Chapter 26
The Ritz-Carlton stood as a luxurious six-star resort between the blue sea and sky.
Its gilded dome shimmered under the setting sun.
The nation's most renowned seafood feast was held here.
The Harper Group's PR department had booked the finest private dining room tonight.
Manager Thomas Carter and Assistant Manager Hannah Green led the team personally.
They were to finalize an important collaboration with the Hudson Group.
No one expected Zachary Hudson, the heir of the Hudson Group, to grace them with his presence.
His tall frame was accentuated by a custom silver-gray suit.
The floral shirt beneath was casually unbuttoned, revealing well-defined pectorals.
His mischievous phoenix eyes swept lazily across the room.
His gaze finally settled on the figure huddled in the corner, head bowed.
Thomas hurried forward. "Mr. Hudson, your presence is an honor."
A playful smile touched Zachary's lips.
Of course he had come personally.
He intended to discover who that audacious woman truly was.
The man at the head of the table lazily crossed his long legs.
Only then did the others dare to take their seats.
Vivian Bennett shrank into the most remote corner.
Her icy fingers clutched her skirt.
She prayed Zachary had already forgotten that night's incident.
An array of exquisite seafood dishes was presented.
A giant lobster exuded a tantalizing aroma.
But Vivian tasted nothing.
She was merely a newcomer in the PR department.
Her task tonight was to maintain a pleasant smile.
The negotiations were best left to the managers.
She kept her head down.
Minimizing her presence.
Zachary held court, laughing and chatting surrounded by everyone.
He seemed completely unaware of her.
Vivian began to relax.
Hannah's voice suddenly cut through the air.
"Vivian Bennett, aren't you going to propose a toast to Mr. Hudson?"
All eyes instantly focused on her.
Vivian's fingers trembled violently.
Her wine glass nearly slipped.
She stiffly raised her glass.
Looking up, she met Zachary's amused, knowing eyes.
He remembered her.