Chapter 74

Veeta, maintaining a neutral expression, told Stewart, "We have some things to attend to, so we'll be leaving. Let's catch up another time."

Stewart shook their hands, saying, "Sure, next time."

Without another glance at Charlene, Veeta and Henley turned to leave.

Given Stewart's status and reputation, several influential figures had arrived to invite him to lunch when it reached noon. Thome was among them. Thome's presence suggested key industry leaders would also be present, likely to discuss future trends in AI. This was a golden opportunity for Stewart to gauge the market's direction, and a successful lunch could foster future collaborations.

Stewart was interested. He glanced at Charlene, seeking her opinion, unsure of her comfort level with Thome's presence.

Charlene firmly stated, "I'm in."

Once outside, she and Thome would treat each other as strangers, but this didn't mean she would avoid him. The group, with Charlene and Stewart, proceeded towards Thome.

Thome's expression remained calm as they approached, though Veeta frowned slightly before regaining her composure. Henley and Laverne also joined them; their expressions soured upon seeing Charlene.

Someone who hadn't yet greeted Stewart seized the opportunity as they approached. It was Thome's turn to shake Stewart's hand. "Nice to meet you," he said.

"Nice to meet you," Stewart replied, smiling. "Mr. Henderson, I've heard a lot about you."

"You're too kind, Mr. Ferguson," Thome responded.

After exchanging pleasantries, Thome and Veeta led the way to the parking lot, followed by Charlene and Stewart. Henley and Laverne subtly signaled to Charlene, suggesting she shouldn't join them, but she ignored their hints. Thome and Veeta shared a car, while Charlene got into Stewart's.

Unable to dissuade Charlene, Laverne frowned. "That Charlene is..."

The group of over twenty proceeded to a spacious private dining room and settled around a large round table. Thome naturally sat next to Veeta. Laverne had hoped to sit beside Charlene, concerned she might speak out of turn, but Stewart secured the last seat beside her.

As the group chatted and ordered food, Thome offered the menu to Veeta, inviting her to choose. Taking the menu, Veeta asked, "What would you like?"

"You decide," Thorne replied.

Those nearby smiled at the exchange, commenting, "Mr. Henderson and Ms. Hawkins seem close." Veeta smiled, selecting dishes she knew Thome would enjoy. Henley and Laverne also smiled, relieved.

Stewart, holding a menu, consulted Charlene about her preferences. Overhearing the conversation, he glanced towards Thome and Veeta, then back at Charlene, who seemed indifferent. After a brief discussion, they agreed on several dishes.

Seeing that Charlene wasn't causing trouble, Laverne and Henley relaxed.

Noticing their concern for Charlene, Veeta leaned in and whispered reassuringly, "Don't worry. With Thome here, she won't cause trouble."