Chapter 133

Nightfall approached. Chad knocked on the door. "Miss Rowland, it's time. I'll escort you."

Thea opened the door, her eyes filled with disgust and impatience. "I'll go with Miss Sandy. There's no need to trouble you."

Chad insisted, "That won't do. If anything happens to you, it's my responsibility. I hope you understand my position as an employee." She mentally complained, "He's as annoying as a fly."

Upon arriving at the restaurant, Chad was thankfully called away for a drink, giving Thea a chance to breathe. She sat beside April, silently observing the dinner guests. A distinguished-looking middle-aged man sat at the center of the table.

April whispered, "That's Brannon Grant, a local entrepreneur. The terrain here is ideal for competitions, so he organizes most of them." Thea's eyebrows rose. "We're here to compete. Is it appropriate to dine with the organizer?"

April smiled, a look of "You're too naive" on her face. She gestured to the others at the table: a mix of men and women. "Not only the organizer, but also the judges," she explained.

Thea gasped, glancing repeatedly at Corey. She found the situation absurd yet understandable, given Corey's personality. He caught her gaze and smiled, his already handsome face even more striking. Thea nodded curtly, then shrank back, wishing to be less conspicuous.

With organizers and judges present, she wanted to avoid trouble. Despite the lavish spread, Thea had no appetite, preoccupied with her escape strategy.

Then, an unwelcome voice interrupted. Brannon's gaze fell on Thea. His smile was gentle, but his eyes sent a chill down her spine. Corey followed his gaze, waving Thea over.

"This is a racer on my team," Corey announced. "Although young and a woman, her skills are superb. Most impressively, she's not even a professional, yet possesses such talent. With training, she'll be even more capable."

Brannon nodded, his gaze lingering on Thea. She was simply dressed, but her striking features—bright eyes, white teeth, and natural beauty—were captivating. Her expressionless face held an almost goddess-like aura.

Chad, noticing Brannon's reaction, whispered, "Mr. Grant, she's quite arrogant. She doesn't take anyone seriously."

"Oh, is that so?" Brannon's interest piqued. He preferred those who resisted; it made things more interesting.

"You work for Mr. Sandy, right?" Brannon asked. He and Chad exchanged a knowing glance. "There will be many opportunities to collaborate with Mr. Sandy. If you're smart, I'll put in a good word for you."

Corey frowned, noticing Thea's hesitation. "Don't go," April urged, gripping Thea's hand. "I sense ill intentions."

Thea nodded. "I feel it too. Even if you get drunk, you still have me," April reassured her. "Don't worry, Corey isn't going anywhere."

Touched, Thea replied, "Thank you, but it's fine. I've seen this before." Her past experiences working for Jake at Avon Ventures had exposed her to all sorts of people. If Brannon was a thug, she considered herself a professional.

She stood, approaching them with a cup of coffee. She politely pushed Brannon's wine glass aside. "I'm sorry, Mr. Grant. I'm still a bit delicate, but I'm sure someone as gentle and tolerant as you wouldn't mind. I haven't been feeling well; alcohol would make it worse."

Though annoyed, Brannon couldn't argue after her compliment. He forced a smile. "You're right. I'll punish myself with a cup." After drinking, he gestured to Thea. "Come, sit. I admire young people with your courage and fearlessness." Chad added, "Miss Rowland, Mr. Grant has discerning taste. Few catch his attention; you're one of them."

The others agreed; it seemed an honor to be chosen by him. But Thea remained oblivious to their implications.

"Since getting married, I've rarely raced," she explained. "I wouldn't be here if not for this collaboration with Mr. Sandy. I hope the competition goes smoothly." She raised her coffee in a toast.

Brannon's expression hardened, glaring at Corey. "Mr. Sandy, your subordinate seems unaware of the rules."

Corey smiled. "Mr. Grant, that's inaccurate. Miss Rowland's meaning is clear. We're only temporarily collaborating. She's not my subordinate, and it's not my concern." He gave Thea a knowing look. She mentally cursed, 'How crafty. He's washing his hands of me!'

Brannon relaxed, his tone arrogant. "So, she's not your subordinate. No wonder she's ignorant of the rules. But it doesn't matter; it's her first time. I'll give her a chance tonight. Coax me, and I'll teach her the rules."