?Chapter 1309:


    Though Noah’s reply sounded courteous, his true message was crystal clear: he had no intention of letting Alex linger. Alex’s sudden appearance reeked of hidden motives. Whether he sought to pry or simply draw Sadie’s attention, Noah saw through him. No matter his aim, Noah wouldn’t give him the chance to seed.


    A flicker of irritation crossed Alex’s eyes before he managed to keep his smile soft and charming. Just as he prepared to respond, another voice interrupted.


    “Mr. Wall, your reputation truly speaks for itself. Now that I’ve met you, I can say it’spletely deserved.”


    A thin, wiry man had slipped into their circle as if from thin air. His lips curved upward in a polite smile, but his eyes glinted with quiet cunning. Noah studied the neer, trying to ce the face. He couldn’t recall meeting him before, yet that eager grin seemed forced—hiding its own motives.


    Alex turned as well, curiosity momentarily piqued. Nothing about the stranger’s appearance stood out, yet something oddly familiar tugged at his memory—then slipped away before he could grasp it.


    Deciding the neer was of little consequence, Alex dismissed him without acknowledgment and redirected his attention back to Noah and Sadie. Without wasting time on introductions, he simply walked away.


    Humphrey watched Alex’s retreat, his smile widening beneath a chill in his eyes. “Alex,” he muttered to himself, “the real show hasn’t even started yet.” ns he had set in motion were finally gaining momentum.


    Alex, always so sure of himself, would soon discover just how quickly fortunes could change.


    Before long, the grand opening began. Sadie stepped forward as chairwoman of Wall Group and the face of the event, delivering a speech that bnced poise with inspiration. Brilliant lights bathed her in a soft glow, her white suit radiating crisp authority. Thunderous apuse greeted her as she finished.


    With the formalitiesplete, guests began to circte and mingle. Welldressed executives gathered in animated clusters, the room alive withughter, clinking sses, and sharp business talk.


    Samuel hurried over to Sadie, a folder in hand and concern etched on his face. “Ms. Hudson, I need your attention on this. It’s about our raw material supply for next quarter. Grand Building Materials, who we’ve worked with for years, pulled out just a few days ago. If we don’t find other suppliers soon, production wille to a halt.”


    Sadie scanned the paperwork, her mind racing through possible scenarios. Grand Building Materials had never dropped the ball like this—especially not when the stakes were so high. Still, she maintained herposure and issued clear instructions. “Samuel, take the lead on this. Develop several backup options and report back to me immediately.”


    Samuel gave a curt nod and hurried off to begin the task.


    L?t?st ch?pt?rs in g?lnovels.c?m


    Sadie’s gaze drifted over the crowd as she hoped to spot Noah among the guests. While she had stood on stage, she had felt his encouragement, and now she longed for thefort of his side.


    Before she could weave through the throng, a young server approached with a polite bow. “Ms. Hudson, a gentleman outside is asking to speak with you.”


    Sadie paused, considering the surprising message. Someone waiting for her?


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