?Chapter 313:


    As she stepped out of the elevator, she spotted William just as he was unlocking his own door across the hall.


    A flicker of surprise crossed her face as she queried, “Who’s hosting the banquet tonight?”


    She needed to know the host’s name—whether she was expected to show up with a carefully chosen gift or risk looking thoughtless.


    “Marlowe Cortez,” William answered. “She’s one of the leading architects at Achury. Have you heard of her?”


    Ste’s head bobbed instantly. Marlowe Cortez was a star in the world of architecture; just getting her to consult on a project could cost a fortune.


    Ste had pored over Marlowe’s sleek, iconic buildings in countless glossy magazines—her work was celebrated on the international stage.


    William went on, “It’s Marlowe’s birthday, and she’s back in town to visit her boyfriend. I figured I’d bring you along.”


    There was every chance that Neb would partner with Marlowe someday, and William clearly wanted Ste to get a head start, to make a strong impression.


    Curiosity sparked in Ste’s eyes. “So, do you know Marlowe or her boyfriend personally?”


    It didn’t make sense for a renowned architect like Marlowe to throw her doors open to just anyone—surely the guest list was limited to her closest friends and key business contacts. Ste found herself wondering just how William hadnded an invite.


    William didn’t hesitate to reveal his ties to Marlowe. “I know them both. Marlowe, her boyfriend, and I went to the same high school—we were practically inseparable.”


    William, Steven, and Marlowe’s boyfriend, Anson Mitchell, had grown up together. Back then, Anson had spent an entire semester determinedly chasing after Marlowe, the school’s undisputed beauty, before she finally agreed to date him. After that, Marlowe became a constant presence in their little circle, and the four of them quickly grew close.


    Life eventually pulled them in different directions. Anson and Marlowe spent most of their years abroad, while William and Steven forged their own paths at home. Despite the distance, the bonds they’d formed never faded.


    As Ste listened, she couldn’t help but feel a ripple of admiration. It struck her that everyone in William’s world seemed exceptional—no one around him was remotely average.


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    William’s gaze flickered over Ste’s attire, the corners of his mouth twitching in faint disapproval. “Let’s stop by a boutique on the way. I’ll help you pick out a dress and some jewelry.”


    Arching an eyebrow, she remarked, “That’s unnecessary. I’ve already got a new dress that’ll do just fine.”


    She’d recently bought the gown for moments exactly like this, and atst, she had a reason to wear it. Jewelry wasn’t a concern either. She still had Yusip Twasto’stest collection tucked away—hot off the showcase, only three days since its debut.


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