?Chapter 1698:


    While they had a meal together, Ethan suggested, “I’m heading to Brindleton soon—there might be a jade mine. Want to join?”


    Dustinughed. “I know about jade, but not mining. But I can connect you with my dad’s friend, a retired professor in his sixties. He’s the expert you need.”


    As they finalized the n, Ethan’s phone buzzed—it was Brenna calling.


    Beaming with enthusiasm, Brenna was waiting in Ethan’s office. “I just had lunch with Darwin, and he mentioned a potential jade mine in Brindleton, suggesting I go there and take a look.”


    Ethan, caught off guard, asked, “How does he know that?”


    Brenna exined, “Brindleton’s jade mines were first mined over a hundred years ago. After so many years of relentless digging, the supply of quality jade dried up, and most of the mines have been abandonedtely. But just a few days ago, at a gathering for jade dealers, there was a buzz. Several traders said they’d gotten new jade from Brindleton. That led to rumors of a new mine being discovered there. Once Darwin heard the news, he suggested I look into it.”


    Ethan gave a lightugh. “That’s great timing. Let’s go and check it out together; I’ll bring a friend along for the ride.”


    After a quick chat, he hung up.


    Dustin perked up with interest. “Count me in. Maybe I’ll get lucky and find something good.”


    “Alright then. We’ll stop by the retired professor’s ce first,” Ethan replied.


    Dustin arranged for his father to join him, and together, they visited the professor, who happily agreed to join the trip. He brought along his top student, Aikin Hussain, who ran apany specializing in mineral exploration.


    Ethan set aside three days for everyone to get ready. After three days, he booked a helicopter to fly himself and Brenna straight to Brindleton Girls’ School.


    Everyone else hit the road by car, setting off before them. Given Brindleton’s distance from the city, Ethan and Brenna got an early start, taking off a little after six in the morning.


    The convoy was already on their way by two.


    By eight, the helicopter touched down right on the grounds of Brindleton Girls’ School.


    Ainslie stood at the front of a weing group of teachers and students, with Elsa waiting among them.


    Instead of dressing up, Ethan and Brenna kept it casual, sneakers on their feet, luggage in hand.


    Ethan, youthful and striking, carried himself with a charisma that could put movie stars to shame. Brenna’s good looks and intelligence matched his energy, and as they stepped out together, cheers and excited chatter broke out among the students and faculty.


    Ethan offered Brenna his hand, helping her down from the helicopter. Their close connection was obvious, and plenty of high school girls eyed them with a mix of admiration and envy.


    Ainslie came forward to greet them with a handshake. “Wee, Mr. Mitchell! Wee, Ms. Harper!”


    Elsa had introduced her son and Brenna to Ainslie before. When she talked about Brenna, she chose to highlight Brenna’s rtionship with Ethan before mentioning her career. Ainslie, who had always held aplished women in high regard, saw Brenna differently than Elsa and addressed her with genuine respect.


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