Chapter 135

Timothy knew Felix had brought him to the party to negotiate with other companies. He lacked the energy to worry about Ashley and simply followed Felix. When Felix spotted his target, his joyful expression froze. The blonde, blue-eyed foreigner was speaking amiably with Trevon. The onlookers hesitated to approach, sensing a deal worth over one hundred thousand dollars was being discussed. No wonder Trevon was present—a significant real estate project was at stake.

Felix gritted his teeth, realizing he'd been outmaneuvered.

"Dad, what should we do?" Timothy asked, nervously observing Trevon's conversation with Felix's target.

Felix rolled his eyes, grabbed two glasses of champagne, and handed one to Timothy. "Come with me."

"Okay."

Felix plastered on a smile and approached, feigning surprise. "Charles, what a coincidence! It's been a long time," he said.

Charles opened his arms. "Oh, Mr. Clark, it's been ages. However, I'm speaking with Trevon about something crucial right now."

Felix's grip tightened on his champagne glass. What were Trevon and Charles discussing? Why was Charles so reluctant to leave?

Trevon's success was unfathomable. At a young age, he'd become CEO of Insight Group and head of the Brady family, propelling the company to new heights. Felix, trailing just behind, wondered if Trevon had secured Charles's support, perhaps simply accelerating an already-contemplated collaboration. He considered countless possibilities. This cooperation was worth over one hundred million dollars—a prize even the chairman of Clark Group coveted. He couldn't simply concede.

Abandoning pretense, Felix became serious. "Charles, I also have something important to discuss. Perhaps you could speak with Mr. Brady first, and I'll wait."

Charles hesitated, glancing at Trevon, who nodded subtly in agreement. "Very well. Please wait a moment."

Charles and Trevon conferred in a quiet corner. Felix, though curious, maintained his composure. After their conversation, Trevon departed, and Charles returned. "Mr. Clark, what is it?"

Felix replied, "Charles, allow me to introduce my son, Timothy. He recently graduated from Haveverson University with a master's in finance and has joined Clark Group."

Felix felt a surge of pride. A Haveverson master's degree spoke volumes of Timothy's abilities.

Timothy politely greeted Charles, who responded warmly, praising Timothy's accomplishments. Felix continued, explaining his desire to mentor younger talent within Clark Group.

Felix didn't mince words. Charles, experienced in business, surely suspected his intentions.

Charles pursed his lips. "Mr. Clark, you've come for the real estate project. I'm cooperating with Insight Group."

"Has Mr. Brady finalized the details? Why so quickly? Consider our proposal."

"No, thank you, Mr. Clark. I value Mr. Brady's leadership. No one can replace him."

Felix's expression soured. "Is it truly impossible to work with us?"

"We've known each other for years, but business is business, and friendship is friendship. Excuse me." Charles turned and left. Timothy tried to speak but was stopped by Felix.

Watching Felix's furious face, Timothy clenched his fists. "Dad, I will surpass Trevon! I will never forget this humiliation!" He recognized the gap between himself and Trevon but believed he could bridge it through his own efforts and given time.

Felix turned, looked at Timothy seriously, and patted his shoulder. "I'm glad you feel that way. Trevon is a formidable opponent, but you are my son. You will be second to none!"

"By the way, where is Ashley? Wasn't she your companion tonight?"

Timothy coughed awkwardly. "She's fine, Dad. I'll find her."

"Timothy!" Ashley's voice drifted from nearby. Relieved, Timothy approached her. "Ashley, are you alright?"

"Well, Timothy, after I ran off, I realized I'd promised to be your companion. I shouldn't have left because of my disappointment. I'm so sorry."

Ashley smiled, softening Timothy's distress. "Ashley, I'm sorry. I made you upset."

The music began, signaling the start of the ball.

Felix chuckled. "Forget your troubles and dance."

Timothy bowed slightly. "Ashley, may I have this dance?"

"Certainly. It's my pleasure, Timothy."

They danced, attracting admiring glances. Meanwhile, Selina, Trevon's wife, sat alone, nursing a drink and maintaining a strained smile, fulfilling her social obligations. "Honey, why are you hiding here alone?"