Chapter 73

Vesta was on the verge of being drowned in criticism. Henley's favoritism toward her was blatantly obvious. He wanted to avoid Charlene at these gatherings, yet couldn't resist getting to know Stewart. So, when Charlene stepped away to the restroom, Henley approached Stewart with Vesta and Laverne.

Henley introduced himself, "Mr. Ferguson, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Henley Hawkins, Vesta and Charlene's father."

Stewart shook his hand politely. "Ah, Mr. Hawkins, nice to meet you."

Henley glanced at Vesta before continuing, "Charlene can be intense, and there seems to be some miscommunication between her and Vesta. As a father, I've always wished they could get along better, but Charlene isn't making it easy."

Stewart had an epiphany. "I see."

"Yes," Henley sighed, then brightened. "But I'm thrilled Charlene has met someone as promising as you. I heard she's started working at your company, PrimeStar. Please look out for her."

It sounded like genuine concern. Had Henley not chosen this moment, in Charlene's absence, and had he not been so well-informed about Charlene's past and relationship with Thorne, Stewart might have believed him. But Stewart kept it light, laughing.

"You're too kind, Mr. Hawkins. Charlene is a great asset to PrimeStar."

Henley and Vesta dismissed Stewart's words as mere pleasantries. What real help could Charlene offer someone like Stewart? At best, she might handle menial tasks, perhaps similar to a junior programmer. Henley, of course, kept this thought to himself. Vesta remained silent, and Laverne simply offered a casual smile.

Henley continued, "You might be aware of Vesta's interest in CUAP, and she hopes to join PrimeStar." Though Thorne's arrangements meant Vesta didn't need to actively pursue CUAP, connecting with someone as influential as Stewart was advantageous. They might even collaborate closely with PrimeStar.

Stewart turned to Vesta. "Ms. Hawkins, I appreciate your interest. You're exceptional. It would be a blessing to have you at PrimeStar, but Charlene is a friend."

Vesta no longer desired a position at PrimeStar; she didn't want to alienate Stewart, a potential future colleague and friend. Making a friend was preferable to making an enemy. Stewart seemed far more approachable than at their previous encounter. Time would tell if his change in demeanor was genuine. They might still become good friends.

Vesta replied, "I understand and won't press the issue, Mr. Ferguson. There's no need to worry."

Stewart smiled. "Thank you for your understanding, Ms. Hawkins."

From a distance, they appeared to be getting along splendidly. When Charlene returned from the restroom and saw them, she hesitated. Laverne noticed and couldn't help but smile.