“… It’s not that I fear encountering people, it’s the potential speculation about our relationship that concerns me.”
Ever since Ulric immersed himself in the business world and gained recognition, he had managed to steer clear of any scandals. The only topic that might give rise to gossip was his association with Sirena.
However, if news were to circulate about him and a female assistant being intimately involved during a business trip, it would create unnecessary trouble.
Nonetheless, with Cedric accompanying her, Rosalind knew she wouldn’t be far from Ulric’s side and wouldn’t risk getting lost in Jingtown.
“Our relationship is not open for speculation,” Ulric stated firmly.
Their bond remained undisclosed, but as a legally married couple, what rumors should they fear?
However, Rosalind interpreted his words differently.
Ulric’s deliberate closeness to her, particularly in public… Could it be his way of provoking Sirena after another argument?
She increasingly resented being confined to the role of a mere tool.
But she couldn’t escape it, she had to be prepared at all times.
After all, Ulric sought her out, spent money, and made efforts for this very purpose!
Rosalind remained silent and turned her gaze toward the passing scenery outside the car window.
It had been five or six years since her last visit. Back then, she hastily terminated her rental lease and hurried to Northville City with her mother for medical treatment.
Jingtown had undergone rapid development since then, with towering buildings dotting the landscape. The rise of the IT industry had led to the establishment of numerous tech villages in the area. The government fully supported economic growth and foreign investments, making foreigners a common sight on the streets.
When their car arrived at SNS Company, all attention remained focused on Ulric.
Deliberately trailing behind Cedric, Rosalind whispered, “Before our arrival, I researched the information and photos of SNS shareholders. The man in the gray suit trailing their president is Dwight Graves. He has changed his shares in SNS three times. It appears he initially wanted to divest from SNS but reconsidered after witnessing Ulric’s interest.”
The timing seemed to align as well.
Cedric glanced over, acknowledging her suggestion, “Your analysis holds merit. We should cross-reference this with the changes in business registration and consult with our lawyers and accountants.”
“Understood.”
Due to Ulric’s personal visit to SNS, his departure was hindered by the attention surrounding him.
By the afternoon, Cedric felt drained and beckoned Rosalind over. “You’re from Jingtown. Are there any good eateries nearby?”
“Huh? Yes, there are… But don’t you need to accompany Ulric-Mr. Walters-for social engagements? We discussed going to a hotel for a meeting earlier.”
“Mr. Walters brought a PR secretary today. Not only will the people from SNS be there, but even representatives from the Environmental Protection Bureau will attend. It wouldn’t be appropriate for me to tag along.”
Rosalind realized, “I see. In that case, let me treat you to some local rice noodles. We can finish in half an hour without causing any delays.”
Cedric raised an eyebrow, content with the suggestion. “There’s a reason Mr. Walters values you.”
An observant assistant like Rosalind seemed somewhat wasted in a subsidiary like Prosperity Holdings.
Rosalind narrowed her eyes and smiled, realizing that Cedric wasn’t as rigid as she initially thought. In fact, he smiled much more frequently than Ulric.
After checking for nearby rice noodle shops on her phone, they hailed a taxi and headed straight there.
As soon as they sat down and placed their orders, Rosalind’s gaze fell upon a figure that seemed familiar yet unfamiliar.
Kennard Ruell.
Her father.