?Chapter 194:


    Steven swirled his beer, lost in thought over the way William had gone out of his way for Ste earlier that day.


    After a pause, he set his half-empty beer on the table and leaned in, ncing sideways at William, who sat still and silent, his expression unreadable. “William, tell me honestly—what do you actually think about Sylvia? Don’t tell me you’re going back on your word and want to chase after her now.”


    He recalled William’s previous insistence that his interest in Sylvia was purely professional, nothing more.


    William shot Steven an unimpressed nce. “You’re tipsy already? That was barely your second drink.”


    Unfazed, Steven pressed on. “So, does that mean you’re not into her at all?”


    William answered with a slow, sardonic smirk, holding Steven’s gaze for a long moment.


    He didn’t say a word, but the silence was louder than any answer.


    Steven ducked his head, reaching for another bottle. “Right, right—I forgot. You’re still chasing after your first love. Guess Sylvia’s not your type. Any luck finding hertely?”


    William’s gaze turned stormy, shadows flickering across his face. “I’ve picked up a few leads. Still working to confirm them.”


    Years of searching had brought him nothing but disappointment, buttely, he’d finally glimpsed a sliver of hope—even if it was still just out of reach.


    Steven perked up, his curiosity piqued. “That’s something, at least. Are you free this weekend? Maybe give me some pointers on how to actually impress a girl? Or at least get her to smile at me?”


    William gave a sharpugh, already pushing his chair back. “You’re out of your mind. I’m busy.”


    Undeterred, Steven grabbed his sleeve, a desperate grin on his lips. “Come on, man, aren’t we supposed to be best friends? Sylvia’sing in this weekend to sign the contract. Can’t you spare an hour for my future happiness?”


    Neb was based in Briset, so every agreement had to be approved and signed by Ste in Choria before being forwarded there. William paused briefly. “Understood.” He turned and walked off.


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    Steven sulked. William’s attitude was truly unbearable.


    That weekend, Ste arrived at the designated restaurant to finalize the project details with Steven.


    As she entered, she spotted William seated next to him.


    The sight gave her a small jolt, and her guard immediately went up. Was he still annoyed about theirst interaction? Had hee today just to keep an eye on her?


    She walked over and took a seat. “Did you bring the contract with you, Mr. Harrison?”


    Steven nodded. “Yes, I did. Would you like something to drink, Ms. Gilbert?”


    Before she could respond, William, still seated beside Steven, cut in with a low voice, “Go grab three coffees. We’ll both take ours ck.” Though she saw him as someone used to giving orders, he was still technically her superior. So she stood up and headed out to get them.


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