The construction site at Splendor Estate had just recently started, and supervision was extremely strict. How could something have suddenly gone wrong?
Callie immediately frowned. “Is it serious?”
“They’re in the middle of emergency treatment; we don’t know the extent yet. I need to go to the hospital to keep an eye on things,” Nelson said, seemingly having opened a window as the wind rushed in, making his voice a bit loud. “You don’t need to worry, just make sure you get back to Paucaster Villa Complex safely.”
The snowy and slippery roads made him genuinely concerned for her.
Callie could only respond, “Alright.”
The driver arrived shortly and asked, “Ma’am, are we heading back to Paucaster Villa Complex?”
She had just opened her phone and saw Jett’s message with the restaurant location. Remembering his recent enthusiastic invitation, she didn’t want to disappoint him. After thinking for a moment, she said, “Not yet.”
Winter was perfect for hotpot, with a group gathered around a steaming table, and beers lined up nearby.
“Jett, congratulations on your promotion. Keep up the good work,” Callie said with a smile, raising her glass.
Jett quickly clinked glasses with her and expressed his gratitude.
After a few rounds of drinks, everyone relaxed and started gossiping about the department.
“In my opinion, the news of the year has to be about Skye. The Oconnor Group forbids office romances, yet she dared to get involved with Mr. Russell. She’s really bold.”
Someone said this and then nudged Callie with their elbow. “Miss Marsh, you got lucky. If Skye hadn’t taken the wrong path, you wouldn’t have become the director.”
“Who says otherwise? Two directors fell in succession; it seems like this position was destined for her.”
The words were harsh and clearly mocking. Litzy couldn’t hold back and wanted to retort, but Callie stopped her. “Luck does play a part, but opportunities are always for those who are prepared, right?”
The two looked at each other and said no more, though they were still dissatisfied.
Holding a high position always attracted discontent. Callie understood this and had no interest in debating right or wrong with them. Colleagues would always be colleagues and could never truly become friends who understood you.
Sensing the tense atmosphere, Jett interjected, “So Oconnor Group forbids office romances…”
Someone chuckled, and the topic shifted as they began explaining the rules to him.
Callie was distracted, glancing at her phone. She wanted to message Nelson to ask about the situation but figured he wouldn’t be in the mood to reply right now, so she didn’t send it.
Litzy noticed. “What’s up with you today? Something on your mind?”
“Nothing much, just not a fan of gatherings,” Callie replied casually. Just then, a waiter brought over a large bowl of sweet dumplings.
“Excuse me, today is Ylosea’s first snowfall and also the Winter Solstice. Our restaurant is offering everyone a complimentary bowl of sweet dumplings for good luck.”
Ylosea was in the south where eating sweet dumplings on Winter Solstice was customary. Everyone liked this good omen and quickly divided the dumplings.
Callie looked outside at the heavy snowfall. Across the street were residential buildings, and at this hour, few people were out. Just then, someone pushed open the door-a thinly dressed woman stepped out first, followed by a disheveled man who looked very familiar.
Jaquan!?
What was he doing here?
Callie stared intently. Perhaps because she was so focused, Jaquan happened to look up and meet her gaze.
“What are you looking at so intently?” Litzy asked, following her gaze in confusion.
Callie snapped back to reality. “Oh, nothing. Just saw an acquaintance.”