Chapter 332
Chapter 332:
The old fox wasn’t one to be easily deceived.
“Well, that’s a relief,” Yelena said, her mind already picturing Leonel’s reaction when Austin made his move. Leonel would definitely be taken aback.
Austin wasn’t one to let things go, especially not when it came to Leonel. He planned to hit hard and make sure there was no room left for retaliation once Leonel thought he’d won.
“Hey, Yelena,” Austin said, his tone warm and earnest. “Next weekend is the Barton Group’s 50th anniversary celebration. Would you do me the honor of being my date p>
Yelena froze at his words. “Me?” she asked, pointing at herself, disbelief etched across her face.
Austin chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Yes, you. Why do you look so shocked? Don’t tell me you don’t want to go,” he said, though a subtle note of disappointment crept into his voice.
“It’s not that,” Yelena replied, shifting uncomfortably. “It’s just… I don’t really do these kinds of events. I’m not exactly the gala type p>
Her hesitation was evident. She and Austin were friends—good friends—but this felt different.
The Barton Group’s celebration wasn’t just another party; it was a glittering spectacle where the city’s elite mingled, judged, and postured. She could already feel the weight of their stares, their whispers. What if she said or did the wrong thing and embarrassed Austin?
Social events like this had always been her least favorite. Yelena despised the masks people wore, the insincere laughter, and the endless string of compliments that rang hollow.
These gatherings felt like an elaborate play, and she had no interest in acting a part.
gⲁ𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘀.𝖼0𝗺, 𝓂𝒶𝓇𝒸𝒽 𝒽𝒾𝒹𝑒𝓃 𝗈𝗇
Still, Austin’s invitation lingered in the air, refusing to be ignored.
This wasn’t just any invitation—it came from Austin, the golden boy of Kheley.
However, his presence alone could command a room, and with him, she would undoubtedly share that spotlight—something Yelena would gladly avoid if she could help it.
Austin seemed to notice her reluctance. His expression softened as he leaned slightly closer. “Hey, no pressure, okay? I don’t have a date, and I asked you because I want you there, Yelena. Not anyone else. Just you p>
His words, simple and genuine, pierced through her uncertainty.
“Alright, just send me the time and location,” Yelena said, finally agreeing with a casual shrug.
She told herself that it wasn’t a big deal—just doing Austin a favor.
“Perfect. I’ll take care of everything,” Austin replied with a satisfied smile. He knew Yelena had a soft spot, and her kind-hearted nature made it difficult for her to refuse. Sensing the awkwardness of being alone in the room with him, Yelena made a little small talk before excusing herself. Austin didn’t stop her.
After all, they were still in a hospital, and her lingering too long wasn’t ideal.
Besides, there was another layer to his caution—Leonel’s people might still be lurking in the shadows, keeping tabs.
Austin leaned back, a calculated smirk tugging at his lips. The next act of this game was about to unfold.
Domenic had just informed him that Leonel was already moving aggressively, rallying senior executives for his bid to become the new chairman.
The audacity amused Austin.
Leonel’s impatience would only make it easier to uncover who was truly loyal within the company and who was opportunistic.
Meanwhile, Yelena stepped out of the hospital, glancing at her watch.
It was later than she realized, and she needed to get home before her mother started to worry.