Chapter 157
Chapter 157:
“Come in p>
The voice emanating from within carried a digital tone, evidently altered by technology.
With due respect, Antonio responded, “Yes,” and then ushered Helena through the door with a welcoming gesture.
Expressing her gratitude, Helena stepped through the threshold only to observe that the CEO was still masked.
How intriguing.
Although curiosity tugged at her, she kept her expression composed out of courtesy and managed a respectful smile. “I’m so sorry for showing up during your work time. I p>
“What is the purpose of your visit?” The CEO cut her off before she could continue with her courtesies. His voice, still mechanically distorted, masked any hint of his true tone.
After pausing briefly, Helena dispensed with the formalities and got straight to the point. “I am here to request that you withdraw from the redevelopment project p>
A flicker of surprise stirred in the eyes hidden behind the mask.
Worried she might have been too blunt, Helena quickly explained, “It’s a bold proposal, I know, and I mean no disrespect. Actually, this could be advantageous for Star Wish Investments. I’ve prepared a detailed report to outline my points—please, consider reviewing it p>
She then presented the evaluation report she had meticulously prepared, offering it with both hands.
Alden accepted the document.
He flipped open the file and scanned its contents at a brisk pace.
As he reviewed the contents, Helena summarized her argument. “The redevelopment costs are high, and with the foundational work already in place, altering plans now would be both challenging and costly. Additionally, your firm’s recent investments have been predominantly in emerging technologies and the film industry. Undertaking a physical redevelopment project like this doesn’t align well with your typical activities, and the prospective returns are comparatively low. Thus, withdrawing from this project would likely be in your company’s best interest p>
By the time Helena concluded, Alden had thoroughly absorbed the report. The document was comprehensive and well-argued, presenting several compelling alternatives. For someone not embedded in the investment sector, the quality of this report was exceptional.
Alden regarded his wife anew, admiration evident in his expression. Helena had demonstrated a significant skill for business.
𝖂𝖍𝖊𝖗𝖊 𝖎𝖙 𝖘𝖙𝖆𝖗𝖙𝖊𝖉:
“Ms. Ellis, your recommendation is sensible,” Alden said, placing the report aside and looking intently at Helena. “However, we share no personal connection. I find it hard to believe your guidance is solely intended to enhance Star Wish Investments’ profitability p>
Helena admitted openly, “You’re right. The truth is, this project is very dear to someone close to me. I’m here because I want him to be able to continue with it p>
“Someone close to you?” Emotions stirred in Alden’s heart as he asked gently, “Is this person someone you’re in love with p>
Color rose in Helena’s cheeks. Bound by her promise to keep her marriage confidential, she replied ambiguously, “That… isn’t the point. He’s very important to me, and so is this project to him. I really hope you’ll consider stepping back from it p>
“Ms. Ellis, while I admire your determination and professionalism, the only assurance I can provide is to proceed as initially planned with this project.” Alden cut her off, rising and closing the distance between them across the desk. “That should at least bring some peace to your dear one, shouldn’t it p>
The space between them narrowed. Behind his mask, his eyes seemed to pull Helena closer—steady, compelling, somehow familiar.
Suddenly, a memory flashed through her mind—the rose field, and the young boy who ran with her among the flowers.
“Why… why did you send me those yellow roses?” Helena asked suddenly, unable to stop herself. “Have we… have we met before p>
Alden remained silent, his intense gaze enveloping her.
“Has anyone else ever gifted you yellow roses?” he asked softly, his voice soothing.
The sensation was mesmerizing.
Helena drifted into fragmented memories.
Yellow roses…
A young boy…
It felt as though Valeria’s hypnotic words were urging her to dredge up buried memories.
Yet, the obstacle before her was the mask covering the man’s face. Helena’s hand moved slowly toward the black mask, her fingers almost grazing it—
At that moment, her phone rang.
Jolted back to the present, she checked her phone. It was a message from Dario, offering her a lift back to the TV station. Helena responded without hesitation, “Sure p>
After putting away her phone, Helena faced the man who had resumed his seat, suddenly aware of how close she had been to overstepping a boundary.