Ch. 1831..1840

Chapter 1831

Even without Eric, there were ways for Grant to get to know Mr. Jensen.

The two companies competed for this project, and it was still not known who would be the winner.

They separated business and personal affairs clearly.

Eric was very determined to win this project. When he entered the door, some of the people who were thinking about the project had already surrendered.

However, Grant would not.

Stanton Corporation would not lose to Ferguson Corporation in terms of strength and reputation.

Grant stood up, glanced at Clayton, nodded, and then followed Eric to leave.

He only said this to ease the tension between Clayton and Eric.

Eric had deep roots in Atlanta, and the forces supporting him were complex.

If they really fought, Grant was worried that Clayton would be at a disadvantage.

After all, Grant needed to protect his own brother-in- law.

Clayton looked at Eric’s departing back, and his face sank slightly.

At this moment, his phone lit up. Nicole replied to his earlier message.

[I went to do some shopping at the mall. I’m going to Yvette’s place, so come and pick me up when you’re done later!]

Clayton’s face looked a lot better. The corners of his lips curved up slightly.

He recalled what Eric said just now. They had met.

Clayton was a little careless. He did not expect that Eric would be so shameless as to go directly to Nicole.

He wanted to ask Nicole if she had seen Eric, but how could he ask her about it?

Clayton felt a little apprehensive. Did Nicole not remember Eric?

Then if Clayton asked her about it, she would definitely pursue it further. How should he reply then?

For the first time, Clayton felt that a question could be so tricky.

After hesitating for a while, Clayton let it slide. It was not worth mentioning after all.

If Nicole remembered Eric but not himself, Clayton would really go crazy with jealousy.

Clayton did not even notice the people in front of him who were trying to talk to him.

Someone called out “Mr. Sloan” several times before Clayton finally reacted. He then smiled apologetically.

The other party smiled meaningfully.

“Mr. Sloan, you were so deep in thought. Is it because you’re thinking about some big money-making project?”

Clayton looked at the person for a while before he recognized this man to be Samuel Lindstrom from Baltic City.

Clayton only recognized Samuel because Samuel’s wife, Lumi Makinen, had been in frequent contact with Nicole during this period of time. Sometimes when they were on a video call, Nicole would ask Clayton to come over and say hello. Occasionally, he would also see Samuel beside Lumi.

In Baltic City, the strength of the Lindstrom family could not be underestimated.

Clayton just heard Grant saying that the Lindstroms were interested in that military project, so it was not difficult to guess the reason why Samuel was here.

He smiled warmly and stroked his brow, looking slightly apologetic. “I was thinking about something else. I’m sorry you had to see that, Mr. Lindstrom.”

Samuel Lindstrom had very devilish features and a pair of charming eyes that could hook someone‘s soul.

Back then, he was also the subject of scandals, but those scandals disappeared after he got married.

He was very capable and took control of the Lindstrom family at a young age. He was also one of the top figures in Baltic City.

Clayton was only familiar with Samuel because of Nicole.

Samuel smiled, gently clinked the glass in his hand with Clayton’s, then took a sip of wine.

“Everyone else is fighting for the project, but you’re here zoning out all alone. You look like you’re winning, s o I came over to ask for advice. You won‘t blame me for being presumptuous, right?”

Clayton raised his eyebrows. “Why would I?” Samuel sat on the side and glanced at Clayton.

“My wife, Lumi Makinen, previously followed you to invest in a project. Although it’s not much money, she’s very passionate about it. But I think that the prospect o I this project is just average. I really can’t figure out why you’re so optimistic about shared education.”

Samuel looked like he was modestly asking for advice, but Clayton could feel a slightly oppressive vibe from him.

Chapter 1832

Clayton bowed his head and smiled. He did not hide anything and said bluntly, “Not every project that I invest in will be successful. It’s just luck. That project won’t make a big profit. My wife just told your wife about it after she heard me talking about this project back then. In fact, I’ve already mentioned the risks. We have to be cautious in investment and we shouldn’t blindly follow hearsay.”

When Samuel Lindstrom saw Clayton like this, the irritation he felt in his heart disappeared.

Lumi Makinen, that brainless woman, had always regarded Clayton as a legend in the investment world, so much so that she almost hung up Clayton’s portrait a t home.

If Samuel did not stop Lumi, that woman would have wanted to change her phone’s lock screen to a picture of Clayton.

This showed how obsessed Lumi was.

However, Lumi was not obsessed with Clayton as a man but as the legend that was undefeated in the investment world.

Due to this, the woman who had repeatedly failed in investment simply worshiped Clayton.

Lumi even took $200 million at once and invested in the project introduced by Clayton.

Although Samuel was not short of that money, he had

clearly analyzed the prospect of that project to Lumi. He told her that it was not too profitable, but she did not believe him and even questioned his ability over and over again. How could he not be angry?

Thus, Samuel came over to clarify it with Clayton.

He did not expect that this situation was a misunderstanding.

Clayton smiled. “How about this? I can explain it to your wife, or my wife can explain it to her too. It might not be too late to withdraw your investment.”

Clayton did not dispute, nor was he arrogant. He was very understanding.

Samuel sighed with relief. His collar was slightly open, and he leaned back in a relaxed manner.

“No need. It’s good to let her hit the wall. Otherwise...” Otherwise, she would worship Clayton as a god.

Samuel did not say the last sentence. He only had his own thoughts. ‘She didn’t believe me, right? Then I’ll just let her lose out! When she fails at Clayton’s hands, she’ll know who’s more credible then! Hmph!’

Clayton smiled and did not insist.

After all, even though that project would not make a big profit, it was unlikely that it would lose money.

It was just not that profitable.

“Mr. Lindstrom, why didn’t you go and socialize? Aren’t you very interested in that project?”

Samuel raised his eyebrows. “Oh, you can tell that I’m interested in that big project?” “It’s not just you.”

Samuel smiled casually.

“That’s true. Initially, I had a chance to win, but now, I can only rely on luck. Once I saw Eric here, I really lost my confidence.”

In terms of strength, they could be considered evenly matched.

However, Eric was from the army and had some say there. Ordinary people did not have this advantage.

Thus, Samuel basically gave up on the thought.

Clayton silently curled his lips. Darkness flashed across his eyes.

Was Eric so terrifying?

When Samuel saw Clayton’s expressionless face, he thought, ‘Was what Lumi said about the relationship between Eric and Clayton true? If they did not get along, why isn’t anything happening now? This time, even if I can‘t get that mysterious big project, I still can’t go back empty-handed! Unfortunately, there’s no gossip like I’ve imagined.‘

The banquet was very lively with no one leaving before it was over.

It was almost evening by the time the banquet ended.

Clayton looked at his phone. Nicole did not message him, so she should still be at Yvette’s place.

He was still sitting in his seat chatting with others. He did not show his interest in these projects and remained indifferent.

Chapter 1833

Near the end, Grant and Eric had said all that they should, and they had already stated all their conditions and advantages respectively.

The rest depends on how they would compete in private.

This banquet was just the beginning.

They left one after another, and Clayton stayed till the end.

Some people came over to say goodbye, and Clayton smiled in response.

“Mr. Sloan, it's been a long time since I’ve seen Ms. Stanton. Please send her my regards.”

Clayton nodded and spoke with a smile.

“I’ll be sure to tell her. Nicole has always liked collaborating with you. Let’s play golf some time.”

“Sure!”

Everyone talked and laughed as they left one after another.

Clayton waited until Mr. Jensen was about to leave before he straightened his clothes and followed him.

When Mr. Jensen was about to get into the car, Clayton called out to him.

“Mr. Jensen...”

After all, Mr. Jensen was from the army. Although he was old, he was fit and did not show any signs of middle-aged weight gain.

Hank Jensen turned around and narrowed his eyes.

He recognized this person as the recently influential figure in Atlanta, Clayton Sloan. His investment projects were not small, and his family background was a mystery. He was also very low-key.

The time when Clayton was the most high-profile was during his wedding with the heiress of Stanton Corporation.

However, at that time, not many people could attend the wedding because only close friends and family were invited.

Those who were unaware thought that Clayton relied on the Stanton family in order to stand firm in the country.

Those who were aware knew that Clayton had brought a never-before-seen domestic project and dominated the Medianian market. He even opened up the field of European artificial intelligence and was a legendary figure.

However, his field did not have many overlapping areas with the political world, so they had very little interaction.

In particular, Clayton did not have deep roots in the country. Hank Jensen only started to pay attention to Clayton during this period of time when Clayton settled down in the country.

But...

Hank Jensen raised his eyes and smiled. He looked a little intoxicated.

“Mr. Sloan, it’s getting late. If you still have something to discuss, why don’t we talk about it next time?”

Clayton steadily walked forward. His eyes were warm and modest. A dim light flashed in his eyes, and he had a polite smile. He did not utter a word of nonsense.

“Mr. Jensen, I’m afraid that it’ll delay progress if I leave this to next time. I just want to borrow a few minutes of your time. If you think it’s useful, please consider it. If not, just forget I said anything.”

Once Clayton said this, Hank Jensen’s face remained unchanged. He then looked at the driver with a smile.

The driver nodded, left the car, and walked to the far corner to wait.

He knew the rules.

Hank Jensen reached out and pointed to the back seat of the car.

“If you don’t mind...”

Hank guessed that Clayton had something important to say. Otherwise, Clayton would not have waited till now.

Either way, Hank had to choose an environment where he felt more secure.

Clayton nodded slightly, and the two men got into the car. Half of his face was immersed in the shadows.

Hank Jensen had a few speculations.

“Mr. Sloan, are you also interested in that military project?”

Hank went straight to the point and put Clayton on the spot.

There were already quite a few people who expressed interest in that project tonight.

For those who were not qualified, Hank joked about it and brushed it off.

Only Eric and Grant got to discuss the project with Hank in depth. He would then choose the one he liked the most among these two companies.

Even Samuel Lindstrom, who came from Baltic City, was not qualified.

The purpose of tonight’s banquet was achieved. The rest would depend on who. among Ferguson Corporation and Stanton Corporation, was more sincere.

Chapter 1834

In fact, both Ferguson Corporation and Stanton Corporation met all of Hank Jensen’s expectations.

Eric used to be in the army, so he had an advantage in this area. It also goes without saying that Ferguson Corporation is very powerful.

However, Stanton Corporation’s idea was very creative. Some construction aspects were almost the same as their original intention. Moreover, Stanton Corporation had overlapping parts in certain project areas, so they held an advantage in this sense.

Thus, to make a decision, Hank Jensen still needed further studies and judgment. Before that, he would not make any premature promises.

As for Clayton Sloan...

After listening to Hank’s words, Clayton smiled. He did not show too much expectation and enthusiasm.

This made Hank somewhat puzzled as he did not know what Clayton was going to say.

After a few seconds’ pause, Clayton spoke frankly.

“Who wouldn’t be interested? It’s just that I know that I won’t be allowed to touch that project.”

Hank sighed with relief and spoke with a bit of regret. “In fact, your strength is obvious to everyone, Mr. Sloan. If there’s an opportunity, I’ll recommend you, but Since Clayton already had self-awareness, Hank did not mince his words.

“You also know that this military project is extremely demanding in terms of the investor’s background. Mr. Sloan, you just returned from Liberty and have quite the reputation there. Liberty is now eyeing our development in this area, so we must be very careful...”

Hank paused and did not say the rest of his words.

Clayton smiled without showing any disappointment. He just nodded understandingly.

“I’m certainly aware of your concerns. This isn’t something that can just be solved with money, so I won’t rashly intervene in this project. Since you have your own considerations, I won’t force it on you.”

Hank Jensen’s expression eased a little. He raised an eyebrow. “Then what did you want to say? Is it related to Stanton Corporation? Although Stanton Corporation is still competing for this project, the higher-ups will have to do a comprehensive study before making a decision.”

He knew about the relationship between Clayton and Stanton Corporation. Clayton was married to the heiress of Stanton Corporation and was Grant’s brother-in-law.

These two families were said to be even more powerful after their union.

It would make sense for Clayton to speak for Stanton Corporation.

Thus, Hank thought for a moment that Clayton just wanted to advocate for Stanton Corporation.

The light inside the car was dim, so they could not see each other’s expressions.

However, Clayton let out a low chuckle, and his voice was steady as he said, “Not really.”

“Not really?”

Hank was startled.

Clayton loosened his collar before speaking.

“I have two military test bases in South Africa. They‘re not large scale, but they have their own technology with world-class weapons and equipment. Most importantly, they have a core technology that you will need in the later stages of your military project. What I wanted to discuss with you isn’t this project, but the core technology behind the project. If you cooperate with me, you can save at least ten years of time on this project and can surpass the world. This project can also become the top priority of the government.”

For a moment, the car fell silent. Hank Jensen was secretly shocked, so much so that he could not even say anything.

His relaxed and speculative mood earlier instantly turned serious and amazed.

Hank was smiling brightly.

He was first shocked, but after he came to his senses, the excitement in his heart gradually ignited and spread like fire.

Finally, his eyes were glowing as he said, “Mr. Sloan, you’re not joking, right?”

If what Clayton said was true, then this project would have already been successful even without any achievements at the moment. It might also become the most important strategic project in the country.

Chapter 1835

Clayton smiled and raised his hand to look at the time. “I’ll send the relevant information to your email later.

You can decide after reading it.”

Hank Jensen did not know what to say for a moment. He just felt exhilarated. “If there‘s no problem with your technology, we’ll save billions of dollars, and time

won‘t be an issue!”

After that, Hank suddenly calmed down and froze for a moment.

“Is that project your own? Or do you have a Libertian on board?”

Hank could not help but worry about this. If Clayton lied to him, the country’s interests would be at stake, and he would lose his office.

Clayton spoke with a smile on his face.

“I won‘t partner with someone else in such a sensitive investment. Otherwise, it might get forcefully confiscated. That’s also why I chose South Africa. If you want, you can select two of your people to go over and take a look after reading the information. I also hope our cooperation will withstand the test.”

The smile on Hank’s face could no longer be concealed. He reached out to pat Clayton’s shoulder.

“I really didn’t expect this, Mr. Sloan! I thought that you were just an investor, but I didn’t expect you to invest in such a wide range of projects! How surprising!” Clayton’s lips were curled up into a smile.

“It was just a whim. I didn’t expect it to come in handy one day. Besides, I’ll settle down in Mediania in the future. My wife and daughter aren‘t used to living abroad, so we can always communicate further if you have any concerns.”

The last sentence Clayton said was to reassure Hank.

“Oh? Ms. Stanton gave birth to a baby girl? We didn’t get the news yet. Congratulations!”

Clayton’s smile deepened. He nodded courteously.

“Thank you. My wife is still recuperating and doesn’t want to be too tired, so we didn’t spread the news yet. We’ll inform everyone when we have the chance.”

Hank nodded in satisfaction. “I’ll definitely visit you for a drink at that time!”

“You’re most welcome!”

Clayton straightened his cuffs and said, “It’s getting late. Mr. Jensen, you should go back and rest. I won’t disturb you further. We can talk again next time!”

Hank was completely sober at this time. He was excited and did not want to let Clayton go.

However, since he already said those words earlier, he could not be too enthusiastic, lest he would be in a passive situation.

He could only look at Clayton with regret. After some thought, he said, “Sure. We’ll talk again after I read the email.”

Clayton smiled and nodded, then pushed the car door open to get off.

Hank also followed Clayton out of the car and sent him off.

Such a situation was quite rare. “Wait, Mr. Sloan...”

Hank suddenly realized something.

A certain logic flashed in his mind. Clayton turned around.

Hank said, "You just want to cooperate? You don’t have any other additional conditions?”

Clayton replied, “Of course not. Mr. Jensen, did you think that I would use this as a condition for you to award this project to Stanton Corporation?”

Hank narrowed his eyes.

After all, Hank was old and wise, so he could not help but overthink things.

Was that not what Clayton was worried about?

If that was the case, it would take a lot of effort for the person who would ultimately make the decision.

“Don’t you want Stanton Corporation to get this project?”

Hank asked back.

Clayton lowered his eyes and pondered for a few seconds before speaking.

“My wife is a shareholder of Stanton Corporation. Out of emotion and my recognition of their ability, I certainly want Stanton Corporation to get the project. But you mentioned earlier that who actually gets the project depends on the final evaluation.”

Chapter 1836

Clayton spoke flawlessly, making it impossible to find any fault with him.

Hank Jensen narrowed his eyes, deep in thought.

Clayton said, “Perhaps I’m too used to being an investor, so now that my role is different, I have to make something clear. After you evaluate the project and want to cooperate with me, I won’t allow anyone else other than the political party’s technical personnel to interfere on my side. That means whether you decide to cooperate with Stanton Corporation or Ferguson Corporation in the future, they won’t have the right to tell me what to do. Perhaps at some point, they will even have to listen to me.“

Clayton finished speaking and quietly observed Hank’s expression.

Hank’s smile faded, and he gradually became serious. What an old fox.

Hank picked up a bargain, yet he still did not allow others to mention their conditions?

Hank completely understood Clayton’s intent.

The best option was to choose Stanton Corporation so as not to create any hostility between the two sides.

However, it would be a different scenario with Ferguson Corporation.

Would Eric Ferguson listen to Clayton Sloan?

Whenever those two met, they just wanted to fight each other.

Just now at the banquet, Hank could already feel the tension between the two men.

The dark undercurrents surged between them. Many noticed it but they did not say anything.

On the surface, Clayton looked like the perfect gentleman, but no one could figure out who he truly was.

Hank felt that he had underestimated Clayton before this.

If Clayton had looked for Hank in the beginning to raise this matter, perhaps Hank would have been completely biased toward Stanton Corporation. Hank would then make it clear to Eric so that Eric would not be humiliated.

If Ferguson Corporation failed to get the project this time, it would indeed be a bit embarrassing.

After all, in the current situation, Eric’s advantage was the most optimistic.

He had more hope to land the project than Stanton Corporation.

If Hank told Eric about Clayton’s conditions, Eric would definitely not cooperate with him.

Hank felt torn for a while.

He had been in politics for so many years, so how could he not know of Clayton’s purpose?

This tactic was truly amazing!

The air was stagnant for a few minutes.

Clayton laughed and looked at Hank frankly. “Mr. Jensen, you don’t need to reply in a hurry. The choice is in your hands, so you can weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.”

He smiled, nodded his head, then turned to leave.

When Hank’s driver saw this, he trotted over and opened the car door for Hank.

“Mr. Jensen...”

Hank froze for a moment before getting into the car.

The conditions Clayton stated were so tempting that it was simply difficult to refuse.

Even if the higher-ups were to consider this, they would most probably agree to it.

The sky was a little dark.

Clayton saw that it was getting late. He still did not receive a message from Nicole, so he was wondering if Nicole had enough fun.

After getting into the car, he took out his phone to call her.

It rang a few times before the call was picked up.

“Mr. Sloan, come and pick up your wife! She’s drunk!” The one who spoke was Yvette, who also sounded drunk.

Clayton paused. His heart clenched at once, and he felt somewhat helpless.

He really did not know what to do with Nicole. She had a low alcohol tolerance, yet she liked to drink.

Clayton immediately drove to Yvette‘s house.

Lance was on a business trip for a project, so Yvette invited Nicole over to try Lance’s collection of good wine. The two ladies accidentally drank too much.

Clayton knocked on the door, and the maid opened the door.

“Mr. Sloan, Ms. Stanton is inside...” Clayton thanked her and went inside.

He saw Nicole lying on the sofa sleeping. Yvette held the phone to video call Lance while she rummaged for something.

Clayton wrinkled his brows and went over to pat Nicole’s shoulder. She had fallen asleep and showed no signs of waking up.

As soon as Yvette turned around and saw Clayton, she was surprised.

“Clayton, when did you come over? Why didn’t you tell me?”

Chapter 1837

Yvette touched her hair and suddenly realized something. “I forgot! Why am I at your house? I’ll leave now!”

With that, she grabbed her phone and headed out.

The person on the phone spoke in a suppressed tone. “Yvette, hurry back to your room and go to sleep!” Yvette froze in place when she heard that.

She looked around dumbfounded as she tried to recognize whose house she was in.

Clayton picked Nicole up with one hand.

“Ms. Quimbey, you should go in and rest. I’ll take Nicole with me.”

Luckily, they were drinking at home. They would have been in trouble if they were outside.

Yvette froze. “Oh, okay. Go back home then. Goodbye!”

A voice once again came through the phone that Yvette was holding.

“Yvette, hurry back to bed! If you drink so much again next time, watch how I’ll clean you up!”

Lance was ruthless and talkative. He was helpless over the video call.

The maid sent Clayton out and said, “Mr. Sloan, have someone make Ms. Stanton some hangover tea

before she sleeps. Otherwise, she’ll get a headache the next day. They didn’t drink much. They just mixed a lot of liquor. That‘s why they have such a reaction...”

Clayton thanked her and carried Nicole away.

The maid went back in and saw Yvette reaching for the wine in the liquor cabinet again. She was so frightened that she hurriedly went over to stop Yvette.

“Madam, you can’t drink anymore!”

Yvette’s phone was thrown onto the sofa at some point.

The man on the video call was going crazy.

“Mrs. Sally, please bring her to the bedroom. If she doesn’t obey, lock the door and leave her there alone.”

The maid promised Lance but did not dare to yank Yvette.

Yvette grew up pampered. Her skin was so delicate that the slightest touch could leave marks. Even if Lance said this, he would feel heartbroken if he sees it later.

The maid took a wine bottle while she carefully coaxed Yvette to go to the bedroom.

“Madam, let’s go to the bedroom to drink. I’ll clean up this place.”

Yvette followed the bottle in a daze. “Okay! Where’s Nicole? Where did she go?”

“Ms. Stanton went home. Her husband came to pick her up just now.”

The maid sighed as she spoke. Yvette had answered the call herself!

The good thing was that the bottle of wine in the maid’s hand was already empty. Yvette merely hugged the bottle and did not let go of it. She then lay on the bed and burped, then fell asleep in a daze.

Mrs. Sally wiped Yvette’s face with a warm wet towel and covered Yvette with a quilt before she carefully went out.

Yvette’s video call was still not disconnected yet.

Lance’s voice rang out.

“She’s asleep?”

Mrs. Sally went over. “Yes. Madam is still very well- behaved when she’s drunk. She just fell asleep.”

Lance laughed lightly and thought, ‘How is that well- behaved?’

After he laughed, Lance instructed Mrs. Sally. “Make her some hangover tea. Otherwise, she’ll get a stomachache. I’ll be back in a couple of days. Please keep an eye on her and don’t let her drink for the next few days.”

Mrs. Sally responded while her heart was pounding. She thought, ‘How could I even control Madam?’

Lance also thought of this afterward.

As soon as he hung up, he called the office.

“Is there nothing much to do in the office lately?”

For convenience, Lance picked one of his own people, Zane, to be Yvette’s assistant.

Zane was a good-looking person who was good at sweet-talking, so Yvette had no problems with this assistant.

Zane immediately replied, “Mr. Sheldon, I’m so busy that I didn’t get to go home last night. Didn’t you want C F Corporation’s proposal urgently?”

Lance paused. “I see that your boss, Ms. Quimbey, is very idIe. If you’re so busy, get Ms. Quimbey to help you. Otherwise, I won’t approve your overtime allowance.”

Zane said, “Mr. Sheldon, you mean... You want Ms. Quimbey to work overtime?”

Chapter 1838

Zane had to ask for clarification.

Before Lance went on a business trip, he clearly instructed Zane not to let the company’s affairs affect Yvette’s normal life as much as possible.

In other words, they should solve all the small and miscellaneous things.

What did Lance’s phone call mean now? Lance wanted Yvette to work overtime?

Zane was afraid that he got the wrong idea. That was why he wanted to clarify this.

Lance’s voice was dull across the phone.

“I just want you to find something for her to do. Ms. Quimbey couldn’t sleep well because I’m not around, so it’ll be better to divert her attention.”

Zane said, “Understood, Mr. Sheldon. Don’t worry. I promise to make it so that Ms. Quimbey falls asleep as soon as she gets home!”

So that’s what it is.

Unknowingly, Lance just showed off his affection for Yvette.

Lance let out a faint “mm” and hung up the phone in satisfaction.

Zane was truly quick-witted. He understood without much explanation from Lance.

The next day.

Yvette woke up with a stomachache. Luckily, Mrs. Sally prepared a cup of hangover tea, so Yvette felt much better after drinking it.

Originally, Yvette did not plan to go to work that day. She just wanted to lie in bed all day!

However, suddenly something came up in the office. Zane called Yvette repeatedly.

“Ms. Quimbey, there seems to be a problem with the proposal. Do you want to come to the office to take a look?”

“Ms. Quimbey, the lawyer said that we need to study the agreement. Why don’t you come over and participate?”

“Ms. Quimbey, we’re having lunch at noon, and we really hope that you can attend!”

“Ms. Quimbey...”

Yvette’s phone never stopped ringing.

After Yvette turned off her phone, Zane started to call the landline at her house. Yvette could not get a moment of peace.

Finally, Yvette unplugged the cable. Not long after, Zane called Mrs. Sally.

Mrs. Sally was torn as she went over to knock on the door. “Madam, the office said that something happened. If you don’t go over, they’ll just have to

come to the house to get your opinion.” Yvette went to get dressed reluctantly.

She never knew that her role in the company was so important that they could not function for a moment without her.

Thirty minutes later, Yvette arrived at the company with a cold face. She saw that everyone was just talking about what to eat for lunch.

How was this urgent?

ZanecameoutoftheofGceand waked over witha smile.

“Ms. Quimbey, you’re finally here!”

Yvette pursed her lips. “I thought that the company would go bankrupt if I didn’t come. Lance never told me that being the vice president was so important. It looks like my meager salary is really not enough!”

Zane heard the reluctance in Yvette’s tone and hastily spoke.

“Ms. Quimbey, since Mr. Sheldon is not around, everyone considers you as the company’s backbone. You’re also the president’s wife, so who else could we look for if not you?”

Yvette snorted coldly and walked toward the office.

“I ordered coffee for you all. Go down and get it when it arrives later.”

“Thank you, Ms. Quimbey!”

When Zane followed Yvette, he carried a pile of documents with him. Yvette saw it and froze. “What’s all this?”

“This is CF Corporation’s project information. Mr. Sheldon needs the initial quote that they gave urgently, but I still have a lot of things on hand. Can you please...”

Yvette looked at Zane in shock. “Hey! I’m the vice president!”

“I know...” Zane felt embarrassed as he scratched his head and smiled. “But these are confidential, so I’m worried that others will leak the information. If it’s leaked, Mr. Sheldon’s efforts will go to waste!”

Yvette gulped speechlessly. So, the importance of this project was that she had to look through this stack of documents?

Yvette wrinkled her eyebrows. She looked extremely upset. ‘then will I need to do such work in the future?”

Zane pursed his lips and smiled shyly.

“Ms. Quimbey, Mr. Sheldon took a lot of people from the project department with him. If he left some people behind, it wouldn’t have been like this.”

Chapter 1839

Seeing Yvette’s reluctant expression, Zane coughed and spoke.

“If you really don’t want to do it, I can do it after I finish my work, but it’ll have to wait until tomorrow. I’m afraid it would delay the schedule...”

Yvette rolled her eyes when she saw his torn expression.

As a vice president, Yvette had to use her precious time to do these things that even an ordinary employee would not do.

Hmph!

“Fine, just put it here. I’ll look for it.”

Yvette was really helpless, but she had no other way. She would tell Lance about this when he comes back.

Zane’s eyes lit up. “Really? Thank you, Ms. Quimbey! No wonder Mr. Sheldon said that we can come to you if there’s anything. You’re the best!”

The corner of Yvette’s mouth twitched. “Cut the crap and get out.”

Zane nodded and disappeared in the blink of an eye. Yvette was speechless.

Zane went out and sent a message to Lance.

[Mr. Sheldon, if Ms. Quimbey complains to you, I hope that you won’t deduct my salary!]

After all, Zane was just following orders. Lance replied. [I’ll give you an increment!] Zane typed. [Thank you, boss!]

Stanton Mansion.

Nicole was still a little drowsy from her sleep. When she woke up, Clayton had already gone to the office.

She forgot how she got home. All she remembered was drinking a lot of wine with Yvette, but she forgot everything that happened later.

Little Chatty slept all day and night. She even fell asleep in Floyd’s arms when he carried her.

Nicole went over to carry her daughter, but Floyd refused to let go. He even looked at Nicole in disdain and told her not to disturb the baby.

Nicole pouted and said, “Dad, Chatty doesn’t have a name yet!”

Floyd looked at his daughter. “I already gave her a nickname, so ask Clayton to come up with her full name. Otherwise, he’s too uninvolved as her father.”

Nicole nodded. She did not care who would name her baby, as long as it sounds nice.

Mr. Anderson made a bowl of soup for Nicole and brought it over.

“Miss, eat something so that your stomach will feel better.”

Nicole touched her stomach. She did feel hungry, so she smiled and nodded.

“I want some oatmeal.”

Mr. Anderson smiled. “I’ve already prepared it.”

Floyd let out a light laugh. “Go ahead then. Are you still going out later?”

Nicole hesitated.

Floyd continued, “Michael’s on school break, so I plan to let him stay here. It’ll also be more convenient to take care of him.”

Nicole paused. “Is he Clayton’s eldest son?” “He‘s also yours.”

Floyd was helpless.

Nicole did not even remember Clayton, so she certainly did not remember Lil Michael.

However, they had already explained everything to Nicole in case she misunderstood.

On paper, Lil Michael and Clayton were father and son, but biologically, Clayton was Michael’s uncle.

Lil Michael was still young, so they did not tell him about this yet.

Nicole already knew about this and felt heartbroken for this child.

“Sure. I’ll go pick him up then?”

“Can you recognize him?” “Doesn’t he recognize me?” Nicole spoke casually.

Anyway, they were family, so Nicole did not need to worry that she would not recognize him. It’s not like they never met each other.

Floyd nodded. “Get Mr. Anderson to go with you then. I’m worried that you won’t be able to find him.”

“Okay.”

Nicole certainly had no problem with it.

After a simple meal, Nicole went over to carry Lil Chatty and went upstairs to get changed.

She wore a beige dress which matched her skin tone. When she took her small purse downstairs, she saw that the butler was already waiting for her.

“Miss, shall we go?” Nicole nodded.

The car was parked in front of the school.

Nicole looked at the time. There were still five minutes left before school ended.

Just in time, Clayton sent Nicole a message. [What are you doing?]

Nicole thought about it and sent over a picture of the school that she just took.

Chapter 1840

Clayton replied. [Are you choosing a school for our baby girl so soon?]

Nicole could not help but laugh lightly. Clayton thought that she was choosing a school for Chatty?

[I came here to pick Lil Michael up from school. Isn’t he on school break?]

Clayton replied. [Is he?] Nicole was speechless. [... ]

Did Clayton really live with his son all these years?

Clayton felt a little guilty. At that moment, he no longer had the mood to work. When he looked at the time, it was already too late for him to rush over.

He then called the nanny who took care of Lil Michael.

“Is Michael on school holiday?”

The nanny froze for a moment. “Yes, his school break starts tomorrow.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

The nanny replied, “Sir, I sent you a message last night, and you replied ‘Got it’. ”

Did Clayton just reply without taking it seriously?

Originally, they thought that Clayton would neglect Lil Michael after having his own baby. Now that Clayton has a daughter, won’t Lil Michael be even more pathetic?

Clayton was silent for a moment before he said, “Right, I saw it. I was too busy and forgot about it.”

After saying that, he hung up the phone.

When it was time to get off work, Clayton quickly took his jacket and left without delay.

Michael was never a calculative kid. This time, Clayton did neglect his son. Five minutes later.

Nicole saw the curly-haired boy that was almost as tall as her waist. He was so fair, tender, and good-looking. At a glance, he obviously looked mixed. She could not wait to pinch his little face.

“Pretty Lady!”

Lil Michael ran over to Nicole joyfully and hugged her tightly.

Nicole blinked. She was quite nervous earlier in the car as she did not know what to say first.

Now, it seems like she worried for nothing. This kid was naturally friendly.

Michael hugged Nicole for a long time and refused to let go. He looked up at her with his turquoise blue eyes that were so pure and clear, like a clean lake.

“Pretty Lady, did you come here just to pick me up?” Nicole smiled and nodded. “Of course! Do you want to stay at my house for the holidays?”

“Sure! I can live anywhere as long as you’re there, Pretty Lady!”

His little mouth was as sweet as honey.

Nicole smiled as the butler came over to get Michael’s things.

“Little Young Master, do you want to get in the car?” Lil Michael nodded excitedly. “Thank you, Mr. Anderson!”

Then, Lil Michael went in and sat with Nicole. Nicole could feel that this kid liked her a lot.

It was a genuine kind of affection.

She liked him too.

Lil Michael took a book out of his bag. “This is for you, Pretty Lady. It’s a gift from me...”

Nicole froze for a moment and looked at a science and technology book in French that was thicker than her fist.

It was all in French.

She blinked and took it over with a smile. “Thank you.”

Nicole thought that she would just take it as bedtime reading.

“Open it up and take a look.”

Lil Michael looked at her expectantly.

Nicole paused and opened it in front of him.

She saw that the inside of the book had a shallow circular hole with a bouquet of dried flowers.

The bouquet was beautiful and common, but it was surprising that the color was still bright and undiminished, as if it had retained the freshness of spring. It was made even more exquisite than those from a professional florist.

“Did you make this?” Nicole was amazed.

Lil Michael proudly raised his chin. “Of course! I wanted to give this to you during my last break, but Daddy enrolled me into a summer camp in France, so I had no choice but to wait until now.”

He pouted his small lips and looked haughty. Nicole carefully put it away.

“Thank you. I like it very much!”