Chapter 239

Outside the Sapphire Hotel, Leanna escorted Shelia inside. “Come, have a seat,” she said, finding a spot near Juan.

Debra, hearing Leanna, told Juan, “I’m going to the restroom. I’ll be back soon.” “Okay,” Juan replied, his eyes following her as she left.

Leanna leaned in, her voice reassuring. “Today’s gathering must have been overwhelming for you, right? You’re just an intern. It’s tough for you to join us for drinks.” Despite her comforting tone, she keenly observed Shelia’s expression.

Ever since entering the restaurant, Shelia’s eyes had scanned the hall, searching for Juan. It didn’t take long to spot him, seated amidst a group of business executives in the center of the room. A glint appeared in Shelia’s eyes.

These days, no matter what she did, she couldn’t reach Juan. Even Joe had stopped answering her calls. If Leanna hadn’t mentioned the Sapphire Hotel often hosted big shots, she wouldn’t have come.

“I’m going to the bathroom. You go ahead and check the menu,” Leanna said, excusing herself. “Okay,” Shelia replied, eagerly awaiting Leanna’s departure.

As soon as Leanna was gone, an executive at a nearby table noticed Shelia. “Isn’t that Miss Miles?” he asked, drawing everyone’s attention to her.

Shelia was dressed in the evening gown Juan had given her, looking mature and elegant. She had accompanied him to various events, so these executives were familiar with her. Every time Juan brought her, he introduced her to important people. Shelia had even conversed with each of them at the table.

One of the bosses remarked, “Mr. Nichols, you’re quite lucky.” Everyone assumed Shelia had been invited by Juan.

Juan frowned, his gaze turning cold. Shelia, seizing the opportunity, walked over and said, “Didn’t expect to meet everyone here. Let me toast to you.” She reached for a glass, about to pour wine, when Juan coldly interjected, “Put the glass down.”

Shelia stiffened, and the laughter ceased. She forced a smile. “Juan, it’s just a drink.”

“If you want to drink, buy your own,” Juan said icily, ignoring her. Shelia bit her lip, her voice softening. “Are you still mad at me?” She tugged on his sleeve, but his frown deepened.

No one knew what had transpired between them, so no one dared interrupt. But it seemed clear that Shelia, the outsider, had been dismissed by Juan.

A boss interjected, “Well, Mrs. Nichols is here today too. Miss Miles, it’s not convenient for you to be here. How about we have a drink another day?” The meaning was clear: they wanted Shelia to leave. Without Juan’s backing, she didn’t deserve their respect.