Dead at Heart novel

Chapter 32 " It's a pleasure to meet you , Ms. Walker , " the people around Ariel greeted her politely . But no one bothered to bring up anything remotely related to her expertise . After the formal greetings , they turned their attention back to Chad , diving into discussions about industry trends and technological reforms . In an industry dominated by men , it was no surprise that women were often sidelined . Prejudice always came first . Ariel had anticipated this kind of treatment and remained composed . She quietly listened to their conversation .

XAM Chad had someone important he wanted to introduce her to . " See the man in the gray suit over there ? He's a high- ranking government official , and his insight into upcoming policy changes will be crucial . He's someone you definitely want to leave a good impression on tonight . " Ariel was surprised to hear someone at that level was here . She now understood just how high - profile this banquet was . Chad guided her toward the man . When they approached , the man saw Chad and greeted him with a warm smile . " Mr. Hockney , it's been a while .

" Before Chad could introduce Ariel , a stir near the entrance caught their attention . Ariel turned around and saw Nancy walking in , arm - in - arm with Jayson . Her elegance was evident as she greeted those nearby . When Jayson arrived , the other big names in the room immediately perked up and hurried over to greet him . Ariel couldn't help but focus on their outfits . Nancy wore a green dress that was nearly the same shade as Ariel's . Her neckline was encrusted with diamonds in varying sizes , which caught the light with every movement .

Meanwhile , Jayson wore a suit with a pocket square that matched Nancy's dress . What a subtle display of affection . The suit that matched her dress whing he had never touched even once . Ariel's lips curled into a sardonic smile , and her vision turned blurry . She wasn't sure whether to laugh at herself for having spent three years as a joke or at how insignificant she felt now . Chad glanced at Ariel . She didn't show any outward emotion , yet he couldn't shake the uncomfortable feeling in his gut . Before long , Jayson and Nancy started making their way over .

Chad frowned at once as he realized what they were trying to do . When Jayson walked over , he glanced at Ariel and noticed the dress she was wearing . He paused in his steps for a moment . Ariel noticed his glance . 1/3 With their matching colors , she couldn't help but feel like the odd one out , as if she were intruding on their perfect little world . Nancy spared Ariel a brief glance as well , then quickly turned her attention back to Chad and the important official . Jayson greeted Chad and the man , " Mr. Pearce , Mr. Hockney . " " Who's this beside you , Mr. Larkin ?

" Jonathan Pearce asked . Jayson nodded slightly . " This is Nancy Stanton . She specializes in aerospace research and just completed her PhD abroad . She's an exceptional talent . " a second He praised Nancy but didn't spare glance at Ariel , nor did he intend to greet her . He acted as if they were complete strangers . It was clear he was distancing himself from her . Jonathan was surprised . " She's so young , though ! " Nancy smiled graciously . " You flatter me , Mr. Pearce . " Jonathan seemed intrigued . " Why don't we sit down later and discuss your ideas ? I'd love to hear more .

' With Jayson's endorsement , no one would dare underestimate Nancy . As far as Jonathan was concerned , if Jayson admired her , she must be remarkable . In a good mood , Jonathan turned to Chad . " Let's chat later . ! Chad nodded politely , but once Jonathan walked off , his face tightened . What was Jayson trying to pull ? How could he swoop in out of nowhere ? He was just about to introduce Ariel . This was a crucial opportunity for her comeback . But Jayson showed up with Nancy , making a grand entrance and stealing the spotlight ! " Mr. Hockney , you know how rare top talent is .

My proposal from last time still stands . You should consider it . Nancy won't disappoint you , " Jayson said confidently . Nancy glanced at the quiet Ariel before saying , " Mr. Hockney , I'll bring you the greatest benefit . " Chad was taken aback by how much Jayson seemed to favor Nancy . And he didn't even try to hide it from Ariel . It suddenly hit him how difficult Ariel's situation must be . But they were all professionals here , so Chad responded with the usual phrase , " Of course . Ms. Stanton is so impressive . I'll give it some serious thought .

" This industry was all about appearances . In other words , people paid lip service without ever intending to take action . Jayson must've picked up on Chad's words . He threw a glance at Ariel , almost as if saying that she was truly something to make Chad listen to her . Ariel frowned at Jayson , but he had already turned away and led Nancy as they walked off . Soon , a group of people 2/3 gathered around them . They were all warm and eager , unlike the cold indifference they had shown toward Ariel . Chad's plan was disrupted .

With Jayson around , Nancy was the center of attention tonight , the one everyone wanted to befriend . No matter how talented Ariel was , no one was willing to pass up the opportunity to connect with Jayson just to get to know her . -9