Chapter 505

Capitalists never really change—they’re always out for profit. Edward only said that because he didn’t get his way.

I looked away from his gloomy eyes and kept my head down, poking at the food in my bowl.

When I didn’t answer, Edward lost interest, too. He just picked up his fork and went back to eating the spicy fish.

“So, have you decided when you’re heading to Braylin?” Edward suddenly asked, sounding all concerned about my plans.

I was a little startled inside and looked up at him. “What did Ryan tell you?”

Edward replied coolly, “Just some small talk. He said you’re set on going to Braylin and won’t join The Jennings Group. He admitted he’s a bit disappointed, but he respects your choice.”

I bit my fork and asked, “Really? Just small talk?”

Edward’s eyes glinted with a mysterious smile. “Of course not. I steered the conversation so I could find out about you.”

“Why go to all that trouble for something so meaningless, Mr. Jennings?” I was genuinely surprised and a bit uneasy.

“It’s been ages since life felt this interesting to me,” Edward said, catching me off guard again.

I couldn’t help but stare at him, surprised.

Edward could tell I wasn’t going to press him further. He smiled faintly and said, “It’s true. I used to pour everything into work and figured life was just supposed to be boring. But then you showed up and turned my world upside down.”

I didn’t buy a word of it.

With a smirk, I asked, “Mr. Jennings, haven’t you been with anyone else since your divorce?”

Edward’s handsome face shifted slightly, but he just smiled and stayed quiet.

“If you have, then don’t go acting like you’re all about true love and romance. Every woman brings something new to the table,” I said. “Sure, you don’t look like a player, but I bet you’re not exactly innocent either.”

“Looks like the same old lines won’t work on you,” Edward chuckled.

“How many hopeless romantics are there in this messy world anyway?” I murmured with a hint of sarcasm. Besides, how many of those people actually get a happy ending?

Unless the stars align—timing, place, and fate all working together—and you meet someone whose soul matches yours, only then can you hope to make it last forever. But honestly, how many people ever find that kind of forever love?

Edward’s stern look flickered with a hint of surprise, then his gaze grew darker. “It’s odd. You’re still so young, but you’ve got these eyes that see right through people—sometimes innocent, sometimes razor-sharp.”

“Oh, so you think you can pull one over on me just because I’m younger?” I shot back with a playful smirk.

Edward shook his head and put his fork down again. It was obvious he was totally out of his league with all the spicy food spread out in front of him.

He reached for his cup of tea again, but that did nothing for the heat. In the end, he just waved the waiter over and asked straight up for a bottle of ice water.

“Guess I can’t fool you,” Edward said, his tone carrying a hint of fondness that caught me off guard.

My heart gave a jolt. I quickly set my fork down, deciding to pay the bill and make my exit.

“Mr. Jennings, are you full?” I asked.

Edward nodded. “Not quite full, but I’ve had enough.”

I smiled and said, “Sorry, I wasn’t sure what you liked. Next time, if I get the chance to treat you, just let me know your preferences.”

Edward just gave a casual look. “Order whatever you like. I’m good with anything.”

“I’ll go settle the bill,” I said, getting up to leave.

Edward waited in the private room while I paid. When I came back, I had a piece of candy the waiter had handed me.

I set the candy on the table, and Edward glanced at it. “Mind if I have it?” he asked.

I nodded. “Sure, go ahead.”

I grabbed my bag and turned to Edward. “Mr. Jennings, thanks for looking out for my brother, but I just want him to do what he’s actually capable of.”

Edward’s brows drew together, a hint of displeasure in his eyes. “Even if I wanted to pay him well, he’d have to be up to the task. Don’t worry, I won’t put him in over his head.”

That put me at ease. “Alright, I’ll get going. Bye.”

Suddenly, Edward reached out and took hold of my wrist. I stiffened instantly, and he let go just as quickly, almost as if he regretted it.

“So, when are you heading to Braylin?” Edward pressed, his tone softer but still insistent.

I shot him a wary look. “I haven’t decided yet. Why are you so interested?”

Edward’s gaze grew darker, lingering on me. “No real reason. Just wanted to know,” he said, his voice low.