Chapter 76

Dinner had been underway for some time, yet Thorne and Stewart had exchanged only cursory glances. Thorne, casually dabbing his lips with a napkin, turned to Stewart with a smile. "I've been considering it," he said. "What do you think, Mr. Ferguson?"

Stewart, ever alert to opportunity, replied, "To earn Mr. Henderson's esteem is a privilege for PrimeStar."

Vesta welcomed the prospect of a Thorne-Stewart partnership. A closer relationship between the two men would increase her opportunities to influence Stewart. With this in mind, she directed a cold glance at Charlene.

Charlene was engaged in conversation with Professor Hancock, seemingly unfocused despite keeping a peripheral eye on the others. She had no objection to Stewart's potential collaboration with Thorne; it was a lucrative opportunity to embrace.

As dinner concluded, those interested in further discussion moved to the couches for less formal conversation. Thorne's dinner comment about collaboration with PrimeStar remained tentative, its future uncertain to Charlene. However, Mr. Dale, also present, was enthusiastic about the partnership and had already pulled Stewart and his management team aside for a discussion. Charlene followed. Technical discussions were her strength, but negotiations were Stewart's domain.

She sat quietly until noticing Stewart's empty glass. "Let me get you a refill," she offered.

Stewart smiled his thanks.

Observing Charlene perform what appeared to be secretarial duties only strengthened Vesta and Laverne's suspicion that Charlene sought to become Stewart's assistant.

As Charlene returned with the drink, she bumped into someone near Thorne, losing her balance and falling into his arms. The room fell silent. While it appeared accidental, its convenience was not lost on the observers.

Charlene was undeniably attractive—graceful, delicate, with smooth, soft skin. Though Vesta was stunning, Charlene possessed a certain allure. Such a woman's embrace would stir most men, but Thorne was different. With an icy demeanor, he steadied her by the shoulders, then quickly disengaged, showing no sign of being captivated.

Regaining her composure, Charlene softly apologized and walked away.

Vesta and Laverne believed Charlene's actions were deliberate.

"See? We can't trust her!" Laverne snorted.

"But her efforts are in vain," Vesta replied. Thorne's indifference reassured them.

"Absolutely," Laverne chuckled. "Thorne's reaction must be comforting for you."

Vesta smiled sweetly, lowering her gaze.

Henley, however, frowned, reconsidering his assessment of Charlene. Despite her quiet nature, she clearly possessed hidden resources.