When Ivy realized that Naylor knew Halley’s childhood nickname, it was clear the two were well acquainted.

Boyd, after all, was part of the extended Ludwig clan–they were all family.

With no outsiders present, it made sense for everyone to share a table and enjoy the lively atmosphere together.

Unable to refuse such warm hospitality, Thad sat down with his wife and youngest son. He called a waiter over to bring new menus and add a few more dishes. Before the waiter left, Thad told him to put everything on his tab–he was treating tonight.

But before he could finish, Halley piped up, waving a fat envelope of cash. “I’m paying! Auntie gave me a huge red envelope–so I’ll treat you all this time!”

The whole table burst out laughing.

“What’s so funny? Can’t a kid treat everyone to dinner? Auntie gave me money, so I’ll treat her to a meal–and you all can tag along,” Halley declared, sounding surprisingly authoritative for someone his age.

Thad raised a hand toward his son and said to the waiter, “Let the kid pick up the check later.”

The waiter chuckled along with the others. “Of course, Mr. Ludwig.”

So, what was originally supposed to be Jamison’s treat turned into Halley’s big night. But the real guest of honor was Ivy; everyone else was just along for the ride, happy to share a meal in good company.

Halley, thoroughly pleased with himself, scooted in next to Ivy. The little guy was a chatterbox, full of knowledge and curiosity, and the two of them hit it off right away.

It dawned on Ivy–she actually liked kids. Or at least, she liked clever, sweet, and well-mannered kids like Halley.

Over the course of dinner, talk inevitably turned to the Windsor family.

Thad was taken aback when he learned Ivy was planning to acquire the Windsor Group. Once she explained her reasons, though, everything made sense.

The Ludwig family had always worried that Jamison’s marriage to Ivy would leave them vulnerable to the Windsors’ troubles. The Windsor Group was in steep decline, and the family’s reputation for questionable dealings had drawn plenty of criticism. Lately, the Windsors had become a hot potato–no one wanted to get burned.

Especially after their alliance with the Carter family, public opinion was even more unforgiving, with rumors swirling about their shady partnership.

Danny, in particular, had been worried these past few days that his youngest son would let love cloud his judgment and get dragged into the Windsors’ mess. He never imagined that Ivy not only cut ties with the Windsors, but was planning to take over their company.

It was such a bold, decisive move that Thad was both shocked and relieved. As long as Ivy wasn’t siding with the Windsors, Jamison wouldn’t be caught in their downfall.

As their conversation continued, Thad realized Ivy was far from just a pretty face. She understood corporate management, market trends, and mergers and acquisitions inside and out. Whenever Naylor offered suggestions, Ivy grasped the key points immediately.

Thad finally understood why his brother had fallen for this woman.

Just like his son said–Uncle Jamison really knows how to pick them.

By the end of the meal, Ivy had gained a wealth of insights. Everyone at the table was a heavyweight, and their advice was sharp and to the point.

Jamison noticed her bright expression and leaned in. “Still have any doubts?”

“None at all. This dinner was worth every minute–thank you.” She looked at him, gratitude shining in her eyes.

There’s nothing luckier in life than finding someone who truly understands and supports you.

Jamison not only stood by her side, but used his own connections to help her rise–something few men could genuinely do.

And in the end, Halley really did pay for the meal.

Afterwards, Halley begged to go home with his aunt and uncle. “It’s been ages since I played at your place! I miss Blackie and Snowy, too. Can I come, please?”

Blackie and Snowy were Jamison’s two cats–mischievous and utterly adorable.