Chapter 53 Let Bygones Be Bygones

At that moment, George called. "You rascal! Are you planning on staying single forever? Who gave you the courage to stand up your blind date?" George sounded full of energy.

Zachary was exasperated. "Grandpa, I'm busy."

"Busy? You think I don't know you're wasting your time with those good-for-nothing friends every day?" George's patience had clearly worn thin. "Get back here now, or I'll cut off all your options!"

Zachary had no choice but to return.

Meanwhile, at Orion Corporation, Cecilia headed straight for the top floor. As she approached, sharply dressed yet radiating an enchanting beauty, Mason did a double take. He remembered her former indifference to fashion; she used to wear dark clothing daily, blending in rather than standing out—hardly the image of a prominent young lady. But now, she was not only stunningly beautiful but also exuded an aura of nobility and charm. She seemed a completely different person.

"Ms. Smith, is there something you need?"

"I need to see your boss, Mr. Rainsworth," Cecilia said aloofly.

Mason remained impassive. "Mr. Rainsworth is quite busy today; I'm afraid he may not have time to see you." He had never particularly liked her and naturally wouldn't let her meet Nathaniel. She had been turned away too many times in the past. However, she had already discreetly learned that Nathaniel had no important meetings scheduled for the day.

"Oh, really? Could you please let Mr. Rainsworth know that our collaboration ends here?" Cecilia prepared to leave.

At that, Mason's attitude changed. "Ms. Smith, please wait a moment; I'll check Mr. Rainsworth's availability." He dropped his haughty demeanor and escorted her to the CEO's office. As they passed the secretaries, the women stared in disbelief. They recalled Cecilia's death over four years ago. The elegantly dressed woman before them, exuding an aura far removed from the unadorned Ms. Smith they remembered, was astonishing.

Under their curious gazes, Cecilia entered Nathaniel's office. Nathaniel stood before a large floor-to-ceiling window, his crisp suit accentuating his tall, slender figure.

Mason knocked, then tactfully withdrew, closing the door behind him. Nathaniel turned to face Cecilia. She had transformed into a strikingly professional image, adding an intellectual charm she lacked before. Yet, his mind conjured memories of that night—the way she held her wine, her eyes alluring as silk.

Cecilia felt uneasy under his intense gaze. "Mr. Rainsworth, I'm not sure why Mr. Sanders brought me here. Is there something you need?"

With a hint of amusement, Nathaniel beckoned her closer. "Come here."

Hesitantly, Cecilia approached, stopping a meter away as she detected a faint scent of tobacco. She remembered Nathaniel's dislike of smoking; though work stress occasionally led him to smoke, his fastidiousness ensured his clothes remained free of the smell. Indeed, people changed over time.

Nathaniel leaned in. "You say you've lost your memory? Aren't you curious about what happened between us?"

Cecilia gazed at him. "Let's let bygones be bygones. I only want to focus on the present and the future."

Nathaniel steadily advanced, cornering her against the wall.

Chapter 54 Just Friends