At that moment, Daniel had felt something was off.


    After all, this contract was supposed to be under their control–so why did it now depend on Aurora’s decision?


    If word got out, wouldn’t it be a joke?


    The moment he voiced his concern, the person on the other end of the line snapped harshly, “What, are you questioning our boss‘ orders?”


    Hearing that, Daniel instantly fell silent.


    He dared not say another word.


    As for Joseph, he didn’t even bring him up again.


    It was just bad luck for him.


    Since the higher–ups had spoken, it was no longer Daniel’s concern.


    A pity about the “gift” Joseph had sent over, but Daniel figured he’d just have to look for opportunities elsewhereter.


    Clicking his tongue, he drove back to the office.


    Meanwhile, on Aurora’s side, even after getting into the car she still felt as if it weren’t real.


    Her eyes were full of doubt as she turned to Ian. “Do you really think we’ve secured the deal?”


    “Of course, Miss Aurora. What are you still worried about?”


    Driving, Ian nced at her through the rearview mirror.


    He saw her delicate face filled with uncertainty, even tinged with curiosity.


    He couldn’t help but offer reassurance. “Miss Aurora, don’t overthink it. Either way, this is good for us. Since we’ve got Mr. Daniel agreeing to the deal, all that’s left is to draft the contract and sign.”


    Hearing that, Aurora’s thoughts finally cleared.


    There was nothing left to agonize over.


    After all, the profits ahead were solid and real.


    Rather than dwelling on it, it was better to focus on when the contract would actually be signed.


    A smile bloomed again on Aurora’s face.


    With the breeze lifting her hair, her mood lightened as well.


    “You’re right,” she said with a hint of cheer. “Ian, your attitudetely has been <b>pretty </b>good. Keep it up.


    Encouraged by her praise,n drove with even more energy. “Don’t worry, Miss Aurora, I’ll keep it up. Besides, being by your side, I’ve learned all this from you.”


    Aurora teased, “Listen to you, sweet–talking. You’ve even learned to joke around now.”


    The car filled with easyughter and warmth.


    Leaning back against the seat, Aurora recalled what Lucas had told her yesterday-“Everything will go smoothly.” Could it really have been just a coincidence?


    Her expression grew more restrained, unease creeping in.


    After all, Lucas had kept asking about this project yesterday.


    And today, Daniel, supposedly so difficult to handle, had caved so easily?


    Almost as if he had been eager to please.


    That thought nted a thorn in Aurora’s heart.


    She didn’t say a word, only kept it to herself.


    That evening, when she returned home, Lucas was not there.


    The sight of the darkened living room felt strangely unsettling.


    Before, every time she came home, Lucas had always prepared everything for her.


    Habit, she realized, was a frightening thing.


    She knew this truth well enough.


    But Lucas was the kind of man who felt like a pair of steady hands, quietly pulling the strings behind the


    scenes.


    And in the end, she could only watch herself fall deeper and deeper.


    She had to admit, Lucas was a master strategist.


    In all the time she’d spent with him, she had seen it clearly.


    Pressing her lips together, Aurora walked alone into the kitchen<b>, </b>deciding to cook herself a simple te of pasta to fill her stomach.