What was there to look forward to, really? His blind date had nothing to do with her. His future grandchildren weren’t going to call her “Grandma,” after all.

“I’m happy for you, Mr. Reid. Your happiness means a lot to Tavian Group. Everyone’s hoping you’ll have a fulfilling marriage and a happy family,” she said, intentionally phrasing it as a collective sentiment.

Dominic shut his laptop. “Ms. Gildon, that was quite the speech. Ever thought about being an emcee?”

He nodded and said, rather sarcastically, “Good at burning bridges and emceeing—you really are a woman of many talents.”

Vespera felt like she had just taken a pinch to the lungs. Fine. She would let it go. She reminded herself of how he had helped her that morning and of his strengths. His sharp tongue was simply a flaw she would tolerate.

She smiled without replying. Dominic stood and walked out.

Inside the elevator, Vespera stood behind him as they descended. Suddenly, he let out a low groan, and his body swayed as if he were about to collapse. Alarmed, Vespera quickly stepped forward to support him.

“Mr. Reid? What’s wrong?” she asked with concern.

Dominic lowered his gaze. He seemed to be in agony, as if he had pulled a deep wound. Leaning slightly toward her, he asked in a strained voice, “Did you put poison on the needle?”

Vespera was so speechless that she almost choked on her own breath. She chuckled dryly. “Mr. Reid, if you’re just trying to avoid the blind date, don’t drag me into it.”

Dominic frowned. “Ms. Gildon, I’m starting to see through you. Your concern for me is all fake.”