Chapter 1035

Aspen smirked. “Not much, just a little over 30 grand.”

Andrew let out a cold chuckle. “You sure know how to burn through my money like it grows on trees. But it’s fine if you ever drain me dry, I’ll just sell you off to cover the losses.”

That wiped the smug look right off Aspen’s face, leaving her gritting her teeth.

Andrew had absolute control over her now. If he did sell her she would have no one to complain to–not even a court that would listen.

She huffed, “The ones draining you dry are Lauren and Francesca. I haven’t even touched a penny…”

Her heart shrank a little, but her mouth still refused to back down.

After finishing the company tour, Andrew barely took a breath before heading to the charity event hosted by the local government. Aspen’s competence clearly was not just for show.

All the way there, she gave Andrew a crash course on the capital’s complicated business networks and behind-the-scenes power plays.

She said, “In a bit, Governor Derek McCormick will show up. Word is, he’s a straight shooter who hates corruption and despises nepotism. So, we need to rely on real performance. If we try too hard to flatter him, it’ll just backfire.”

Andrew nodded while listening, replying casually, “Perfect. I’m good at a lot of things–kissing ass just isn’t one of them.”

Aspen went on, “Even though it’s just a charity event, most of the guests will be elites from the capital’s wealthiest families, plus top people from both business and politics. These people don’t show up without incentive.

“The moment a major figure like the governor appears, they circle like sharks smelling blood. Our goal today is simple–get familiar, make a solid first impression, and set the stage for future partnerships. If any official projects are announced, we observe first–don’t jump in.”

Andrew raised a brow and cut in, “Why not? If there’s a good project, shouldn’t we strike while the iron’s hot?”

Aspen shook her head. “We’re still the new kids in the investment game. The best deals will always go to the old money and the local titans first. We only get to take a slice of what’s left. That’s just how it works, no matter where you go.”

Andrew let out a cold laugh. “Business is war without the blood. Whoever has the sharper bite and deeper pockets wins–letting them eat their fill first? What’s the point of me even showing up? Might as well close shop…”

Seeing the shift in his tone, Aspen, for once, did not fire back. She sighed instead. “A little low-key presence never hurts. This is the capital, after all. Every major player in Gabo Creek Province is clustered right here. We just got here. Sometimes, we have to hold back–whether we like it or not.”

Andrew snorted. “When it comes to your business skills, I’ve got no complaints. But when it comes to long-term strategy, you’re still a little green. Remember–whenever the opportunity’s there, take it.

“Rules only exist for the timid and the slow. When you break the rules and prove your strength, the same people who tried to suppress you will come crawling back, desperate to suck up.”

Aspen opened her mouth, wanting to argue, but could not find a single point to refute. Eventually, she replied, "Fine, your call. You’re the CEO, after all.”

They pulled up in front of the venue–a modern glass high-rise downtown, hosting the event. Every man and woman in sight was dressed to impress, all polished, poised, and clearly among the capital’s elite.

The curb was packed with rows of high-end luxury cars, each more extravagant than the last. The atmosphere alone made it clear that this was not Jayrodale anymore.

Andrew took a breath, sniffed the air, and chuckled. “Even the air smells like money here…”

Aspen nearly facepalmed, wondering what the hell Andrew was doing. They were surrounded by high society, and this was what he said out loud.

Just then, a mocking voice rang out with biting sarcasm, “Well, well. Looks like a gutter pheasant finally stumbled into the elite’s territory. How… unexpected.”

Aspen’s expression instantly darkened. She turned her head–then froze. Her pupils shrank.

It was Quinton, the eldest son of the Wright family, standing there with a cold, mocking smirk. Next to him stood Christina, dressed in an elegant designer gown–her gaze a toxic cocktail of ice, jealousy, and barely concealed disdain fixed directly on Aspen.