Chapter 1173
Natalie sighed. "Alright then."
The unpredictability of life was overwhelming. So much had happened in the past few years. Looking back, college seemed a simpler time, filled with fewer worries and a carefree feeling. After graduation, the realities of adulthood—unavoidable challenges and limited control—became starkly apparent. Fortunately, she'd managed to sever all romantic attachments, sparing herself further heartache.
"Maybe I'll be back soon," Skylar said with a smile. "I have a feeling I'll still be here in Jipsburg City. After all, you're here, and so is my family."
She felt a pang of reluctance seeing Natalie's downcast expression. Natalie's eyes brightened. "Then I'll wait for you."
Skylar seemed to have accepted letting go of Joe. Elliott, still without a girlfriend, continued to talk about love at first sight, clearly referring to Skylar. If the opportunity arose, Natalie would definitely play matchmaker.
Nearby, a conversation caught their attention. "Have you heard? Hawking Technologies' CEO is in Jipsburg today. Our project lead's trying to meet him," someone said.
"That guy's a legend! He built that tech empire from nothing in three years. He's my idol," another chimed in. "If I get the chance, I have to meet him."
"There's a charity gala in a few days. He might be there, and I might get to go with our chairman."
"If you meet him, find out if he actually has superpowers!" someone joked.
"I heard our chairman wants to introduce his daughter, but he also has a fiancée. He's so mysterious—no photos online. They say he's around thirty—really impressive."
The fondue restaurant's atmosphere amplified the already boisterous conversation of several evidently well-lubricated patrons. Skylar, having read about Hawking Technologies that morning, found herself strangely captivated by their discussion. Noticing Skylar's distraction, Natalie held back from interrupting.
"Were you talking about the Hughes family?" Skylar asked, refocusing.
Natalie nodded. "Yeah, it's complicated. My parents have told me about their recent troubles. Jeremy's cousins, Walter and Maurice Hughes, were accused of molesting a young girl. They deny it, claiming amnesia."
"But there's video evidence," Natalie continued. "Irrefutable. One of Jeremy's uncles, Grover Hughes, has been acting erratically, lashing out uncontrollably. It's cost the family dearly."
"It's bizarre," Natalie mused. "Still, being wealthy has its perks; you can afford to pay more."
"Okay, Jeremy has already transferred me five million dollars," Skylar confirmed.
Natalie gave a thumbs-up. "That's my girl, Skye. You really know how to make money."
They left some fondue behind. Conscious of food waste, Natalie packed the leftovers to refrigerate, planning to buy more ingredients for another fondue night at home.
As they exited the restaurant, a crowd surged towards the mall across the street.
"What's going on? A promotional event?" Natalie wondered.
Skylar's curiosity was piqued as well. "Let's check it out."
Waiting at a traffic light, an MPV passed. Through the partially lowered rear window, Skylar glimpsed a man's profile for a fleeting second before he vanished from sight. She felt a sudden tension in her body.