Chapter 81

Seeing Charlene and Stewart appeared to surprise them both. After greeting them, Quincy walked toward Thorne and Vesta. Having already seen them, and considering their upcoming collaboration, Charlene and Stewart exchanged a look before following.

Quincy, acquainted with Vesta, greeted her warmly: “Ms. Hawkins.”

Vesta replied, “Hello,” her tone cool. Quincy didn't seem to mind; Vesta was Thorne's darling, the likely future Mrs. Henderson. Maintaining distance from them was understandable.

Quincy turned to Charlene and Stewart, explaining to Thorne, “I was at PrimeStar this morning discussing a partnership. Thought we’d grab some lunch now that it’s noon.”

Thorne nodded, shaking his hand. “Hard work pays off.”

“It’s what I do,” Quincy replied.

Thorne’s gaze shifted to Charlene and Stewart, greeting Stewart: “Mr. Ferguson.” He didn't address Charlene.

Stewart responded, then suggested, “Since we’re all here, why not join us?”

Thorne declined. “I’ve got my own plans already, and it’s not really a group thing. I’ll catch up with you another time.”

Personal plans? A date with Vesta? Did he want no interruptions?

Stewart inwardly scoffed, but outwardly smiled. “Mr. Henderson, you’re too kind.”

Vesta, interested in getting to know Stewart better, naturally prioritized Thorne. Seeing Thorne so invested in their date filled her with joy; she preferred their private time undisturbed. Hearing Thorne’s words, she didn't press further and left with him.

Once they were out of earshot, Stewart inquired, “Quincy, you know Ms. Hawkins?”

“Just met a few times,” Quincy revealed. “Mr. Henderson is attentive to Ms. Hawkins. He’s brought her to the company several times already.”

So that was it.

Though married to Thorne for years and somewhat aware of the companies he founded, Charlene had never visited them—Thorne had forbidden it. Yet, what he forbade her, he freely allowed Vesta.

Seizing a moment when Quincy was distracted, Stewart whispered to Charlene, “After the drama at the charity dinner and last week’s Future Tech Expo, the Hawkins family has been building quite a network in Starfall. I heard they’ve secured several projects lately.”

Once those projects were completed, the Hawkins family would be firmly established in Starfall—a success many business people dreamed of. They had managed it in just a few days with Thorne’s help, sparking considerable envy.

Hearing this, Charlene lowered her gaze and hummed in acknowledgment.